The short answer: a slightly curved board usually flattens with gentle pressure. Lay it between two flat boards, stack weight on top, and leave it for a day. Never use heat to flatten a board, because that can melt the pegs.
New boards often arrive with a slight curve from the way they are packed and stored. A little bow is normal. The problem starts when the curve is strong enough to rock the board on the table, because beads roll away and patterns sit crooked.
How to flatten a board
- Wash the board with warm, not hot, water and dry it flat on a towel. Warm water relaxes the plastic slightly.
- Sandwich the board between two flat boards, like cutting boards.
- Place heavy books or a stack of magazines on top and leave it for 24 hours.
- Test it on a flat table. If it still rocks, repeat the pressing step once.
How to keep boards flat
- Store them flat, stacked with something flat on top, not standing on edge.
- Keep them cool: a hot car or a sunny window will soften and warp them.
- Never iron them: the iron melts the pegs and ruins the board.
If a board will not flatten after pressing, it is simpler to replace it than to fight it. Boards are inexpensive, and a flat board makes every project easier. The pegboard size guide lists the sizes worth keeping on hand, and our shop carries replacements. When your board is flat and ready, our beginner patterns are sized for a single standard board.