Ok, so maybe initially, seeing a chalkboard reminded me of math class where I sat behind a small, uncomfortable desk, trying desperately not to fall asleep as Mr. Harris wrote “X=?” formulas, then called on me to my surprise and more importantly, horror, to be the one to solve the equation in front of the whole class.

Thankfully, I survived, while also realizing math might not be the career path for me.  And lucky for all of us, chalkboards are no longer limited to just the classroom.  With the invent of chalkboard paint, we can now use them as fun and functional ways to decorate our spaces.

I recently decided to take this “old school” idea and transform a wall in this kitchen.

BEFORE:

Drab and boring galley kitchen.

AFTER:

Even though the kitchen space is small, I chose an area where the darkness of the paint wouldn’t be too overwhelming.  Not only is there a doorway, which provides room for light and air to pass, but I also decided to paint the walls white below the chair rail, keeping the area open and inviting.  And because the chalkboard is dark, almost black, I chose to write in all white chalk for higher contrast.  If I chose to use colored chalk in this instance, I would probably only use one color, maybe an accent color in the adjoining dining room so it works with its surroundings, rather than competing.  If you have a larger space or a more open space, go for color!  That would be a great way to brighten up or add life to a space.

The wonderful thing about using chalkboard paint on a wall is that you can erase your work when the mood strikes, and use it for a different purpose.  Here are a few ideas for this same kitchen wall:

1. Use it as a space to draw custom artwork.

2. Use it as a functional space to add Menu’s, To Do lists, Daily Reminders, etc. (I know, I wouldn’t want to eat this week’s menu either.  Ha!)

chalkboard wall menu

3. You can also use it to write fun or inspirational quotes and greetings.

chalkboard wall fun quote

4. And, finally, because artwork naturally pops on a black background, use it to display your art and enhance it by drawing custom frames around the piece itself.

chalkboard wall drawn frames

Love these ideas I found while searching chalkboard paint online.

Check out this kitchen idea from decor8 on Flickr, where they used a metal letter “E” and wrote the remaining letters in chalk around it.

Want to add a chalkboard wall in an area other than your kitchen?  Think of spaces in your home that might lend themselves to serve a purpose, like an entry, mud room or laundry room where you might add your grocery list or daily activities.

chalkboard wall from LivingEtc.

Or maybe, only paint a section of a wall or a highlight a nook in your home like this one from Home-Dzine.

How about in an office or craft room?  Here’s a chalkboard calendar idea from Martha Stewart.

Finally, a reason to ENCOURAGE your kids to write on the walls!  Chalkboard paint is perfect for a kid’s room.  Check out these closet doors in the play room below.

Sometimes even adults need a space to express themselves too.  Why not use a chalkboard wall as your canvas, where you feature your latest artwork, like this bedroom wall below?

Maybe you’re renting and can’t paint the walls, or maybe you want to start small and fear you may not like chalkboard paint on your wall.  If so, try something like these removeable chalkboard wall tiles from Pottery Barn.

Or use it to paint furniture and accessories, like this chair on Garage Sale Warrior or these vases.

With the endless amount of ideas, what are you waiting for?  Go get some chalkboard paint and get to work!  ;)

If you have any great ideas or have pictures you would like to share, give me a shout.  As always, I would love to hear from you.

Enjoy until next time,