We’re crazy about this smudged chalkboard wall – no words – that reminds us a bit of the chalky walls in Paolo Soleri’s Cosanti. And that got us thinking about how we might mix custom-colors of chalkboard paint (for writing or not) in colors that we LOVE, like an this odd green, or a rich midnight blue or ORANGE. Then we stumbled on a couple of posts about How-to Mix Your Own Chalkboard Paint. Easy-peasy. The most reliable-looking formula is from Martha Stewart Living. The gist is simple: you mix a spoonful of unsanded grout (we have some left over from setting bathroom floor tiles) into flat-finish latex paint. Voila! Chalkboard paint. Once you paint it on, you need to temper it with chalk (easy). Here’s the method, via Martha:
Start with flat-finish latex paint in any shade. For small areas, such as a door panel, mix 1 cup at a time.
1. Pour 1 cup of paint into a container. Add 2 tablespoons of unsanded tile grout. Mix with a paint stirrer, carefully breaking up clumps.
2. Apply paint with a roller or a sponge paintbrush to a primed or painted surface. Work in small sections, going over the same spot several times to ensure full, even coverage. Let dry.
3. Smooth area with 150-grit sandpaper, and wipe off dust.
4. To condition: Rub the side of a piece of chalk over entire surface. Wipe away residue with a barely damp sponge.
Related posts: good idea: chalkboard panel as disguise
jars with chalkboard labels to buy or d-i-y
idea maps on a ‘whiteboard’ wall
freeform chalkboards
grown-up chalkboard “art”
I love the idea of chalkboard paint in exotic colors, but…..can anyone tell me how you remove chalk board paint once you want a change?