Choosing the Right Pinboard Surface:
A Guide to Different Materials and Their Uses
February 2025
Introduction
Selecting the perfect pinboard surface can make a significant difference in both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re designing a workspace, classroom, or home office, understanding the different materials available ensures you choose the right option for durability, usability, and style. This guide explores four popular pinboard surfaces—standard cork, Suzette (fabric-wrapped corkboard), Krommenie (self-healing surface), and Smooth Velour or Vertiface®—and their ideal applications.
Standard Cork: The Classic and Reliable Choice
Overview:
Standard cork is a natural, budget-friendly material widely used in homes, schools, and offices. Its light brown appearance provides a traditional, functional backdrop for pinning notes, memos, and artwork.
Best For:
- Classrooms – Simple, effective, and cost-efficient
- Home Offices – A practical solution for personal organisation
- Casual Office Spaces – Great for informal brainstorming areas
Pros:
Affordable and widely available
Easy to install and use
Naturally antimicrobial and sustainable
Cons:
Susceptible to visible pinholes over time
Limited design options compared to other materials
Suzette – Fabric-Wrapped Corkboard: A Soft & Stylish Upgrade
Overview:
Suzette pinboards offer a fabric-covered cork surface, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal. This luxurious alternative to standard corkboards is available in various fabric colours and textures, making it a customisable and elegant choice.
Best For:
- Corporate Offices – Adds a professional touch to meeting rooms and workspaces
- Educational Institutions – Reduces wear and tear in high-use areas
- Retail & Reception Areas – Provides a polished, modern look
Pros:
More visually appealing than standard cork
Enhanced durability with fabric protection
Available in a range of colours and styles
Cons:
Higher cost compared to traditional cork
Fabric may require occasional cleaning
Krommenie – Self-Healing and Long-Lasting
Overview:
Krommenie is a high-quality linoleum-based surface with self-healing properties, meaning pinholes disappear over time. This makes it an excellent choice for high-traffic environments where durability is essential.
Best For:
- Schools & Universities – Perfect for heavy use in classrooms and lecture halls
- Busy Office Spaces – Ideal for pinboards that need to last
- Public Buildings & Libraries – Ensures long-term usability
Pros:
Self-healing surface prolongs lifespan
Extremely durable and resistant to wear
Environmentally friendly and easy to clean
Cons:
More expensive than standard options
Limited colour choices compared to fabric boards
Smooth Velour or Vertiface®: The Ultimate Versatile Fabric Surface
Overview:
Made from 100% polyester fibre, Vertiface® is a pinnable, Velcro-compatible, and acoustic-friendly fabric wallcovering. With a soft velour finish on one side and a sleek flat pile on the other, this modern surface is customisable and durable.
Best For:
- Educational Spaces – Excellent for schools and childcare centres
- Commercial Offices – Enhances workplace design and acoustics
- Retail & Feature Walls – A modern aesthetic with high functionality
Pros:
Pinnable and compatible with hook-and-loop fasteners (Velcro)
Available in a diverse range of colours
Carbon-neutral and made from sustainable materials
Cons:
Slightly higher price point
Choosing the Right Pinboard for Your Needs
When selecting the best pinboard surface, consider the following factors:
Durability – Will it withstand frequent pinning and use?
Aesthetic Appeal – Does it match your space’s design?
Functionality – Do you need acoustic properties or Velcro compatibility?
Budget – What is your price range for a long-term investment?
Final Thoughts
The right pinboard surface can transform any workspace, classroom, or home office into a functional and stylish area. Whether you need a classic corkboard, a fabric-wrapped Suzette board, a self-healing Krommenie panel, or the ultra-versatile Vertiface®, Designer Pinboards has the perfect solution.
