Back when the chalkboard craze started, I never thought it was a trend I would enjoy so much. Why? Because I really, really, REALLY hate chalk! I don’t like the dusty feel, the scratchy noise {shiver}…it’s just not my thing. At least, it wasn’t until I discovered chalk inks. These dust-free writing tools will write just about anywhere, including chalkboards! And once I had something to write with that didn’t make me cringe, I jumped on the chalkboard train and came up with fun stuff like a countdown sign and a chalkboard silhouette pillow.
I’ve definitely eyed the chalkboard walls that I see popping up in houses all over the internet, like this one at The Lettered Cottage.
Wow–an entire wall. That’s a pretty bold move. What do those of us do who aren’t quite ready to commit to a full chalkboard wall (or who have husbands that think we’re crazy when we mention the idea)? Well, today I’ve found some fun ways to experiment with chalk paint without covering an entire wall. Try these 5 Ways to Use Chalkboard Paint on smaller surfaces, first, and maybe it will convince you (or your reluctant spouse) to brush it on a bigger space.
1. On a Mug
I think this chalkboard mug is extra special because it uses two fun paint trends: chalkboard paint and a dipped effect. With the holidays approaching, this is a great gift idea from Wit & Wisdom.
2. On a Bed
Here’s another terrific trend pairing. A chalkboard and a classic silhouette make a statement headboard–no pun intended–at Inspired M. Stephens.
3. On a cabinet
Dear Lillie created a mini chalkboard wall on one of the end panels of her kitchen cabinets. It’s perfectly within reach of little artists’ hands.
4. On the Refrigerator
If your family enjoys a certain Disney Channel comedy, you’ve probably thought about how fun it would be to have a chalkboard surface on your refrigerator. The Handmade Home made it happen, and tells you everything you need to know about how they did it.
5. On the Backsplash
The Yellow Brick Home needed an easy and inexpensive way to upgrade their kitchen backsplash, and decided to give chalk paint a try. It’s not as bold as covering an entire wall, but it sure makes a fun place to leave messages and looks great with their granite countertops.
These are all fun projects, but I want to mention one thing about chalkboard paint that you might not know: it doesn’t have to be black. There are several manufacturers who sell tinted chalkboard paints, and Martha Stewart even has a recipe so that you can make your own with any color of paint. Let me know if you try any of these ideas for small-surface chalkboards, or come up with one of your own!
I don’t have one chalk board in the house b/c the dust and mess would drive me crazy. BUT I always see these cool projects and think, how cute and fun! I like the dear lillie sign, I might be able to handle that 🙂
I can tell you, I have had so much fun creating items, to sell using Chalk board paint…if it was me….I would paint my hall wall…and then hang the family pictures…then write notes about all the fun times family has been…I just need chalk paint in buff tan…with a black chalk
dreamin
I’ve made several chalk boards using old frames, and the latest using a coffee table top, but don’t actually have any in my home. I don’t really like the messy look of chalk, but just may try those chalk inks.
I think I’m going to take the plunge and make a chalkboard wall. I looove chalkboards! They remind me of having to be at school 30 minutes early because my mom worked there. I would get to sit in her classroom and draw on the chalkboard for as long as I wanted… so long as I cleaned it off afterward. 🙂
I am SO in love with chalkboards…it took me a bit to get into the chalkboard groove (not usually one to jump in on a new trend) but I’m all there now! I use the chalk ink and love it. It doesn’t smear, no dust and is easily removed with a damp paper towel. I’ve got 4 or 5 of them placed around my home with sayings I change out from time to time. I’ve also put chalkboard stickers on pint sized mason jars and used the chalk ink to mark guest’s names…names stay on till I wash it off! Stickers are reusable (at least so far!).
That’s exactly where I am. I’ve always thought it was the neatest thing, however I envision my child (whom I’m expecting in 8 weeks) sweet little hands rubbing chalk up and down the non-painted walls… Yikes!
Ah…Chalk ink! You have saved me from not wanting to use chalk board paint! Genius! Now I may actually try it…have a great project in mind but like everyone else…hate the idea of not only chalk dust but OMG the feel/sound of chalk! Thank you…you don’t even know how your simple comment just changed my day 🙂