Chalkboards: They're Not Just for School Anymore

An old mirror gets new life as a gorgeous chalkboard at FullHouse

Recently, a friend of mine was surprised to find out that chalkboard paint is readily available and used often now in home decorating. As a fan of house blogs for a year now, I've noticed tons of great uses for chalkboard paint that result in practical and surprisingly chic results in the home.


It's readily available at most stores and Lowe's even carries chalkboard spray paint to make your DIY even easier.


If you'd like to make your own chalkboard paint from any shade - here are instructions from Martha Stewart Living:


Start with flat-finish latex paint in any shade. For small areas, such as a door panel, mix 1 cup at a time.

1. Pour 1 cup of paint into a container. Add 2 tablespoons of unsanded tile grout. Mix with a paint stirrer, carefully breaking up clumps.
2. Apply paint with a roller or a sponge paintbrush to a primed or painted surface. Work in small sections, going over the same spot several times to ensure full, even coverage. Let dry.
3. Smooth area with 150-grit sandpaper, and wipe off dust.
4. To condition: Rub the side of a piece of chalk over entire surface. Wipe away residue with a barely damp sponge.

And to get you inspired, here's a bunch more ways to utilize chalkboards for something more amazing than homework assignments...

Message Center

A favorite of mine - the Chalkboard fridge!

Children's Bathroom

Magnetic Chalkboard (created with a coat of magnetic paint, then a coat of chalkboard paint)

Last but not least, the most amazing use I've seen, the Chalkboard Paint Dining Room table! Check it out here at Design*Sponge.