How to Paint a Thrifted Chalkboard

Friend, I’m always on the hunt for thrifty smalls that are easy to update like today’s chalkboard makeover.  It’s great to be able to finish a simple makeover in just a couple hours, isn’t it?  I scored this lovely piece for only $5.99 at Goodwill…

It still had chalk dust on it and a whole bunch of other gunk.

This new makeover is a budget-friendly (and easy!) project for Trash to Treasure day with my blogging friends – you can see their creative projects near the end of this post.

*This post contains some affiliate links so you can easily find the products I recommend. Discover all my favorite brands and tools for doing DIY makeovers here.

First, I removed the hook and then gave the piece a good wipe down with a damp cloth.

Next I sanded all over with 220-grit sandpaper for smoothness.  I could tell someone else had painted this chalkboard turquoise, and now here I was, painting it yet another color.

After wiping away the sanding dust, I taped off the chalkboard with my go-to FrogTape.

I chose a neutral color – Country Chic Paint in Soiree (previously used on this planked bookcase). I applied two coats with one of my favorite Purdy paint brushes.

Here it is below, looking a little plain:

To add a little definition to the painted chalkboard, I grabbed my Rustoleum Chalked paint in Linen White. You can read my honest review of Rustoleum Chalked here and how it compares to Annie Sloan Chalk Paint.

I dipped the end of the brush ever so slightly into the paint and blotted it onto a paper towel, then dry brushed the faintest amount of paint on.

Finally, I put the hook back on.  (I didn’t have any different front-screw hooks at home, and was trying to stay budget friendly. I actually didn’t buy anything for this project other than the board itself.)

Here’s how the painted chalkboard turned out:

You can really see the white dry brushed paint close up.  I love the extra texture it gives.

This could be hung almost anywhere, but maybe in a mud room or pantry especially. It’s great for quick reminders, grocery list items, or motivational phrases.  🙂

Please Pin or share this project with someone else who might like it.  I always appreciate your support!