How to Use Chalkboard Paint on Plastic Storage Bins

Plastic storage bins straight from the store usually look dull and boring, being designed for storage, not style. And it can be hard to distinguish the contents without opening each bin. Chalkboard paint in various colors gives lackluster bins a dash of both style and functionality. You can paint the entire lid or bin, or simply paint an area on the front of each bin so you can label the contents with a piece of chalk. Chalkboard paint on a small storage bin also creates an all-in-one play station for children: chalks decorate the outside of a painted bin and stash neatly away when not in use.

Newspaper
Fine-grit sanding block
Sponge
Soapy water
Paper towels
Painter's tape
Plastic primer
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Cover your work surface with newspaper, then put the bins on top.
- 2
  Scuff the areas to be painted with a fine-grit sanding block. Move the block both up and down, and side to side to rough up the surface.
- 3
  Wipe the plastic with a sponge dipped in soapy water. Rinse the sponge then wipe the bins again to remove soapy residue. Dry the bins thoroughly with paper towels.
- 4
  Outline the area to be painted, such as a square or rectangle on the lid or front of a bin, using painter's tape. Cut a stencil from card stock for more elaborate edging, such as scalloped. Skip this step if you plan to paint the entire bin or lid.
- 5
  Apply primer appropriate for plastic with a paintbrush to any area you plan to paint on both the bins and lids. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's directions.
- 6
  Paint the primed areas using the chalkboard paint and a paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply a second coat as directed.

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