head on chalk

One of my favorite additions to Lindsey’s loft update is the chalkboard painted walls.  Not only do they allow Lindsey and all her friends a fun way to constantly update and personalize her space, but they are seriously functional and can be high on style as well.  And a simple google search will confirm just how serious some people take their chalk!  But fear not, to achieve a stunning black and white is actually pretty easy, so if you want to up your chalkboard game, here are a few tricks and tips to do just that.  Our kitchen is one giant chalkboard so I can promise these tips are tired and true and help you achieve any look you’re after!

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Ten Ways to Ace the Blackboard

  1. Have a water bottle handy, and spray away those mistakes.  An old rag to help you out and clothspray bottleyou’re good to go, just like new.
  2. Make a plan, you don’t have to stick to it, but it does help to know what your rough draft looks like.
  3. Keep your smart phone or your laptop handy to check out clip art, fonts, and other kinds of inspiration.
  4. If you want words or lists to be level, grab a level and some washi tape – it’s not very sticky and is easy to use multiple times.  No washi tape, no problem, some painters tape or masking tape can do the trick. qtip
  5. Q-tips, just another wonderful use for cotton on a stick.  Use them to give you clean edges, blend the lines, or make any minor adjustment you need!
  6. Keep it easy and find help in everyday objects like cookie cutters, cans, cardboard.  You can make stencils, trace them or help you keep things proportionate.
  7. Don’t be afraid to embellish a little.  My kids love when I cut out their images and create a scene that incorporates their picture.  You can also buy peel and stick picture frames or if they are light enough, use real ones.  Add bows, garland, you name it.  And Elmer’s glue will come right off your wall with a little hot water later.
  8. If you want a little more help, no problem.  There are plenty of downloads and traceables to help you make your design exactly as you want.
  9. Don’t forget to check your spelling!  Standing back to admire your work only to discover a misspelled word can make for some interesting use of Q-tips.
  10. Be creative, let your imagination lead you and have fun!  Or at least have fun downloading and no one will ever be the wiser.

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So go ahead and give it a try!  And remember, no room or nook is off limits, just chalk it up!

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It doesn’t matter either if you have a wall or a board or a peel and stick removable surface, with fall on our doorsteps, and the holidays right around the corner, this is the perfect way to personally welcome them in and get your season started!  Don’t have a wall or a board? You’re still in the clear, chalkboard paint works on just about any surface, so if you can paint it, you can write and draw on it too!

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For more inspiration, tips and tricks, and just about every form of faux slate, check out my Pinterest Board, Chalk it Up!  Photo credits and links can also be found here!

Follow Messy By Design’s board Chalk it up! on Pinterest.