How to Paint A Chalkboard Wall

Chalkboard painting is an inexpensive home decor idea.

Using chalkboard paint is a relatively inexpensive way to create a large chalkboard surface on a wall, and is easy to do in a child's or teen's bedroom. Painting a chalkboard wall is a great way to encourage your child's artistic talents and imagination.

Here are the basic steps for these easy weekend project:

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Chalkboard paint
• Brushes or paint roller
• Masking tape
• Drop cloth
• Paint pan
• Drywall spackle
• Sandpaper

1. Rustoleum Chalkboard Paint

   Purchase a gallon of chalkboard paint. Many stores carry at least one line of chalkboard paint. Target stores for instance, currently carry Rustoleum Specialty Chalkboard Paint in black or green. This is a writable/erasable latex paint. A one gallon can of paint is less than $20 and will cover approximately 125 sq. ft.

   There are also several brands of magnetic chalkboard paint available.

2. Prepare the wall by cleaning it with soap and water, and filling in any holes with spackle. Be sure to sand down any bumps or patches to create a smooth surface. Cover flooring and existing furniture with drop cloths.

3. Use painter's masking tape to protect adjoining walls, floors and ceilings. You can also mask off a smaller portion of the wall to give it a "framed" look, leaving several inches of the wall to create a border on all sides of your new chalkboard area.

   ** For a toddler's room or for children under 48", consider painting only the bottom half of the wall with chalkboard paint, making an artistic surface at their eye-level.

4. Now you're ready to paint. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for painting, which will usually include covering the surface with two coats. Let dry at least 48-72 hours before using.

   Now all you need is colorful chalk, an eraser and a little imagination!

Tips & Warnings

• Chalkboard paint can be painted on wood, drywall, or hardboard. It's also approved for metal, glass, terra cotta and concrete, and cleans up with soap and water.

• Consider your home environment before painting. Chalkboard paint can decrease the lighting in a room if used for a full wall, and is heat absorbing.

Resources

• Target.com
• Chalkboard Paint - AMAZON.com