How To Create A Chalkboard Frame

So I have a couple of projects I am currently working on at the same time. One of which is creating chalkboards out of picture frames. The best place I have found frames from is thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army. I found four or five frames for 88 cents each that range in size. It will cost more for a frame if you want something that is a larger size.

When selecting a frame you want to find a frame that is relatively undamaged. You can either just find a frame without glass and a backer and create a backer from materials from a craft store or search for one that has a good backer that you can paint. What I look for is if there is glass and a nice backer to paint the class to create a sturdier chalkboard.

Next you need to select a primer for your chalkboard paint. If you are painting glass I suggest using a Rust-Oleum primer, since they are great on glass and metal generally. If you are just painting the backer then just use a regular primer for wood or walls. You can either choose to spray on the primer or paint on the primer and I suggest using the spray on primer since it will go on a lot smoother. If you don't prime your work and are using glass, your chalkboard paint will slide off after the paint dries.

Once your primer is set, you can paint with your chalkboard paint. They make a spray or brush on your paint. I typically brush on the paint with a foam brush, since I can make a thick coat and it will still be smooth. But you can also use a spray chalkboard paint, and still get a nice and even coat for your chalkboard. You need to wait at least 24 hours before using any chalk.

So during your day of waiting, I suggest to paint your frame. So go through the normal of cleaning up the frame by sanding and using tack cloth to clean up the dust. Then paint your frame with a white primer and later paint it with the color you want your frame to be.

After you are done with your frame and your chalkboard is past its 24 hour period, rub your chalkboard with a piece of chalk completely and wipe with with a wet cloth. If you don't do this then the chalk won't show up as well on a brand new chalkboard. It might take two times of rubbing a piece of chalk on the board to make your chalk nice and clear on your chalkboard.