Recycle an old frame by creating a magnetic chalkboard.
Add a personal touch to your home or office by creating a magnetic chalkboard. Magnetic chalkboards can be message centers for keeping track of tasks and important reminders, or it can be an area to display photos by simply adding a magnet to the back of the photo. The trick to this project is to cover a lightweight metal with either a chalkboard paint or cloth. For a quick start, you can use an old picture frame or mirror frame.
Instructions
Chalk Paint
1. Find a frame for the metal sheet by using an old mirror or picture frame. Take the frame apart by removing the back and then the mirror or glass. Use the back as a guideline for the size of your metal sheet.
2. Prime the metal sheet with a paint primer. Let dry and then repeat.
3. Paint the primed metal sheet with chalkboard paint. Let dry and repeat as necessary to fully cover.
4. Frame the magnetic chalkboard by first adding the magnetic chalkboard, then the cardboard spacer and then the backing. Secure with the original hardware.
Chalk Cloth
5. Find a frame for the metal sheet by using an old mirror or picture frame. Take the frame apart by removing the back and then the mirror or glass. Use the back as a guideline for the size of your metal sheet.
6. Spray adhesive glue on the metal sheet. Place chalk cloth on top and smooth it out so there are no air bubbles left. Let dry.
7. Frame you magnetic chalkboard by first adding the magnetic chalkboard, then the cardboard spacer and then the backing. Secure with the original hardware.
Frame From Molding
8. Measure the width and length of the magnetic chalkboard and subtract two inches from the width and add two and a half inches to the length. Purchase molding from your favorite local home or hardware store. Have the store measure and cut the molding. Use fine sandpaper to sand off any rough edges on the molding.
9. Place the magnetic chalkboard in the center of the cardboard backing. Check the measurements by placing the molding on the top and bottom and on each side. The molding should fit snugly and overlap the magnetic chalkboard by approximately one inch. Adjust as needed.
10. Outline the inside of the frame with a pencil or chalk, and remove the molding pieces. Apply glue to the back of the magnetic chalkboard by following the product directions.
11. Place the glued magnetic chalkboard on the cardboard within the outlined frame. Apply glue to the back of the molding and place the glued molding around the magnetic chalkboard on the cardboard. Let dry completely before hanging using picture hanging hardware appropriate for the weight of your magnetic chalkboard.
