As soon as chalkboard paint entered the marketplace, it was a hit with interior decorators and homeowners. Not only did this paint add a multi-function versatility to the space, it also brought a new kind of element of creativity into the child’s life. What a brilliant form of creative expression!
There are other items chalkboard paint can be used on successfully beyond the wall, though. Why not try:
- Painting the entire surface, both inside and out, of a candy or cookie tin. Once the paint has cured, fill it with a plastic bag containing chalk and an eraser, a box of crayons, a small notebook, and some magnets. You have just created a travel art kit. (Be sure to tote along wet wipes to clean chalky fingers after.)
- Purchase a clipboard (the kind made with what looks like cardboard) and paint it over with chalkboard paint. Tie a piece of string or twine to the clip with a piece of chalk at the end. Place a piece of folded paper towel under the clip. You have just created a scoreboard for outdoor sports or board games.
See? Chalkboard paint can be use on more than just walls. Be sure to follow any directions listed on the container in terms of priming and proper ventilation. Take each of these projects, or any others you may have thought of, a step further by:
- Embellishing with charms, buttons, or ephemera
- Adding extra pops of color with acrylic paint
- Decoupage some letters to the back or bottom of the piece to personalize each one
- Hot glue old game pieces to the magnets
- Create a sports themed boarder around the clipboard project
Let your imagination take over and, before you know it, there will be chalkboard paint projects all over the place. The tops of old metal TV tables will take on a new life, that old metal breadbox will turn into a multi-function art caddy, and those old children’s board books will serve a new purpose.
Do not be afraid to explore. The only thing that can really go wrong is the paint will not stick. If that is the worst that can happen, then what is the harm in trying something new? Be sure to use even brush strokes, otherwise the chalk will not be able to be used smoothly. Aside from that, there really is not anything else to worry about. Roll up your sleeves, dig through your storage for the old junk you planned on tossing out, and make some multi-purpose art projects!
