DIY Adventure: Unleashing a Chalkboard Blitz
If you're looking for a creative and budget-friendly home decor project, consider repurposing your old picture frames into stylish chalkboard frames. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this transformation.
Repurposing Old Frames
The first step is to remove the glass from the picture frame and replace it with a suitable surface for writing with chalk. You can use a piece of hardwood, foam board, or sturdy cardboard. For a budget-friendly option, you could even paint a piece of paper with chalk paint, cut it to fit, and insert it in the frame instead of the glass.
Preparing the Surface
Once you've replaced the glass, paint the new surface with chalkboard paint, usually in black or green. For a smooth finish, use a foam brush or a high-density foam roller to apply the paint evenly, avoiding brush strokes. Apply multiple thin coats, letting each layer dry fully before applying the next. Lightly sand the painted surface between coats with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure smoothness.
Conditioning the Chalkboard
After the paint is fully cured, "season" the chalkboard surface by rubbing chalk all over it and then wiping it off with a soft rag. This process conditions the chalkboard, preventing ghosting.
Painting the Frame
To enhance the frame's look, you can paint the frame itself. For instance, applying black chalk paint and then adding a metallic finish with antique gold Rub 'n Buff can give the frame a vintage aesthetic.
Sourcing the Wood Backing
For this project, a hardwood backing was sourced from Home Depot. A 2 ft by 2 ft board was purchased and cut for free. The board was 1/8'' thick and the size was the perfect solution for the DIY project.
Attaching the Wood Backing
Staples or nails were used to attach the wood backing to the frame, depending on the size of the frame.
Painting the Wood Backing
The hardwood backing was painted using an old margarine container as a prop to ensure painting the edges. Four coats of chalkboard paint were applied to the wood backing, as opposed to the recommended two.
Final Touches
Each frame has its own unique style and character, ranging from solid wooden frames to intricately detailed molded ones. The project was completed with a list of supplies, which includes affiliate links for purchases.
By following these steps, you can transform old frames into attractive, functional chalkboards perfect for home or event decor. Happy crafting!
[1] For a budget-friendly option, you can paint a piece of paper with chalk paint, cut it to fit, and insert it in the frame instead of the glass. [2] The finished product had a unique style and character for each frame, due to the variety of colors and styles of the frames. [3] Four coats of chalkboard paint were applied to the wood backing, as opposed to the recommended two. [4] To enhance the frame’s look, painting the frame itself, such as applying black chalk paint and then adding a metallic finish with antique gold Rub 'n Buff for a vintage aesthetic.
- To create a more budget-friendly chalkboard frame, consider painting a piece of paper with chalk paint and inserting it into the frame instead of the glass.
- Each repurposed chalkboard frame has its own unique style and character due to the variety of colors and styles of the original frames.
