DIY Chalkboard

There is a large wall that needed a little something in the kids play area. While I wanted something "kid like" yet still adult friendly and usable after the kids get older it also had to be fun for everyone.

So my solution....a chalkboard!!

First, I measured the area and decided on the perfect size. We purchased chalkboard paint and molding of our choice from Lowes. 

Here is the photo after 2 coats of chalkboard paint.

After allowing it to dry completely  we then moved on to framing our chalkboard. The Mr.  used a miter saw to cut the edges. We chose several different moldings, the top and sides are the same but for the bottom I wanted a piece a little different. I wanted the chalk to be able to sit in the bottom like a real chalkboard. In order to do that the larger flat peice in the bottom photo went on the bottom first. Then the top decorative molding went on top of the flat peice slightly higher and level with the side molding. This allows a gap to hold the chalk.

Once the molding was nailed into place, we used caulk to finish off the corners at the bottom (where the different moldings meet) to give it a more finished look and to keep chalk dust from getting into the cracks.

 The chalkboard (black area) measures 7&1/2ft x 5ft. This is fun for the kids and for the adults now but even when the kids grow up and this area is no longer a kids area this chalkboard will still work in a new design.  Now I just need to finish the rest of the kids play area! Any ideas?

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