A fairly simple craft project is making a chalkboard.A picture frame, a piece of plywood or medium-density fiberboard, chalkboard paint, and a few other basic supplies are all you need.You can experiment with magnetic chalkboards or chalkboard paint on other flat surfaces.Children make great helpers for this project, and making a chalkboard is an enjoyable way to spend the afternoon.Your board is ready for chalk once the paint is dry.
Step 1: You can choose a picture frame based on the chalkboard size.
Pick something up at a second-hand shop, buy something new for the project, or reuse an old frame.The frame size is the final size of your chalkboard.Pick a frame that still has its backing.You don't need the backing, but it will help you secure the chalkboard later.You can use a framed mirror if you can pop it out.
Step 2: Take the glass out of the frame.
It should slide out.If you enjoy crafting, you might want to save the glass for a future project.If you dispose of the glass, make sure it doesn't hurt anyone.Wrap it in several layers of cloth rag or plastic bag if you throw it away.
Step 3: The frame should be sanded down.
If the frame is in bad shape, sand it down.Remove the backing as soon as possible to prevent it from getting dirty.
Step 4: The frame should be wiped down.
After sanding the frame, wipe the dirt off with a dry cloth.Even if you don't need to sand the frame, you should still clean it with a clean cloth.
Step 5: If you want to paint the frame, apply a coat of primer.
A sponge brush can be used to apply a coat of primer.Primer is not necessary if you don't plan on painting your frame or just want a fresh coat of the same color.If you plan on painting the frame a light color, you need a primer.Wrap your surfaces with newspaper or plastic.Let the primer dry before applying paint.
Step 6: The frame can be painted as desired.
You can apply several coats of paint with a sponge brush or traditional paintbrush.Don't apply the paint against the grain.spray paint can be used for faster application.Allow the paint to dry.For full and even coverage, aim for 2 to 3 coats.
Step 7: It is possible to stain a wooden frame.
As long as the frame is made with natural wood, you could apply wood staining.Before staining the wood, do not prime it and use a soft bristle paintbrush.The stain should be applied with the grain.Between coats, allow the stain to dry.
Step 8: A piece of medium density fiberboard is being traced.
The opening of the frame should be the same size as the rectangle.If the frame is new, trace the outline onto your board with the paper insert that comes with it.You can see inside the glass window.Use a pencil to draw the outline.If you have an old frame with no glass, you can use a ruler to measure the back opening.Your board has the same dimensions.Don't use the dimensions from the front opening of your frame.If you don't have medium-density fiberboard, plywood will work.
Step 9: The board should be cut along your traced lines.
To cut the outline you traced, use an electric jigsaw or manual hand saw.Bring the dimensions to the hardware store and ask a worker in the lumber section to trim the board for you.
Step 10: The edges should be smooth with sandpaper.
Rough sandpaper can be used to remove splinters around the perimeter after cutting the board.If the board doesn't fit into the frame perfectly, you'll need to use the sandpaper to shave it away.
Step 11: One coat of white latex primer is all you need.
To brush on a coat of primer, use a large sponge brush or standard flat painter's brush.Before applying chalkboard paint, let the primer dry completely.The primer will make it easier for the paint to stick to the board.
Step 12: The board should be painted with two coats of chalkboard paint.
Two even coats of black chalkboard paint can be applied with a painter's brush or roller.After the paint dries, even coats will reduce the amount of ridges on the surface.Between coats, allow the paint to dry completely.After drying, chalkboard paint develops the surface texture of a chalkboard.It can be written on with chalk.The effect will be stronger if two coats are applied.
Step 13: The chalkboard needs to be in the back of the frame.
The chalkboard side is facing the front.If you were replacing the glass in the frame, it should slide right in.
Step 14: Put the chalkboard in place.
If the backing will fit inside the frame, put it behind the board to make sure everything is in place.If you can't use the backing, use masking tape or packing tape to fix the back of the board.
Step 15: The frame's backing has a hook attached to it.
Attach thick twine or rope to the top two corners of the frame and hang the chalkboard with this string.
Step 16: Instead of plywood, make a magnetic chalkboard.
Tin snips can be used to trim a thin sheet of galvanized sheet metal.The metal should be the same size as the plywood.The metal should be sprayed with chalkboard spray paint.Gloves are needed when handling metal.To secure the metal in place, use the backing of the frame or another piece of board.
Step 17: Attach magnets to the back of your board to hang on the fridge.
If you plan to hang your framed chalkboard on a magnetic surface, make sure the magnets on the four corners of the frame are strong.Super glue or another strong glue can be used to secure the magnets.
Step 18: The chalkboard paint can be applied to other flat surfaces.
Adding a few layers of chalkboard paint can turn any smooth surface into a blackboard.If necessary, lightly sand the surface and apply painter's tape to cover any area you don't want paint on.Consider using old cabinet doors, an old mirror, or a dustpan.
Step 19: A chalkboard with foam board.
You can use foam board instead of plywood.Cut it out and apply two coats of chalkboard paint.This chalkboard won't be very durable.If you plan on using the chalkboard frequently, you should use this method.