Making a chalkboard is an easy craft project to do. You only need a photo frame, a sheet of plywood or medium density fiberboard (MDF), special paint for chalkboards, and a few other basic tools. You can also make other variations, such as a magnetic chalkboard, or use another flat material that is smeared with chalkboard special paint. This fun activity can be used to pass the time in the afternoon, by involving the children to help you. When the paint has dried, your chalkboard is ready to go.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Selecting and Setting Up a Frame
Step 1. Choose a photo frame that matches the size of the whiteboard you want to create
You can use a used frame, buy it at a flea store, or buy a new one. The size of the whiteboard will be the same as the size of the frame you selected.
- When choosing a frame, use a frame that has a back cover. This back cover isn't necessary, but it's very useful for holding the whiteboard firmly against the frame.
- You can also use a frame for a mirror, as long as the glass is removable.
Step 2. Remove the glass or acrylic (plexiglass) from the frame
You can definitely get it out easily. Glass isn't necessary for this project, but if you enjoy making crafts, save the glass for future projects.
If the glass is to be disposed of, take precautions so that the glass does not injure others. You can recycle the glass or throw it away. However, if you still want to throw it away, first wrap the glass with a few sheets of cloth or plastic
Step 3. Scrub the frame with sandpaper
If the frame is still rough, rub the frame lightly with fine sandpaper. Remove the back cover of the frame to prevent damage or sticking of dirt when you sand.
Step 4. Wipe the frame
When the frame has been sanded, wipe off any remaining dust and dirt using a clean, dry cloth. Even if you don't sand, you should still wipe the frame with a clean cloth to remove dirt and dust.
Step 5. Apply a primer (primer) on the frame if you want to paint it later
Use a sponge brush to apply white base paint to the wooden frame. You don't need to apply primer if the frame doesn't want to be painted, or if you want it painted the same color. A primer is very important if you want to paint the frame in a light color, especially if the original color is dark.
- Lay out newspapers or plastic sheets to protect the work surface.
- Let the primer dry completely before you apply the main paint.
Step 6. Paint the frame as desired
You can use a sponge brush or a regular paint brush to apply several coats of paint of the desired color. Apply the paint in the direction of the wood grain, not against it. To speed up and make the job easier, use spray paint.
Let the paint dry before you apply a new coat of paint over it. Apply 2 to 3 coats of paint for a full and even finish
Step 7. Paint the wood frame with wood stain (a wood stain like varnish), if you want an alternative
Wood stain can be used as long as the frame is made of natural wood. Don't apply primer before you apply the wood stain, and do this using a soft-bristled brush. Apply the wood stain in the direction of the wood grain, not against it.
Let the stain dry before you apply a new coat
Part 2 of 3: Painting the Blackboard
Step 1. Draw a rectangle on the MDF board
This rectangular design should be the same size as the frame opening. If the frame is new, remove the frame filling paper and trace the outline of the paper onto the fiberboard. You can also trace the size of the glass window on the inside. Use a pencil to trace the outline of the glass on the fiberboard.
- If you have an old frame without glass, measure the back of the frame opening using a ruler. Draw a rectangle with the same dimensions as the board. Do not use dimensions from the front of the frame opening.
- You can also use plywood if you don't have MDF boards.
Step 2. Cut the board in the square line that has been made
Cut out the square image you created using a hand or electric saw (jigsaw). If you can't do it yourself, take the boards to a hardware store and have the staff there cut them out.
Step 3. Smooth the edges of the board with sandpaper
Once the boards are cut, use coarse sandpaper to smooth all the edges of the boards that were cracked by the saw. You will also need sandpaper to reduce the portion of the board that exceeds the size of the frame.
Step 4. Apply a coat of white latex primer to one side of the board
Apply the primer using a sponge brush or a large regular paint brush. Wait for the primer to dry completely before applying the main paint to the board.
Base paint makes it easier for the main paint to stick to the surface of the wood plank
Step 5. Use 2 coats of chalkboard paint to color the board
Use a brush or roller to evenly apply 2 coats of black paint on the board that has been coated with the primer. Apply the paint evenly to minimize any bumps on the surface of the board if the paint dries later.
- Wait for the paint to dry completely before applying a new coat of paint.
- Chalkboard paint is specifically designed to improve the texture of the chalkboard surface as it dries. After that, the blackboard will be able to write with chalk. By applying 2 coats of paint, the effect will be stronger.
Step 6. Attach the whiteboard to the back of the frame
Insert the board into the frame with the painted side facing forward. You should be able to fit the board easily, just like when you install glass in a frame.
Step 7. Secure the whiteboard position in the frame
If the back cover of the frame can fit when attached to the whiteboard, also attach this layer behind the board to secure its position. If the back cover doesn't fit into the frame, you can use tape or duct tape to secure the back of the board so that it sticks firmly to the frame.
Step 8. Hang the whiteboard through the hooks on the back of the frame
Alternatively, use large staples to attach thick wire or thin rope to the top two corners of the frame, then hang the board on hooks using this wire/rope.
Part 3 of 3: Creating Variations
Step 1. Use sheet metal to make a magnetic whiteboard instead of plywood
Use metal shears to cut the thin galvanized sheet of metal to the desired size. The sheet metal should be the same size as the wooden board you'd use to make a regular chalkboard. Spray several coats of chalkboard paint on the sheet metal.
- Always wear gloves when handling metal to avoid scratching your hands.
- Secure the sheet metal to the frame using a wooden plank or back cover.
Step 2. Stick the magnet on the back if you want to mount the whiteboard on the refrigerator
If you want this chalk-framed chalkboard to hang on a magnetic surface (such as a refrigerator), attach strong magnets to the four corners of the frame. Attach the magnets to the frame using superglue or other strong adhesive.
Step 3. Prepare another material with a flat surface, then apply chalkboard paint
Anything with a smooth, flat surface can be turned into a chalkboard after a few coats of paint. If necessary, lightly sand the surface, and apply masking tape to areas you don't want to paint.
Try using oven trays, old cupboard doors, old mirrors, window panes, or dustpans
Step 4. Use a foam board to make a lightweight chalkboard
You can use foam board instead of plywood or MDF board. Cut the foam board to the desired size, then apply 2 coats of chalkboard paint.
