How to Repurpose a Picture into a Chalkboard

Today I want to share with you how we easily updated and repurposed an old picture into a chalkboard.

I’ve been thinking about my office a lot lately and how to make the space more efficient when I’m working from home. I’ll be changing up the desk area soon and while I’ve been out shopping for clients, I’ve been on the lookout for a new desk and a large chalkboard I can use as a message board too.

A few weeks ago, I was out shopping with my mom and we found a picture that had the prettiest gold frame.

Now, the picture wasn’t really my style at all. That being said, the size was perfect for creating a chalkboard I could use in my office, for party menus, and for entertaining during the holiday season too.

You might not be able to tell it in this photograph but this picture had a bit of a rough texture to it which helped to give this piece some tooth. Had the picture been smooth, we would have had to rough it up some with sandpaper.

Make sure you paint in a well-ventilated area and use a drop cloth to protect surfaces. Be sure to check the back of the chalkboard brand of paint you’re using because some paints will require you to use a primer before applying the chalkboard paint.

I hand brushed three thin coats of chalkboard paint onto the picture but this is also a great project to use a roller on because it makes for a better finish.

I allowed about 4 hours of drying time between each coat. This is after the first coat.

This is after three coats. The amount of time the chalkboard paint will need to cure depends on which brand you choose so make sure you read the back of the paint can carefully.

After the chalkboard paint had cured, we seasoned the chalkboard. If you’ve never don’t this before all you have to do is take a piece of chalk and lay it flat.

Then rub across the chalkboard paint with a piece of chalk until the entire chalkboard has been covered.

After that we wiped away the chalk dust with a clean cloth.

Since I won’t be working on my office until after the holidays, we’re going to use this chalkboard in other places around the house.

I can’t wait to share it with you!

I think it’s going to make a great addition for basic decorating and entertaining needs too.

Until next time, I’ll see you on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

Many blessings,

Coco