What Is a Chalkboard Finish?

Suggested Uses

• Apply chalkboard finish paint to walls, doors, furniture or household objects in various contexts to create large or small chalkboards. In a child's bedroom or play area, create a chalkboard wall as a place for the child to draw with chalk and decorate the space in a new way whenever he wants. A chalkboard on kitchen cabinets or a pantry door can provide space to write a shopping list or leave notes for other family members. In an office, use a chalkboard wall as a calendar or a space for brainstorming or planning. Paint a small item, such as a piggy bank or kitchen canister, with chalkboard finish paint to be able to personalize it or label the contents.

Purchasing Paint

• Most major paint manufacturers sell paint with a chalkboard finish. It is commonly available in the traditional chalkboard colors of black, dark gray and green. Some specialty companies sell chalkboard paint in other colors, as well. If you can't find the color you want, make your own chalkboard finish paint by mixing 2 tbsp. of powdered tile grout with 1 cup of acrylic paint and 1/2 cup of water-based glaze. Paint the surface as usual, but after the paint has dried, smooth out any bumps with 400-grit sandpaper and wipe away the dust with a damp cloth.

Paint Application

• Apply chalkboard finish paint as you would apply any other type of paint. However, be especially attentive to keeping the surface smooth. This ensures that your chalkboard is free of bumps that would disrupt the distribution of chalk when you write on it. Before painting, sand any rough spots on the surface to be painted and then wipe down the surface until it is completely clean and free of dust. Apply a smooth coat of primer and allow it to dry thoroughly before applying the chalkboard paint. If possible, use a roller for painting to get an even coat and avoid drips.

Care and Maintenance

• With proper care, chalkboard finish paint will create a surface just like a regular chalkboard. After you paint, wait at least one week for the chalkboard finish to cure. Then, condition the board by setting a piece of chalk on it horizontally and rubbing the chalk across the entire board. Wipe off the chalk with a damp cloth and allow the board to dry before using it. Remove chalk marks daily with a dry cloth or chalkboard eraser. When the board begins to look dirty, clean it more thoroughly with a damp cloth.