DIY Chalkboard using an Old Picture Frame

Chalkboards are not just for the classroom anymore. Follow along to see how I transformed an old framed print into a beautiful, framed chalkboard.

I’ve been wanting to work on this DIY project for a very long time. In fact, I’ve had an old framed print sitting in my garage for many, many years. I wasn’t sure what I would do with it at first, but I knew that I really liked the frame and it would eventually come in handy for a DIY project.

Looks somewhat tired and old, but the frame has potential!

Items used for the framed chalkboard

Old frame, 36″ X 24″
Sheet of Dry Erase Board/Chalkboard from Lowe’s
Waverly Chalk Paint, Plaster
Waverly Antique Wax
Window Push Points
Putty Knife
Pliers
Wire and D-rings for hanging the chalkboard
Chalk and eraser

I started this DIY project by removing the print from the old frame. I had to use pliers to remove all the metal hardware from the back of the frame. Also I cleaned the frame by wiping it down with warm soapy water and a cloth. After it dried it was ready to paint.

I covered my table surface with newspaper to catch any paint drips.

After applying the first coat of Waverly Plaster Chalk Paint, I decided it needed a second coat in order to have thorough coverage.

After the paint dried, I lightly brushed the frame with Waverly Antique Wax.

After the wax dried, it was time to put the Lowe’s chalkboard into the frame. Initially I was going to use chalkboard paint; I even purchased a can. But then I discovered the Dry Erase Board/Chalkboard at Lowe’s for around $6. The board was exactly the size I needed, 24″ X 36″. How could I go wrong?

To hold the Dry Erase/Chalkboard in the frame I used Window Push Points (from Lowe’s) and a putty knife.

Using the flat tip of the putty knife, I pushed the window push points into the frame at about six to eight inch intervals. I probably used about twenty by the time I was finished. It took a little bit of “elbow grease” to get those things attached, but I was determined.

After making sure the chalkboard was secure, I then put a wire hanger with D-rings on the back. (I didn’t get a picture of that)

I’m loving the way this framed chalkboard looks!

Before using a new chalkboard, it is necessary to “season” or “prime” it. If this step is skipped, the surface of the chalkboard will retain a faint image of the first thing written on it. It’s really easy to do; just cover the entire surface with chalk and wipe it off.