Chalkboard Paint Ideas

I was recently at a local cupcake show and their entire hallway was covered in what looked to be a giant chalkboard. Kids who were visiting the store kept themselves busy for hours (and their parents happy). Turns out chalkboard paint has many uses and is great for playrooms, kids’ bedrooms, activity calendars, schools, offices and to do lists wherever you put them.  Chalkboard paint can be applied to nearly any surface including wood, metal, glass, ceramic and hardboard. The paint creates a smooth, hard surface that is similar to slate so you can write on it!

 

Chalkboard Paint Benefits

• Scratch resistant
• Extremely hard
• Can be cleaned by erasing or with soap and water
• Can be applied to a wide variety of materials

 

Chalkboard Paints

There are several manufacturers of chalkboard paint including Benjamin Moore, Krylon, Rust-Oleum, Colorhouse and others. While black is the standard color for this application, there are other colors you might consider for your chalkboard, like, green, slate gray, blue, purple, hot pink and even clear.

 

Chalkboard Paint Application

For larger chalkboard projects it is recommended to hire North Richland Hills painters, Keller painters, Colleyville painting services or Southlake painters for the job. First identify the area you want to paint, whether it is a playroom wall or an entire room. The painters will prepare the surface by cleaning it, filling in any cracks and sand the surface to make sure it is smooth. During the chalkboard paint application, it is important that there are not any bubbles or paint brush marks which is another reason why this process is best left to a professional painter. Allow the paint to dry for three days before using the chalkboard. To help the curing process, gently rub the surface with white chalk.

 

Other Chalkboard Painting Considerations

If a wall is painted flat then you won’t need to add any primer, but if you already have semi-gloss, eggshell or any other finish then it is recommended to add primer before applying chalkboard paint. Another cool thing that you can do with chalkboard paint to make it even more functional is to apply a magnetic base so you can magnets anywhere on your new chalkboard! For an added touch, you can add a ledge at the base to hold your chalk, use a decorative border or molding around it or add squares so it can be used as an erasable calendar. Keep in mind that if you are creating a chalkboard for a child’s room, make sure that it is low enough that they can reach the board.

Creating Movable or Temporary Chalkboard Surfaces

Looking for chalkboard flexibility without the lifelong commitment? There are a few clever options that let you enjoy a writable surface—no permanent paint required.

• Removable Chalkboard Decals: Perfect for renters or the indecisive decorator, these decals come in a range of sizes and shapes and can be easily peeled off when you’re ready for a change. Stick one on your refrigerator for a quick memo board or on a cabinet door for family notes, and simply remove it when needed with no residue left behind.
• Chalkboard Contact Paper or Vinyl Sheets: Similar to decals, chalkboard contact paper can be trimmed to fit almost any surface. Think kitchen doors, desktops, or playroom walls. It’s repositionable, wipes clean, and goes on in minutes, no paintbrush needed.
• Blackboard Fabric Rolls: If you need something even more portable, some specialty shops offer chalk-friendly fabric that can be rolled up and tucked away when not in use. These are great for those short on wall space but not on ideas. Before using, “prime” the fabric by rubbing it with chalk and wiping clean to create the best writing surface.
• Framed Chalkboards and Easels: For the ultimate in mobility, consider framed chalkboards or easels. They come in all shapes and styles, from rustic farmhouse to sleek modern, and can be moved from room to room with ease. Set one up for a party, then store it away or swap the location as needed.

When using temporary or movable chalkboard surfaces, remember to prep the material as recommended—most benefit from a quick wipe-down or priming with chalk so they’re ready for creativity right away.

Chalkboard Tabletops: Encouraging Creative Expression

Kids have a knack for seeking out off-limits places to doodle—think tables, desks, and, yes, those freshly painted walls. One clever way to channel that creative energy (and spare your furniture) is by transforming a tabletop with chalkboard paint. This instantly offers a dedicated, wipe-clean space where young artists can draw, write stories, or play games, all without worry.

With a chalkboard tabletop, children have the freedom to experiment, erase, and start again any time inspiration strikes. Whether it’s designing a mini racetrack, sketching out their favorite animal, or simply scribbling, a chalkboard surface invites boundless imagination. This approach turns an ordinary table into the perfect canvas, right at their fingertips, and encourages hours of hands-on, screen-free play.

Creative Ways to Use Chalkboard Paint in the Kitchen

Kitchens are bustling hubs of family activity, and chalkboard paint isn’t just limited to walls and playrooms—it can add both function and fun to your kitchen space too. Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:

• Chalkboard Refrigerator: Looking for a more engaging alternative to cluttering the fridge with magnets and sticky notes? Try transforming the surface of your refrigerator with chalkboard paint. Start by giving the appliance a thorough cleaning and a light sanding, then apply your favorite chalkboard paint color. Suddenly, your fridge becomes a spot for grocery lists, reminders, or your children’s latest masterpieces.
• Cabinet Makeover: Chalkboard paint works beautifully on lower kitchen cabinets, especially in homes with little ones. Painting the bottom cabinets creates a drawing space within easy reach, keeping kids happily occupied while meals are being prepared.
• Tabletop Transformations: Is your breakfast nook table craving a refresh? Consider a chalkboard-painted table surface. Kids (and adults) can doodle, jot down quick notes, or even sketch out tonight’s menu—all easily erasable when it’s time to clean up.
• Backsplashes and Memo Stations: A chalkboard-painted backsplash isn’t just a clever design touch—it’s also incredibly practical. Use it for jotting notes, meal plans, recipes, or to-do lists, and simply wipe clean after each use. Or, paint a section of wall or cupboard door to function as a family message center or menu board.
• Removable Chalkboard Decals: If you’re not quite ready for a permanent change, peel-and-stick chalkboard decals are available at most hardware and craft stores. These handy decals can be placed on appliances, cabinets, or even glass pantry doors, and removed without a trace when you’re ready for a new look.

Whether you want a spot for spontaneous doodles or a handy place for reminders, chalkboard paint is a simple, playful upgrade that brings personality—and practicality—to any kitchen corner.

How to Make a Colorful Chalkboard Dresser

Transforming an old dresser into a vibrant chalkboard canvas is a clever way to add both fun and function to your child’s room. Begin by choosing your favorite shade—or let your kids weigh in. As we mentioned, chalkboard paint comes in a wide variety of colors now, so you’re not limited to basic black.

Simply clean and lightly sand the dresser, then apply your selected chalkboard paint (from options like Benjamin Moore, Rust-Oleum, or Colorhouse) to each dresser drawer. Once dry, you can use chalk to label each drawer—for socks, shirts, toys, or whatever suits your needs—and let your kids decorate, doodle, or erase as often as they like. Not only does this keep things organized, but it also encourages creativity every day.

Benefits of Chalkboard-Painted Cabinets for Families

If you’ve got little ones underfoot while trying to whip up dinner, chalkboard-painted cabinets might just be your new best friend. By transforming the lower cabinets in your kitchen with chalkboard paint, you’re creating an instant creative zone at eye level for kids.

• Keeps Children Entertained: Kids can doodle, play games, or practice writing letters while you cook nearby—no more “I’m bored!” in the kitchen.
• Encourages Creativity: The cabinets become a safe, reusable canvas for endless artistic expression that you can simply wipe clean afterward.
• Practical for Parents: Chalk smudges are a breeze to wipe off (just use a damp cloth), so clean-up is easy and stress-free.
• Customizable Space: You can use these cabinet surfaces for to-do lists, reminders, or playful notes to your family—just as fun for adults as for kids.

Chalkboard-painted cabinets turn an ordinary kitchen into a multi-purpose, family-friendly hub that keeps everyone happy and engaged right where the action is.

Creative Chalkboard Paint Ideas with Vintage and Playful Flair

Thinking outside the box with chalkboard paint can result in truly unique spaces that blend charm and fun in equal measure. For example, you can rescue an old wooden door from the attic (maybe one that’s seen better days or come from a different decade entirely), and give it a new purpose as a statement art piece. Coat it with chalkboard paint, hang it in your kitchen or bathroom, and use it as a whimsical canvas—whether that’s for inspiring quotes, funny doodles, or ever-rotating to-do lists.

If you’re decorating a child’s space, consider pairing chalkboard paint with vintage accents like retro wallpaper. Imagine a cork lion from a thrifted wallpaper trotting across a chalkboard-painted lower section of the wall, giving little ones an imaginative landscape for drawing grass, flowers, or whatever else their creativity inspires. The combination of old-school design elements and a modern chalkboard surface makes for a playful and interactive backdrop in bedrooms or playrooms.

Other ideas include using reclaimed window frames or antique furniture panels as chalkboard art fixtures, or creating chalk-friendly zones alongside colorful bunting, fun light switches, or decorative molding for a custom touch. The possibilities are as endless as the designs you can draw!

Adding Typography Flair to Your Dining Room

Chalkboard paint isn’t just reserved for playrooms or offices—it can bring a stylish, personalized touch to your dining area as well. A chic way to add character (and a conversation starter) is by coating a wall or a set of panels with chalkboard paint, then using the space to handwrite your favorite quotes, dinner menus, or seasonal greetings.

This approach is both budget-friendly and endlessly customizable. If you’re feeling creative, practice your best cursive or block lettering for a sophisticated look. You could even change up the messaging for special occasions or family milestones. Whether you go bold with Rust-Oleum’s classic slate-black or softer with a blue or slate gray from Benjamin Moore or Colorhouse, the end result is a dining space with personality that can evolve whenever you like.

If you want an easy upgrade, consider framing out the area with molding or a decorative border for a finished effect. Chalkboard paint makes it simple to transform everyday dining into an experience that feels lively and uniquely yours.

Chalkboard Ceilings: Thinking Above and Beyond

If you’re feeling especially adventurous, why not take your chalkboard paint to new heights—literally—by adding it to the ceiling? This playful twist turns the “fifth wall” into a creative canvas for everything from whimsical doodles to inspirational messages. Imagine your kids lying in bed, sketching out constellations right above them or scribbling their dreams for the day ahead.

Chalkboard ceilings can also bring a unique touch to home offices (perfect for mind-mapping overhead) or even powder rooms—your guests might never want to leave! Use painter’s tape to add borders or create interesting shapes. For extra versatility, prime the ceiling first and, if you’re feeling extra fancy, use a magnetic base coat so magnets stick as well.

Just remember: for ceilings and hard-to-reach places, it’s wise to recruit a professional painter for safe, spotless results. Chalkboard paint by trusted brands like Benjamin Moore or Rust-Oleum works just as well up top as on your walls.

Chalkboard Paint vs. Black Dry-Erase Paint

Before you dive into your next project, it helps to know the difference between chalkboard paint and black dry-erase paint. While both can create a writable surface, they work a bit differently.

• Chalkboard paint gives you a classic surface that you write on with chalk. Once you’re done, just erase your masterpiece the old-fashioned way or wipe it down with a damp cloth.
• Black dry-erase paint, on the other hand, is designed for use with dry-erase markers rather than chalk. You scribble away with markers, and then clean the surface with a cloth—no chalk dust involved.

So, whether you want the nostalgic feel (and sound!) of chalk or the easy-clean convenience of dry-erase markers, you’ve got options for your creative space.