modern thrifter

[ CHALKBOARD WALL ]

By now, chalkboard paint isn’t that new or exciting, and I’m pretty sure that the chalkboard wall fad is quickly waning, but can I tell you how pleased I am now to finally have a little section in my kitchen for jotting down notes, lists, and announcements. I like to keep my counters free from as much clutter as possible, and I never seem to have any scrap paper around. If I put a notebook in the kitchen, two days later it will be filled—literally every page—with drawings of cars and trucks.

We have a small area above the counter and door in the kitchen that we decided would be ideal for a chalkboard. The tile backsplash (even though I don’t like the way it looks) works great as a ledge to hold the chalk and eraser. Also, it’s a spot that is nearly impossible to accidentally rub clothing against.

The process was as straightforward as any interior painting project. The hardest part was waiting the recommended three days for it to cure before drawing on it—torture! The only thing I would do differently is use a smooth foam roller, because the surface came out a little bumpier than I’d like.

Yesterday we used the wall as a spot to post the schedule for our church community group, which meets most weeks at our house. I have dreams of making even more elaborate signs and announcements, much like these amazing ones. Patrick is in complete agreement.

We also decided to use the paint to make a small rectangle on the front of two cupboards. We have our garbage and recycling in a strange spot in the kitchen because the drains under our sinks come down too low to fit the containers. Since we have guests in our house so frequently, we wanted an easy way for people to locate them when we’re not in the kitchen.

Now there are only two things left to do for this project: change out the light switch and outlets to black, and buy some dustless chalk.