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DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial

May 15, 2013 By Erin Spain 6 Comments

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

I was honored to be asked recently by RYOBI Tools to have a project featured on their RYOBI Nation site. Since I am still a power tool “novice,” I knew I had to come up with a relatively easy and manageable project for them to feature, especially since I would be using a few power tools that were totally new to me. I opted to make this DIY Framed Chalkboard, and I’m excited to share a my framed chalkboard tutorial with you today!

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

What I used:

  • A leftover scrap of PureBond Plywood (My chalkboard size is 19″x42″ because that’s what I had on hand.)
  • Door Frame Moulding
  • Spray Primer
  • Rust-Oleum Chalkboard Spray Paint
  • RYOBI Orbital Sander
  • RYOBI 10 in. Sliding Compound Miter Saw with Laser
  • RYOBI 18V One+ Cordless Brad Nailer
  • 18 GA 5/8″ brad nails
  • Staining Cloths
  • Minwax American Walnut stain
  • Minwax Polycrylic
  • Paint Brush

Step 1
Cut your PureBond Plywood (or whatever material you choose to use) down to the desired dimensions. The home improvement store will do this for you if you give them your measurements, or you can do it yourself. I used a scrap of leftover plywood and just left it “as is.” Sand it smooth.

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

Step 2
Spray the wood with a coat of primer, and then spray with 2-3 coats of Chalkboard Spraypaint. I used Rust-Oleum.

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

Step 3
Measure and cut your moulding for the frame using a miter saw. Use 45 degree miter cuts to form the corners.

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

Step 4
Stain your frame. I used a pre-conditioner and then applied one coat of Minwax American Walnut stain, and added a topcoat of Minwax Polycrylic.

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

Step 5
Attach your frame to the chalkboard using wood glue and a brad nailer.

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

Step 6
Lean or hang your chalkboard. I opted to lean mine against the wall, but you can also add D-rings and hang it. Another option is to add thin moulding around the edges to hide the raw edge of your wood. I chose not to do this since it isn’t noticeable where I placed it in my home.

DIY Framed Chalkboard Tutorial via DIYontheCheap.com

Note: Always wear proper safety gear and use extreme caution when using power tools!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

Will you be giving this project a try? What would you write on your chalkboard? Let me know!

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY THESE POSTS:

  • DIY Entryway Bench Plans and Tutorial
  • DIY Wood and Nailhead Headboard
  • DIY Outdoor Serving Station
  • DIY Swiss Cross Planter

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Filed Under: DIY, Home & DIY Blog, Tutorials, Woodworking

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