Upcycle an old picture frame into chalkboard
A good upcycle DIY project is one that results in something you’ll use regularly or something that has multiple uses. This project fits the bill.
The plan is to turn an old picture frame into a chalkboard.
You’ll want to scour the shelves at your local Goodwill and find a picture frame — with glass still intact — that fits with your decor style and is the right size for your needs. If the frame itself isn’t quite right, you can paint it as well.
But back to the DIY project at hand!
Once you find a frame that fits your specifications, you’ll need to buy some chalkboard paint and chalk or chalkboard markers. I find the markers make less mess and are easier to store.
Now let’s get to it!
- Clean the frame and glass. Remove the glass from the frame.
- Following the directions on the chalkboard paint, paint or spray the glass and let dry in a well-ventilated area. I used Rustoleum chalkboard spray paint. The project took two coats of paint.
- Allow the paint to dry. Drying times vary, but 24 hours is generally a good amount of time for the glass to be completely dry and ready for chalk.
- After the paint is dry, place the glass back into the frame with the chalk side facing out.
- Now you’re ready to work your magic. Using the chalk or chalk markers, you’re free to write or draw whatever you wish.
Some good ideas for what to use the frame for include
- Dinner menu
- Chore list
- Notes for other family members or roommates
- Doodles
- Inspirational quotes
- Countdowns
- Goal counters
The possibilities are endless, and you’re free to change up what you use it for. Win win!
About the author: Kelsey Davis is the Digital Marketing & Communications Specialist at Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland & East Central Ohio, Inc.