Chalk it up to inspiration…

In any given week, I see at least ten projects I want to make.  Well, at least that I want someone else to make and then give to me…  And lately a lot of those have had something in common: chalkboard paint.  Up until this week, I had never tried it before, but I just kept seeing one adorable project after another and I couldn’t take it anymore! 
So, LC and I did what we do best; ransacked Michaels and came home with two wooden signs, a box of chalk, and a bottle of black chalkboard paint so we could give it a go.
Here’s how my first project turned out:
MENU SIGN
Materials: wooden sign, chalkboard paint, acrylic paint, paintbrushes, chalk
STEP 1: Paint edges of sign with acrylic paint in your choice of color.
STEP 2: Paint one coat of chalkboard paint across the top using horizontal strokes.  Let dry for one hour.
STEP 3: Paint a second coat using vertical strokes.  Let dry for 24 hours.  I also gave the edges a second coat.
STEP 4: Condition by lightly rubbing chalk over entire surface.  Wipe clean with dry eraser or damp towel.

STEP 5: Add “Menu” and day of the week text.  I used yellow paint; those of you who are cool enough to have silhouettes and vinyl can certainly use that.
*Note to self: Thou shalt not covet, thou shalt not covet, thou shalt not covet…”*
STEP 6: Use chalk to write in your menu, then change it each week!
Of course there was no getting around it, LC had to make his own chalkboard too.  He wanted his to be purple for the Ravens…that’s my boy!
The biggest complaint I had with mine was that since the brushes I was using weren’t exactly professional quality, I kept losing bristles in the paint, which got really annoying.  So, when we did Little Crafter’s, we used a sponge brush which worked much better!
February is Alphabet Month here in the Artsy House, so we’re using the chalkboard {C is for Chalkboard!} to practice writing the letter of the day.
Whaddya think?  Not bad for a first attempt, eh?
Now I understand all of you who run around with a can of chalkboard paint and a brush looking for what you can chalk-i-tize next!  It’s addictive…stop by tomorrow to see the next fun project I made with it!

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18 Comments

  1. SUPER Cute! I have been looking at the Menu Boards for a while now-just can’t figure out which one I want to do. Love this easy one-looks great! And I love your little guys ‘C’ Chalkboard! Fab! Have a great one- Jen

  2. I did this on my kids wall in different shapes. They love it! Great idea with the menu board. I am still trying to get around to making an family “center board”.

  3. Chalkboard paint is the best!! We loved having you link up to our “Strut Your Stuff Saturday!” We hope to see you back next Saturday with more fun ideas! -The Sisters

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