Chalkboards are a cheap and easy DIY that can be used for all sorts of goodness. I like to use them as menu boards, welcome signs, and in this case, to add a little seasonal decor to our entryway.
I have a few other chalkboard signs, but I was on the lookout for something with a little more height to add to this shelf. So, I went to the best place to shop for frames…the local thrift store.
I found this frame for 2 dollars. Check out the list of other supplies below.
- Rust-Oleum Chalkboard Paint
- White Paint
- A Brush
- T Square (not needed for all chalkboard projects)
- Chalk
You can get the spray paint for 4 dollars at Walmart or Michaels. This white paint comes from our local salvage yard, The Green Project. They accept recycled paint and repurpose it. It is both cheaper and environmentally friendlier than purchasing a new can. I use it for furniture and small projects. I wouldn’t recommend painting a wall with this stuff. The likelihood of finding the same hue is slim. You can use a t square for this project if you have it, but a ruler would also work.
- Step 1: Remove the glass from the frame
- Step 2: Spray and paint
- Step 3: Let it dry for 15-20 minutes…just enough time for a coffee break!
- Step 4: Create!
Here is the part where you choose your own adventure. You can now use your thrifty chalkboard to create whatever signage your heart desires. My heart was embracing the winter pattern of plaid.
I took my t square and got to work!
For the thinner lines, I used the the very edge of the chalk. I personally love the blur and variation traditional chalk gives. If you are someone who likes a sharper, more precise edge, I recommend using a chalk pen.
Today, I went simple with one word…joy. I am not someone who has the art of calligraphy down. I rely heavily on stenciling for the majority of my lettering projects. But today, I felt confident that I could make these 3 letters work in my own hand.
After I finished lettering-okay, it still took a few attempts, but that’s what the water and q tips are for- I put the glass/chalkboard back in it’s newly painted frame.
It took 2 dollars, a dive into my craft supplies, and an hour of my time, but I now have a fresh chalkboard ready for the winter season!
House in the Parish 