DIY Magnetic Chalkboard

by Vernichel // created by v.

5 Materials

Are there things you collect when you travel? Maybe shot glasses or coffee mugs? Well, I collect magnets.
My refrigerator is covered with magnets from all parts of the world that serve as a sweet reminder of my wanderlust years. I recently decided to organize my collection and came across a tutorial that used a cookie sheet covered with fabric.
It was just the spark of inspiration I needed to create this: a framed piece of sheet metal covered in chalkboard paint and hung with nautical rope from a boat cleat.

diy magnetic chalkboard, chalkboard paint, crafts

Have I inspired you to create one of your very own? Kindly allow me to assist with some thrifty advice and a simple tutorial.

{STEP 1} Buy a frame from a local thrift store.

I got this frame with a 24x36" opening for $14.96. You'll be hard-pressed to find that size for that price anywhere else.

Since I planned to hang my chalkboard from a galvanized cast iron boat cleat, I spray painted the frame a metallic silver. The hubby kindly sandblasted the cleat for a cleaner finish, so I spray painted it to match, too.

{STEP 2} Buy sheet metal from the ductwork section of your home improvement store.

A 24x36" piece of sheet metal in the hardware section will run you about $20 while the same size sheet from ductwork is less than $10. The cheaper option is plenty for what we're going to do. If you do opt for the more expensive sheet metal, do not buy aluminum; magnets will not stick to it.

{STEP 3} Prep your sheet metal.

Gently rub the surface with a fine steel wool pad before painting to help the paint adhere better. I was so excited to try out the chalkboard paint that I skipped this step. My kids quickly showed me the error of my ways...

A few extra coats of paint quickly fixed the problem. Giving it another light rub with the steel wool pad after the paint dries produces a nicer finish as well. Just be sure to have proper ventilation and wear a mask to avoid inhalation of metal dust.

{STEP 4} Apply 3-4 coats of chalkboard paint.

I tried a few different ways to apply the paint - foam brush, a roller with some nap - and finally decided upon a smooth roller as the best option.

This is what it will look like after the first coat. You'll think I led you astray, but never fear. After a few more coats, you'll have a perfectly black chalkboard.

I painted my sheet metal outside on a rather warm day so I was able to apply several coats in a single day. I waited about an hour between coats, and then let it dry overnight before I seasoned it.

{STEP 5} Season your chalkboard.

Once the paint is dry and before the first use, you'll want to use the side of a piece of chalk and cover the entire surface. This will get the chalk into all the nooks and crannies and prevent "ghost images" from occurring.

{STEP 6} Hang and enjoy!

We are a proud Navy household so I like to include nautical designs in our decor. This boat cleat and nautical rope are fun ways to hang my new magnetic chalkboard, don't you think?

Now not only can I display my magnet obsession {yes, I turned those seashells into magnets with a little glob of hot glue}, but I can also share my profound thoughts in chalk. Like,

"Don't forget to buy dog food."

"Kitchen closed. Fend for yourselves."

Or some more charming life advice from the ocean. Enjoy! -- v.

Enjoyed the project?

You can do it! Saved to your projects

6" galvanized cast iron boat cleat (http://amzn.to/1T4poxD)
1/2" nautical rope in natural white (http://amzn.to/1WpSs9h)
24x36" sheet metal (http://www.lowes.com/pd_50186-85334-GVL0108___?productId=3234805&pl=1&Ntt=sheet+metal)
Chalkboard paint (http://www.lowes.com/pd_203261-4-007.0203261.005___?productId=3080751&pl=1&Ntt=chalkboard+paint)
Frame with 24x36" opening (thrift store)