How to Add Chalkboard to a Wall

Turn any wall into a working chalkboard.

Making a chalkboard a permanent fixture on a wall requires special chalkboard paint. These paints turn any surface into a usable chalkboard. Use the paint to make a large chalkboard for a child's room, or create a small chalkboard area in the kitchen or entryway to track errands or groceries. The paints come in a variety of colors, from the tradition green or black of a school room chalkboard to colors that blend into your current decor or wall color, or provide a pop of unexpected color and art.

Things You'll Need

• Painter's tape
• Level
• Primer
• Paintbrush
• Paint tray
• Paint roller
• Chalkboard paint

Instructions

1. Mark out a square or rectangular area of the wall for the chalkboard with painter's tape or masking tape. Hold a level against the edges of the tape to ensure the tape is level and squared as desired.

2. Paint a primer onto the wall inside the taped-in borders. The tape prevents the primer from spreading to the rest of the wall and leaves behind a crisp edge to the chalkboard. Allow the primer to dry overnight.

3. Pour the chalkboard paint into a paint tray. Roll on one coat of chalkboard paint in top the primer, using a paint roller. Roll the paint on in one direction to create a smooth coat. Allow it to dry for two to four hours.

4. Add a second coat of chalkboard paint so the painted area is evenly coated with no visible streaking. Allow the second coat to dry overnight.

5. Peel the tape carefully from the wall. Use the chalkboard-painted area as you would a regular chalkboard.

Tips & Warnings

• Wipe the chalkboard with a chalkboard eraser after each use. Use a slightly dampened sponge to thoroughly clean the area.

• If you tire of the chalkboard, paint over it with standard wall paint.

• The paint may begin to fade after repeated uses and cleaning. A new coat of chalkboard paint makes it look like new again.

References

• Consumer Reports; Specialty Paint: When Color Isn't Enough; June 2009