25+ Nursery Design Ideas

Chalkboard Paint Tips

1. Use it everywhere. Chalkboard paint is best used on previously painted surfaces. It comes in cans or spray paint versions. Try it on walls, of course, but also on old play tables, backs of doors, or drawer fronts.
2. Apply it correctly. Plan to paint when the air and surface temperatures are above 50 degrees. Make sure you have plenty of ventilation, and wear a safety mask.
3. Plan on multiple coats. Chalkboard paint works best when you layer three to five coats painted in different directions (if using a brush). When using the spray-paint version, spray back and forth evenly to produce the best finish. If you linger too much in one spot, you'll get ugly drips!
4. Make cleanup easy. A damp sponge cleans up the finished surface and cuts down on chalk dust.
5. Add a frame. Once you've painted a wall area, you can frame it with molding or paint a border around it. This can help very young artists understand that not all wall surfaces can be drawn on. Stenciling or stamping the chalkboard along the edges is also a great way to create a frame. Simply allow the chalkboard paint to dry completely before applying the stencils or stamps.

-- Written by Emma Sarran