How to Make Chalkboards

Making your own chalkboard is a fun and easy project that won't take you very long at all to complete. The best thing about it is that you can choose the shape and size the board will be when you're through. You won't have to settle for the limited chalkboard choices that are available commercially.

All of the materials for this project are very inexpensive and commonly sold in department, home-improvement and hardware stores.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves Newspapers Plywood Pencil Yardstick (or other straightedge) Electric power saw Sandpaper Cloth Aerosol primer paint Aerosol chalkboard coating paint White chalk Chalkboard eraser

Instructions

1. Choose a location where you would like your chalkboard to be situated. Measure the area and purchase a piece of plywood large enough to accommodate the predetermined dimensions of the board.

2. Use a yardstick and pencil to sketch the outline of the chalkboard onto a sheet of plywood (if it is not already the size and shape that you want). Or sketch any other shape that will complement the decor of your chosen location. Cut out the sketched shape with an electric power saw.

3. Smooth the edges of the plywood shape with sandpaper. Then wipe away the dust with a soft, dampened, lint-free cloth.

4. Spread some newspapers on a flat working surface, either outside or in a well-ventilated indoor area. Place the plywood shape on the papers.

5. Slip on some disposable gloves, because there is no way to use spray paints without getting some of it on your hands. Hold a can of aerosol primer spray (of any color) parallel to the board and use smooth strokes--all going in the same direction from side to side--to apply the coat of primer. Make sure it dries completely before you proceed.

6. Apply aerosol chalkboard-coating paint (of any color) in the same manner that you used with the primer, but use vertical strokes this time. Let the chalkboard air-dry for 3 or 4 days.

7. Cover the surface of the board completely with a layer of white chalk. You can do this simply by laying the chalk on its side on the board and rubbing it all over. Then remove the chalk with a felt eraser.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not allow the aerosol cans to be near fire or any heat source. Do not use them without adequate ventilation.