How to Create a Magnetic Chalkboard Wall

Magnetic chalkboards make great additions to a home office, kitchen or child's bedroom to keep things organized and promote creativity. Follow the steps to create your own magnetic chalkboard wall.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Buy magnetic paint and chalkboard paint, in quarts or gallons depending on the magnetic chalkboard area you wish you create. Look for magnetic and chalkboard paints at a home store, paint store or online.

2. Mask off a section of wall or decide to paint an entire wall. Lay drop cloths or plastic around the area to protect it from paint spilling or dripping.

3. Paint 2 to 3 coats of magnetic paint on the desired wall or space, making sure to mix the paint thoroughly to avoid particles settling together. Allow paint to dry completely between coats and after you've finished the last coat.

4. Test magnetic strength by placing a few magnets of various sizes onto the painted surface. If the strength isn't what you want, add another coat and repeat the test once the paint is dry.

5. Paint 1 to 2 coats of chalkboard paint, following the manufacturer's specific instructions for best results. Allow paint to dry between coats and after you've finished painting the last coat.

6. Pull masking tape away from the wall and test the chalkboard. If you want, build a chalk tray from scrap wood or hang mesh bags to hold colored chalk and paper.

7. Adhere magnetic sheet strips to posters and photographs and add small magnets for a creative work or play space. Use alphabet and number magnets, colored chalk and photos for a movable collage and idea board.

[arwen1964]

on 5/25/2009 You can increase the magnetic quality of the paint by adding iron oxide to it.