DIY Craft: Creating Your Own Charcoal Blackboard
In a collaborative effort, Krista and the author have created a unique and eco-friendly DIY project that breathes new life into an old dresser mirror, turning it into a functional chalkboard. This project is an excellent way to reduce waste and add a touch of creativity to your home decor.
### Supplies Needed: - Chalkboard paint (select a colour of your preference) - Painter's tape - Sandpaper (optional, for surface preparation) - Primer (optional, depending on mirror backing) - Paintbrush or foam roller - Drop cloth or protective covering for your workspace - Chalk or chalk markers for writing on the finished board
### Process Steps:
1. **Prepare the Mirror:** - Remove the mirror glass from the dresser frame, if possible, or ensure the mirror surface is clean and dry. - If the mirror is glossy, lightly sand the surface with fine sandpaper to help the paint adhere better. - Clean off any dust or debris after sanding.
2. **Protect Surrounding Areas:** - Use painter’s tape to mask off the edges and frame of the mirror to avoid getting paint where you don’t want it.
3. **Prime the Surface (Optional):** - If the mirror surface is very smooth or glossy, apply a primer suitable for glass or slick surfaces to ensure good adhesion of chalkboard paint.
4. **Apply Chalkboard Paint:** - Using a paintbrush or foam roller, apply an even layer of chalkboard paint onto the mirror surface. - Let the first coat dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. - Apply a second coat if needed for full coverage and durability.
5. **Cure the Chalkboard Paint:** - Allow the paint to cure fully, which could take a few days depending on the product used.
6. **Season the Chalkboard:** - Once dry, season the chalkboard by rubbing the side of a piece of chalk over the entire surface and then erasing it. This prepares the surface for writing.
7. **Reattach the Mirror or Frame (if removed):** - Put the mirror back into the dresser frame if you took it out earlier.
8. **Decorate and Use:** - Use chalk or chalk markers to write on your new chalkboard dresser mirror.
### Additional Tips: - Select high-quality chalkboard paint for a smoother writing surface. - If you prefer a vintage or distressed look, you might also paint or stain the frame before the project. - Some creators have used mirror spray paint combined with chalkboard paint for interesting effects if you want to preserve some reflective qualities[1].
This DIY project is part of a broader trend in creative project guides, including chalkboard paint crafts and mirror repurposing DIYs[2][3][5].
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[1] Source: https://www.hometalk.com/547731/mirror-chalkboard-diy-5-ways-to-make-a-mirror-into-a-chalkboard [2] Source: https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/projects/how-to-make-a-chalkboard-from-an-old-window [3] Source: https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/bathrooms/how-to-make-a-chalkboard-shower-wall [4] Source: https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-make-a-chalkboard-wall-1402538 [5] Source: https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/chalkboard-paint-crafts-4127154
This eco-friendly DIY project, a collaboration between Krista and the author, not only breathes new life into an old dresser mirror but also encourages sustainability by reducing waste and adding a touch of creativity to your home decor. By following the provided steps to create a functional chalkboard dresser mirror using chalkboard paint, you can incorporate this creative lifestyle choice into your home-and-garden décor.
