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How to paint a chalkboard wall

A surface being painted with chalkboard paint

Overview

Chalkboard paint is a great way to add fun to kids bedrooms. It's also great for use in kitchens, offices and cafes. We'll show you how to paint a board you can mount on any wall. You'll also learn how to prepare your surfaces properly, and what tools to use to get the best results.

Steps

  1. 1

    Prime the MDF for the blackboard wall

    Stir the primer thoroughly and paint it on to your MDF board. Paint the edges of the board as well as the front face just in case they are visible when you mount it on the wall. Then leave the board to dry for as long as suggested on the side of the tin.
    A surface being given a basecoat of white
  2. 2

    Cover the wall with chalkboard paint

    Chalkboard paint is oil-based. Before you open the tin, make sure your work area is well-ventilated or wear a mask. Now mix the chalkboard paint in the tin and apply it to the MDF board. Use a foam roller to get a smoother finish. Once the first coat is dry, apply a second. Then your MDF is ready to mount on the wall as a chalkboard.
    A surface being painted with chalkboard paint

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Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.