How to Use Chalkboard Paint in a Bedroom
Chalkboard paint turns nearly any surface into an instant drawing surface where kids can create works of art that are easy to wipe away to make room for more pictures. The appeal of chalkboards to kids of all ages makes this a special paint ideal for kids' bedrooms. You'll find both spray paint and traditional paint in a can in chalkboard varieties. Green and black are standard colors, but you can customize the color by making your own chalkboard paint. Take time to plan the project before you begin painting to ensure you don't go overboard with chalkboard surfaces. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Decide how large of a chalkboard surface you want in the room. Make sure it's large enough so your child can draw large pictures. If you're going with a traditional green or black chalkboard paint, large areas can make the overall room feel dark.
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Identify the location of the chalkboard surface. An entire wall, a framed section of a wall, a closet door, a toy box lid or the top of a child's table are all examples of potential areas for the chalkboard.
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Prepare any wooden surfaces by lightly sanding them with medium-grit sandpaper. Wipe the surfaces to remove any dust or debris. This makes the chalkboard paint adhere better to the surface.
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Mark off the area being painted using painter's tape. Measure the area for uniformity. Press the tape smoothly along the measured lines to make sure the paint doesn't seep beneath it.
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Prime the surface using a latex primer. Brush or roll the primer onto the surface. Allow it to dry completely.
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Brush or roll the chalkboard paint in an even layer onto the surface. If you're using a spray paint version, spray it onto the designated area. Let the paint dry before applying a second coat of chalkboard paint for a better finish.
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Allow the paint to dry for at least one week before using the chalkboard. This will ensure that it has plenty of time to cure.
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Condition the cured chalkboard area by rubbing the side of a piece of chalk all over the surface. Use a damp washcloth to wipe off the chalk.
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Tips & Warnings
To make a custom chalkboard paint color, mix two cups of flat latex paint in the desired shade with 4 tbsp. of unsanded tile grout. Stir well and apply it to the wall as you would normal chalkboard paint.
For a creative chalkboard, paint designs on the wall with the special paint. For example, in a sports-themed room, paint a large football with brown chalkboard paint, a basketball with orange chalkboard paint and a soccer ball with black and white chalkboard paint.
References
- Photo Credit yellow paint image by Jennifer Griner from Fotolia.com
