What can I do with old chalkboard slate?

Aeron
by Aeron
I have 3 large pieces of blackboard slate I obtained years ago when an old elementary school was being torn down. Each piece is 42" x 49" and 1/4" thick. Can I use it to make kitchen countertops? If so, would I use a tile saw to cut it? And does it need to be treated or sealed with anything? What other uses might it have?
  8 answers
  • Elizabeth Dion Elizabeth Dion on May 10, 2017

    Got any grandchildren? I'd find a spot to hang a piece for them to draw on. You could also cut down a piece, frame it in and hang it on your kitchen door. Great place to run a grocery list on or use it for 'Command Central' space in your home to keep track of everyone's comings and goings. Not sure what type of saw you would need to cut it but I'm sure the employees at Lowe's or Home Depot could advise you.

    • Aeron Aeron on May 10, 2017

      Thank-you for the ideas. No kids/grandkids... and I live solo, so I'm the only one who needs to know where I'm going and when. My shopping list goes straight onto my smartphone, before I forget. I guess I'm looking for uses other than a chalkboard. You are right. The folks at the hardware or big box stores will likely know how to cut the slate. Thanks.


  • DebraLW DebraLW on May 11, 2017

    I don't know about kitchen countertops. I wouldn't think they would hold up to the wear & tear. I think hanging them would be better. Or making an entire focal wall. Do you have a worksho? Great for drawing out ideas, listing materials, etc.

  • Dysko7710 Dysko7710 on May 11, 2017

    You could use them to make a table, or several tables maybe? Would be fun for guests to have a blackboard table to sketch on. Just an idea, not sure how it might work out practically speaking.

  • C. D. Scallan C. D. Scallan on May 11, 2017

    If you can't find a way to use them in your own home , check with local churches . Bible studies and religion classes for children would probably not turn them away .

  • Aeron Aeron on May 11, 2017

    Thank you everybody, for your suggestions. I think I'll be using some for a fireplace surround and hearth. And the rest for countertop. I've found a site that explains how to do it.

  • Mogie Mogie on Aug 17, 2023

    Put it in a child's room. Attach it to a wall in a child's playroom or club house. Great place for a grocery list.

  • I don't think it will holdup as a countertop. I would mount it on a wall.

  • Dee Dee on Aug 18, 2023

    If I had that slate, I'd likely just put frames around them, or cut them into smaller pieces and make chalkboards for pool tables, dart cabinets or make a bunch of sandwich boards for bistros board in your kitchen. Like weekly menu's.

    You could also build a small pool table for kids.