Creating A Wedding Chalkboard: A Simple Diy Guide

There are many ways to incorporate a chalkboard into your wedding, from seating charts to menus and invitations. Creating your own chalkboard is an easy and cost-effective way to add a personal touch to your big day. With just a few simple materials, such as chalkboard spray paint, chalkboard contact paper, or chalkboard vinyl sheets, you can transform a variety of surfaces into elegant signage that will wow your guests.

Using chalkboard spray paint

Step 1: Select Your Surface

Choose a smooth surface to serve as the base for your chalkboard. This could be a large MDF board, an artist's board, or even a piece of wood. You can also repurpose old items like picture frames, glass jars, dressers, or chipboard from an old sketchbook.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Ensure your chosen surface is clean and dry. If working with wood or glass, lightly sand the surface to smooth out any bumps and provide a slight texture for the paint to adhere to. Then, wipe away any dust with a dry cloth. If using a wooden surface, you can also wipe it with a damp cloth to remove remaining dust.

Step 3: Tape Off the Area

Use painter's tape and newspaper to cover any areas you do not want to paint. This will help create clean edges and protect surrounding surfaces from the spray paint.

Step 4: Apply Primer (Optional)

Although not mandatory, applying a paint primer can help the chalkboard paint adhere better to certain surfaces. Spray the primer over the surface and let it dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 5: Spray the Chalkboard Paint

Shake the can of chalkboard spray paint well before use. Spray the paint onto your prepared surface, ensuring you follow the directions on the can. Most chalkboard spray paints require at least two coats, applied in different directions and allowed to dry in between coats. For example, you can apply the first coat from top to bottom and the second coat from side to side.

Step 6: Let It Dry

Allow the chalkboard paint to dry thoroughly. The drying time may vary depending on the thickness of the paint and the weather conditions. It's best to follow the instructions on the paint can for accurate drying times.

Step 7: Lightly Sand and Wipe (Optional)

Once the paint is dry, you can lightly sand the chalkboard surface to smooth it out. Then, wipe away any dust with a dry rag.

Step 8: Apply a Second Coat of Paint

After the first coat has dried, apply a second coat of chalkboard paint, following the same spraying technique as before.

Step 9: Final Drying

Let the final coat of paint dry for at least 24 hours. Some sources recommend waiting for up to 72 hours to ensure the paint is completely cured.

Step 10: Condition the Chalkboard

To prepare your chalkboard for use, rub a piece of chalk over the entire surface and then wipe it off. This will help prevent streaks and ghosting when you start writing on your chalkboard.

Step 11: Design and Display

Now, your wedding chalkboard is ready for your creative touch! You can use chalk or chalk markers to design and decorate it according to your wedding theme. Don't forget to add a stand or a hook for wall display if needed.

Chalkboard spray paint offers a versatile and creative way to make your wedding chalkboard. Whether you're upcycling old items or transforming new surfaces, this method provides a simple and cost-effective solution for your wedding signage needs.

Repurposing an old picture frame

Source an Old Picture Frame

Look for a glass-less picture frame with an appealing design. You can find these at thrift stores, garage sales, or even in your own home. The frame should be in good condition and have a unique or "kick-butt" design that suits your wedding style.

Prepare the Frame

If you want to paint the frame, start by sanding it to ensure the paint adheres well. You can use primer to cover the original colour and create a smooth base for your new paint. Choose a paint colour that complements your wedding theme and apply it to the frame. You can use spray paint or regular paint, depending on your preference. Allow the paint to dry completely.

Create the Chalkboard Surface

There are a few ways to create the chalkboard surface:

• Chalkboard Paint: You can paint the glass of the picture frame with chalkboard paint. Apply two light coats of paint and let it dry overnight. Remember to "cure" the chalkboard paint by rubbing chalk all over it and then erasing it.
• Chalkboard Contact Paper: Remove the glass panel from the frame and set it aside. Cut a piece of chalkboard contact paper to the size of the glass panel. Carefully remove the paper backing, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles as you adhere it to the glass. Then, place the covered glass back into the frame.
• Chalkboard Sheet: Alternatively, you can purchase a chalkboard sheet from a hardware store and cut it to fit your frame. This option provides a more durable chalkboard surface.

Finishing Touches

Once your chalkboard is assembled, you can add decorative elements such as a fun chalk holder or embellishments to the frame. You can also season your chalkboard by covering it with chalk and then erasing it. This will prevent "ghosting," ensuring that your writing always looks fresh.

Display Ideas

Your wedding chalkboard can be used in a variety of ways. You can write seating assignments, menus, or even use it as a unique guest book. Display your chalkboard on an easel, hang it on a wall, or prop it up on a table. Add some floral arrangements or greenery to create a beautiful and memorable display.

Making chipboard signs

Materials:

• Chipboard (the thickness of the back of a sketchbook)
• Chalkboard spray paint
• Pencil
• Cutting mat
• X-ACTO knife
• Ruler (optional)

Instructions:

• Remove the chipboard backing from an old sketchbook.
• Draw your desired shape onto the chipboard using a pencil. You can choose any shape you like, such as cute ribbon banners, or keep it simple with a rectangular or square shape.
• Place the chipboard on a cutting mat and carefully cut out your drawn shape using an X-ACTO knife. If you need straight edges, use a ruler as a guide.
• In a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, spray three coats of chalkboard spray paint onto your cut-out shapes. Be sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the next one.
• Once you've applied the final coat, let the paint dry for a few hours. Then, your chipboard chalkboards are ready for your chalk designs! You can write on them using chalk or liquid chalk markers.

These chipboard chalkboard signs are a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding decor without breaking the bank. They can be used as wedding signs, place settings, table numbers, or even as a creative guest book. Get creative and have fun with this DIY project!

Creating a DIY photo booth

A DIY photo booth is a great way to add a fun element to your wedding without breaking the bank. Here are some steps to help you create your own:

Source a Frame

The first step is to get creative and find a frame for your photo booth. You can try scouring antique shops for a pretty, oversized frame that you can prop up or hang, creating a unique and charming photo booth experience for your guests.

Choose a Camera

For a DIY photo booth, you have several camera options. You can use a digital camera placed on a tripod with a timer function, allowing guests to take their photos without an attendant. Polaroid cameras are also a great choice as they provide instant prints, similar to a traditional photo booth. Just be sure to place your DIY photo booth near the guest book so that guests can add their snaps and leave messages.

Pick a Backdrop

Now, it's time to decide on a backdrop. You can purchase pre-designed photo backdrops or get creative and make your own. Some simple yet effective ideas include using tinsel curtains, creating a chevron-patterned backdrop with black foam board and gold sequins, or hanging Kraft paper and adding gold stripes or polka dots.

Provide Good Lighting

Good lighting is essential for great photo booth pictures. If your venue is well-lit, you may not need additional lighting equipment. Otherwise, you can use a spotlight and photography umbrella, or simply turn on the camera's flash or place a floor lamp near the backdrop.

Gather Props

Props are a must-have for any photo booth! Start with a film director's clapboard, and then add fun items like colourful ties and bowties, masks, moustaches, top hats, and oversized glasses. You can also raid your closet for unused scarves, silky gloves, and fascinators to add some unique and quirky options.

Create a Hashtag

To ensure you don't miss any photo booth pictures, create a unique wedding hashtag and display it on a cute sign. This way, you can easily find all the photos your guests take and post on social media.

Offer Instant Prints

If you want to offer your guests instant prints, consider using an Instax Share SP-2 photo printer. Guests can download an app on their smartphones, take selfies or have others take their photos, and then upload them to be printed instantly. Alternatively, you can use an instant film camera for a simpler, more low-fi option.

With these steps, you're well on your way to creating a fun and memorable DIY photo booth for your wedding!

Designing your own invitations

Chalkboards are a fun and creative way to announce your wedding and can be a unique alternative to traditional paper invitations. Designing your own chalkboard invitations allows you to add a personal touch and showcase your artistic skills or those of your friends and family. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose a Theme:

Your wedding invitations can be designed around a theme that reflects your personality and passions. If you're adventurous, you might want to create invitations that resemble parachutes, or if you're environmentally conscious, you could incorporate seeds into your design. Think outside the box and don't be afraid to get creative!

Handcrafted Elegance:

Add a touch of elegance to your invitations by enlisting the help of artistic friends or family members. You can save on printing costs and create truly unique, handcrafted invitations. Use liquid chalk markers to write on a variety of surfaces such as chalkboard, glass, porcelain, or even a repurposed mirror for an unconventional and memorable invite.

Chalkboard Contact Paper:

Chalkboard contact paper is a versatile material that can be used to create invitations with a chalkboard finish. Simply cut the paper to size, peel off the backing, and stick it onto a sturdy base, such as cardboard or wooden panels. You can then use chalk or liquid chalk markers to write your invitation details.

DIY Chalkboard Spray Paint:

For a more permanent option, you can create your own chalkboards using chalkboard spray paint. Spray a few coats onto a large MDF board or artist's board, letting each coat dry in between. Once completely dry, you can write your invitations with chalk, creating a rustic and charming effect.

Picture Frame Chalkboard:

This idea utilizes an empty picture frame and chalkboard contact paper. Remove the glass panel from the frame, cut the contact paper to size, and place it behind the glass. You can then write your invitations directly on the chalkboard surface. Choose a colourful or metallic frame to make your invitations pop.

With these ideas in mind, you can design beautiful and unique wedding invitations that will impress your guests and showcase your creativity. Get crafting, and don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and designs!

Frequently asked questions