DIY Chalkboard {For Outside}

We made this chalkboard over 10 years ago….and it is still going strong!

It has been used in so many ways…..birthday party wishes, to keep score, tic-tac-toe, messages from friends, as a story board, in many home movies as a prop, etc. I can’t even remember all the ways that we have used it.

It hangs outside on our chimney…and has for the whole 10+ years. I didn’t touch-up the pictures…you can see that it is a bit worn from being written on for so many years; but it actually doesn’t show in person and you can’t tell when you look at it.  We still use it all the time.

I thought I would share how we made it….it can be used inside or outside.  It’s the same process no matter where you decide to use it.

Here’s what you will need:

plywood cut to the size that you would like the chalkboard

chalkboard paint…brush-on {We like to use Rustoleum}

Paint brush

Other colored paint for decorating, if you wish.  We used acrylic for our vine.

Picture hanging hardware and wire for hanging {Get heavy-duty!}

Here’s how ya do it:

1.  Paint 4-5 coats of chalkboard paint on the front and sides. 1-2 coats on the back.

2. Paint any decorations that you would alike on the front…be sure to only paint around the edges like a frame…you want the center open so you can use it.

3.  Attach hanging hardware on the back.

4. Allow to dry 24-48 hours before putting outside.

5.  Hang in a fun spot!

We have never touched-up or had to repair our chalkboard….it has lasted very well. It stays outside year-round in all kinds of weather.

What projects have you been up to lately?

Blessings~

Sharing with:  Tip Junkie, Not JUST a Housewife,  Between Naps on the Porch, Thrifty Decor Chick, Funky Junk Interiors, My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia, DIY Showoff, Home Stories A to Z,  a.k.a. Design, Serenity Now, Savvy Southern Style, My Romantic Home,Uncommon Designs