Chalkboard walls have been used in school classrooms for ages, where students can write and draw, and where teachers impart their knowledge to students.
Now chalkboard walls have made their way into homes because of its fun and convenient way of learning and communicating. If you have a busy household and you want to keep a list of things you need to do or some reminders, you can use the chalkboard wall to your advantage.
Chalkboard walls are also great for kids’ rooms or playrooms; it allows them to ‘write on the walls’ and explore their creativity while having fun. On the decor side of things, they are a great solution for blank walls.
To break it down, a chalkboard is made solely of chalkboard paint. This water-based paint can be applied directly to the wall where you plan to create a chalkboard. It can also be applied on almost any type of surface, some of which are metal, glass, wood, or plaster. It is both easy to clean and versatile.
Chalkboard paint is available for purchase in just about any hardware store and local paint store. Most manufacturers producing chalkboard paints have the product available in the classic black, but with the popularity of the chalkboard, more and more manufacturers are reinventing the wheel and making this product available in a variety of hues. Check out Rust-Oleum, Hudson Paint, FlokArt and Tilano for some whimsical colour options that you may have never thought of!
If you have plans to make a chalkboard wall in your home, there is no need to hire a professional. This project is so easy to make and you can do it yourself by following a few simple steps:
1. Assess the area where you’ll install the chalkboard wall
To be able to purchase the right amount of chalkboard paint, be sure to measure the area you want to install your chalkboard wall. It can be the whole wall of a room or just an area. Framing out your chalkboard area is a great way to create a custom look.
You can find frames by going to any local antique stores, or even going to a framer to have one made up for you with your specific dimensions. If you have someone handy at home you can tackle a cheap and cheerful option by building a custom frame from a door/window trim; this is another great option that will allow you to customize the size of your chalkboard.
2. Prepare the materials you’ll need
It is essential to purchase an adequate amount of chalkboard paint for the area you will be covering. You can choose the colour you want from the various shades available. Do not forget to pick up a good quality brush and some painter’s tape to frame the chalkboard area. Depending on your wall’s condition, you may need plaster, patch and sand the area to ensure you have a smooth working surface.
3. Prepare and paint your wall
You can use your frame as a measuring tool, or use a measuring tape to figure out the size you require. Using the painter’s tape, border the area where you want to install the chalkboard. It is not necessary to prime the area first.
Once the prep work has been done, you can go ahead and apply the chalkboard paint. Apply it directly on the wall and let it dry following the manufacturer’s directions before applying the second coat. Once you’ve applied the second coat and it has dried, remove the painter’s tape. Two coats are a must so do not rush the job!
4. Last minute preparation
Do not forget to paint the frame of your chalkboard wall or apply the frame you’ve bought. Once the chalkboard surface is dry, the last thing to do would be to coat the whole chalkboard wall with chalk dust. Make sure to cover the entire surface and erase it with a chalkboard eraser. Now you’re ready to use your wall.
Chalkboard walls are fun and can be used in homes, offices, and even commercial spaces. You may even want to think outside the box. Chalkboard paint is great to use on all types of applications, from doors, tables, to glass jars. The ideas are infinite and the result is inspiring.
Before installing a chalkboard wall or doing any other chalkboard products in your home, ensure that your child is not allergic to chalk dust because this might pose health problems. Keep organized and unleash the creativity in yourself using colourful chalkboard paint!
