I keep thinking that chalkboards and chalk art are “on their way out” as far as trends go, but then I find a new way to love them.

Did you know that milk paint can be used as a “chalkboard paint”?  Well, this post is my way of telling you it can!

I learned this a few years ago when I was working on a hand painted dresser.  I like the chalk out the designs prior to painting them, so I know I like the look, movement, symmetry, etc.  As I was working on the piece, I kept wiping the chalk away, and then made new marks.

Somewhere during this process, it finally hit me.  This is a chalkboard!

Just apply milk paint (2-3 coats, so the finish is built up) and do not apply a finish.  The matte milk paint makes a perfect chalkboard surface.

The best part is that you don’t have to buy a specialty paint (that’s definitely not all natural) AND you customize the color of your chalkboard.

Lately, I’ve been in love with this “vintage green chalkboard” color recipe…

It looks like a darker, richer green when it’s first applied…

…and the trick to making it look like a chalkboard is to “season” it with chalk.  Rub chalk over the entire surface and then erase it with a dry cloth to retain the “smeary chalk” look.

You can use it to create a literal chalkboard, which is an economical way to fill a large, old frame (and cheap wall art, for that matter)…

…or you can make a piece of chalkboard furniture!

I love this idea for a kid’s room, because you can change the chalk art to suit their age or the room’s decor.  (And, remember you can do this on any color of paint!)

As I said in another recent post, milk paint is so versatile.  Five all natural ingredients, but a million ways to put it to good use!