Some people just have that magic touch. My friend Ken is one of those people.
Walk into his downtown New Orleans apartment and before you even have a chance to take in the breathtaking views of Canal Street, you’re struck by the old-world charm that makes the whole unit feel much less like an apartment and much more like a Tuscan villa. At some point, I hope to raid his home and share gobs of beautiful pictures with you, but in the meantime, I wanted to share a great idea of his.
We’ve all seen or heard about chalkboard paint. It’s available at any home store these days. However, Ken takes it to a whole new level. He surrounded his chalkboard with an elaborate antique frame to create a menu board fit for a palace. My version is a bit more shabby-chic than expensive-antique and it’s easy to tailor the basic concept to your personal style. Here’s how you do it…
Shopping:
Antique frame (you can find them in thrift stores, antique shops or estate sales)
Damp rag
¼ Plywood (you can also use foam board if you don’t have the tools to cut wood)
Table saw or jigsaw
Wood filler
Paint for frame
Chalkboard paint
Paint brushes
Sand paper
Nails
Instructions:
Remove all glass, art, backing, nails and wire from your frame
Clean with damp rag
Patch any holes, nicks or imperfections with wood filler
If you’d like, paint your frame with spray paint or whatever you have lying around
Measure the frame opening (from the back) and cut your board to size (the home store can do this for you)
Sand your board until smooth
Apply at least 3 coats of chalkboard paint, allowing ample time to dry between coats
Insert chalkboard into old frame and secure with nails hammered in at an angle
Enjoy your new chalkboard creation!
Wonderful article! I love the detailed explanation of things, for those of us less hammer friendly!
Does this chalkboard paint need a primer coat underneath?
Nope! You can use either the spray or the paint in the can and either variety goes on easily without a primer. Just make sure you give it at least 3 coats!
Great job on the story!
they look just GREAT,I was thinking about putting one by my kitchen phone. LOL
The chalkboards look GREAT, I was thinking about putting one by my phone in the kitchen