How to Make A Chalkboard Wall
A chalkboard wall adds creativity, fun, and a personalized touch to any room. It's perfect for playrooms, giving kids a space to express themselves.
Servings: 1 surface
Equipment
- Painter’s Tape: To outline the area for your chalkboard.
- Synthetic Brush: For painting corners and edges.
- Foam Roller (¼” to ⅜” nap): To apply the chalk paint smoothly on the wall.
- Bucket & Rag: To clean the wall before painting (mix 1 cup vinegar with warm water).
- Chalk Line: To mark a straight line if you’re painting part of the wall.
- Drop Cloth: To protect the floor from paint drips.
- Measuring Tape: To measure the wall and ensure even borders.
- Chalk: To condition the wall once the paint cures.
- Dry Cloth: For wiping down the wall after conditioning.
- Sanding Sponge (optional): To lightly smooth any rough spots on textured walls before painting.
- Stir Stick: To mix the paint thoroughly before use.
- Trim Tools (optional): For cutting and installing wood trim if you want a framed look (miter saw, nails, hammer, or nail gun).
Ingredients
- Chalk Paint
- Box of Chalk for seasoning
- Optional: Wood Trim for framing
Instructions
- Choose Your Wall: Pick a smooth or lightly textured wall. If your wall is too bumpy, writing won’t be smooth.
Tape the Area: Use painter's tape to outline your chalkboard area.
Paint: Apply 2-3 coats of chalk paint. Use light, even strokes with a foam roller or synthetic brush. Wait 4 hours between coats, and let the final coat cure for 3 days.
Condition the Wall: Rub chalk on its side all over the wall to prime it. This step is key for an erasable surface!
Trim It Out (Optional): Add wood trim for a custom, finished look.
Decorate: Paint playful details above the chalkboard like hand-painted + signs for extra character.
Notes
Chalkboard Wall Maintenance Tips:
Regular Cleaning: Dry Erase: After each use, wipe the chalkboard with a dry cloth or felt eraser to remove excess chalk.
Deeper Clean: Every few weeks, use a damp cloth to clean off stubborn chalk dust. Avoid using too much water, as it could damage the paint. Let the wall dry completely before writing again.
Re-Conditioning the Wall: After cleaning with a damp cloth, or if the wall starts losing its erasability, re-condition the wall by rubbing the side of a piece of chalk all over the surface, just like when you first primed it. This step restores the smooth, erasable surface.
Touch-ups: Paint touch-ups might be necessary over time, especially in high-use areas where chalk may wear the surface. Keep extra chalk paint on hand for small touch-up jobs.
Trim Maintenance (If Installed): If you’ve added a wood frame, clean it occasionally and apply a protective sealant if needed to prevent permanent chalk marks.
By following these simple maintenance steps, your chalkboard wall will stay fresh and ready for fun for years to come!
Regular Cleaning: Dry Erase: After each use, wipe the chalkboard with a dry cloth or felt eraser to remove excess chalk.
Deeper Clean: Every few weeks, use a damp cloth to clean off stubborn chalk dust. Avoid using too much water, as it could damage the paint. Let the wall dry completely before writing again.
Re-Conditioning the Wall: After cleaning with a damp cloth, or if the wall starts losing its erasability, re-condition the wall by rubbing the side of a piece of chalk all over the surface, just like when you first primed it. This step restores the smooth, erasable surface.
Touch-ups: Paint touch-ups might be necessary over time, especially in high-use areas where chalk may wear the surface. Keep extra chalk paint on hand for small touch-up jobs.
Trim Maintenance (If Installed): If you’ve added a wood frame, clean it occasionally and apply a protective sealant if needed to prevent permanent chalk marks.
By following these simple maintenance steps, your chalkboard wall will stay fresh and ready for fun for years to come!