How to Make a Magnetic Whiteboard

Most magnetic whiteboards can be created with a system that uses two different products: one to produce the magnetic effect and one to create the dry erase whiteboard. For most magnetic whiteboard systems, those with the most customer satisfaction have the highest pricetag ($160+). The Rust-Oleum system is somewhere in the middle when comparing the number of steps, the cost and the customer satisfaction. You will need to read and follow all system directions to get the best results in creating your magnetic whiteboard.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rust-Oleum Dry Erase Paint
• Rust-Oleum Magnetic Latex Primer
• Use rollers and brushes suggested in the Rust-Oleum instructions
• Sandpaper (80-120).
• Clean dry cloths.
• Denatured Rubbing Alchohol

1. Begin by preparing the surface you will be using by taping off the edges of the area you have chosen to use with low adhesion masking tape.

2. Repair any damaged areas filling holes with spackle and sand smooth any repaired or textured surfaces. Scuff all glossy and non-porous surfaces using medium grit sandpaper (80-120).

3. Then clean all dirty areas and remove all dust using a clean dry cloth. Denatured Rubbing Alcohol may be needed.

4. Ventilate the area you will be painting in adequately. Then apply the magnetic primer according to suppliers instructions. Apply 2-3 coats of primer. Let dry 4 hours.

5. Apply dry erase paint following suppliers instructions. As you mix Part A and Part B of the dry erase paint, apply immediately. Continue following suppliers instructions until you have applied 2 - 3 coats. Allow 2 days to dry.

6. When your magnetic whiteboard is ready, use flat or strong magnets with minimal weight to get maximum attraction. Use Expo dry erase markers for great colors and Expo Cleaner to keep your new whiteboard squeaky clean. Great job, now enjoy your magnetic whiteboard!!!

Tips & Warnings

• Shake can in an electric shaker or stir paint for at least 10 minutes.
• Use the suggested rollers and brushes for this system and follow all directions carefully.
• Prepare your surface well.
• Can be applied to wood, metal, masonry, drywall, and plaster.
• Give finished whiteboard at least 2 days to fully dry.
• Use flat or strong magnets with minimal weight for maximum attraction.
• A good tub and shower spray cleaner can be used if you have trouble cleaning your magnectic whiteboard.
• Test primer and paint before using on a large area.
• Read all instructions carefully and contact Rust-oleum website if you have any questions. (Website in resources section.)
• Ventilate area adequately.
• Avoid airflow dust or contaminants while painting.
• Remember, the whiteboard system is for indoor use only.

Resources

• Interior Design
• Rust-oleum Dry Erase Paint

[explainitplease]

on 8/28/2009 This is absolutely awesome! I'm bookmarking this, and hope to try it soon. My toddler uses the laminated paper, write on wife off, so they get wrinkled and aren't magnetic. This is the perfect project for hubby. Thanks!

[paint-it]

on 8/6/2009 Excellent! 5* and recommendation!

[ttbirdie]

on 8/5/2009 Great article on making a magnetic whiteboard, 5*

[creativewhiz]

on 7/29/2009 whoah...that's cool

[waters]

on 7/26/2009 Good article on how to make magnetic whiteboard.