Creating Wedding Signs: Diy Chalkboard Method

Chalkboard signs have become a popular choice for wedding decor, and it's easy to see why. They're a fun, affordable, and creative way to add a personal touch to your big day. With just a few simple steps, you can make your own chalkboard wedding signs that will impress your guests and save you money. All you need are some basic materials like chalkboard paint, a surface to paint on, and chalk or chalk pens. You can even get creative and upcycle items like old picture frames or chipboard. Whether you're a DIY pro or a beginner, making your own chalkboard wedding signs is a fun and rewarding experience that will surely make your wedding extra special.

Using chalkboard spray paint on a board

Preparation:

First, you will need to gather your materials. For this project, you will require a board (MDF or artist's board is recommended), chalkboard spray paint, painter's tape, newspaper or kraft paper, cardboard, sandpaper, a dry rag, and a paint primer. Ensure you have a well-ventilated workspace, as the spray paint can produce strong fumes. Protect your work area by laying down kraft paper, cardboard, or newspaper.

Sand and Prime:

Before painting, it is essential to prepare the surface of your board. Start by lightly sanding the board with sandpaper. This will smooth out any bumps and provide a slight texture for the paint to adhere to. After sanding, use a dry rag to wipe away any dust. Next, apply a coat of paint primer to the board and let it dry completely.

Spray Painting:

Once the primer is dry, you can begin spray painting. Shake the can of chalkboard spray paint well before use, following the instructions on the can. Spray paint the board with a light, even coat. Allow this first coat to dry, and then lightly sand the surface again with fine-grit sandpaper. Wipe away any dust with a dry rag. Apply a second coat of chalkboard spray paint and let it dry for at least 72 hours.

Conditioning:

After the final coat of paint has dried, it's time to condition the chalkboard surface. Take a piece of chalk and lay it on its side. Rub the chalk over the entire surface of the board. This will help prepare the chalkboard for writing and make it easier to erase your markings. Once the board is fully covered, wipe away the chalk with a dry cloth.

Finishing Touches:

Your chalkboard wedding sign is now ready for lettering! You can use regular chalk or chalk markers to write your chosen message. To ensure the best results, it is recommended to wait at least 7 days after conditioning before wiping down the board with mild soap and water. Repeat the conditioning step after cleaning.

With these simple steps, you can create a beautiful and functional chalkboard wedding sign that will add a unique touch to your special day.

Using chalkboard contact paper on a picture frame

First, remove the glass panel from the picture frame and set the frame aside. Next, unroll the chalkboard contact paper with the paper backside facing up, and place the glass panel on top. Trace the glass panel with a pencil, then cut along the pencil lines with scissors. Peel back the paper backing from the contact paper, starting at the top of the glass panel, and smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles as you go. Carefully place the contact paper-covered glass back into the frame and secure the frame.

Now you're ready to add your own chalk lettering! Using a white, colourful, or metallic frame will make your lettering pop against the matte black chalkboard paper. Prop up your new chalkboard wedding sign, and you're done!

Using chalkboard paint on chipboard

Step 1: Prepare the Chipboard

Start by laying down newspaper or a large cloth to protect your work area. Then, inspect your chipboard to ensure it's clean and free of any grease or moisture, as this can affect paint adhesion. Consider wearing rubber gloves when handling the chipboard to prevent leaving fingerprints or other marks.

Step 2: Sand the Chipboard

Use medium-grit sandpaper to gently sand the entire chipboard surface. This step helps create a smoother finish and improves paint adhesion. Continue sanding until the surface feels smooth, and then wipe it down with a dry cloth to remove any remaining dust or debris.

Step 3: Apply Primer

Primer acts as a protective barrier and helps seal the porous surface of the chipboard. It is essential to use a primer designed for chipboard or interior wood applications. Wear protective gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when applying the primer. Use a roller to apply thin, even coats of primer, allowing each coat to dry before adding another. Applying multiple thin coats will create a stronger barrier.

Step 4: Choose the Right Chalkboard Paint

Select a paint that is compatible with wood surfaces and suitable for interior use. Look for paint with good adhesion, such as chalkboard spray paint or acrylic paint. Avoid paints with a heavy water or oil base, as they will soak into the chipboard and result in an uneven finish.

Step 5: Paint the Chipboard

When using chalkboard spray paint, follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure proper ventilation. Spray three coats of paint onto the chipboard, allowing each coat to dry in between. For acrylic paint, use a roller to apply the paint evenly, and then add 2-3 more layers, depending on the desired colour depth.

Step 6: Final Touches

After the final coat of paint has dried, your chipboard chalkboard is almost ready! If desired, you can add a coat of clear sealant to protect your paint job and give it a glossy finish. Allow the sealant to dry completely before handling the chalkboard or using it for your wedding signage.

With these steps, you can create beautiful and budget-friendly chalkboard wedding signs using chipboard and chalkboard paint. Get creative with your designs, and don't forget to test your chalk art before the big day!

Using chalk pens for a permanent design

Firstly, you'll need to paint your surface with chalkboard paint. You may need to use a couple of coats of paint to get even coverage. While your paint is drying, create the wording or design for your sign on your computer and print it out. Make sure you size your message to the size of your sign.

On the non-printed side of your paper, scribble all over with a pencil. You want to make sure your scribbles cover your entire design. Once your sign is dry, place your printed design on top, with the printed design facing up. Secure your design to the sign so it doesn't move, and then use your pen to trace your design. This will transfer your design to your sign with the pencil lead that is on the back of the paper.

Once you've traced the entire design, lift your paper. You should be able to see the outline of your design on your sign. Now, use your chalk pen to outline and fill in your design. Using a chalk pen will give you clean, crisp lines, and the design will be permanent.

If you want a more authentic chalkboard appearance, use the side of a piece of chalk to shade in the entire sign. Then, blend it all together with a dry paper towel.

Priming the chalkboard with chalk

To prime your chalkboard, you will need a piece of chalk and a clean, dry rag.

Take a piece of chalk and rub it all over the chalkboard. Make sure to cover the entire surface. Then, take your clean, dry rag and wipe down the board. You will notice that the board is no longer a stark black colour but has a lighter hue. This step is crucial to ensure that your chalkboard is primed and ready for your calligraphy or design.

There are a few different ways to create a chalkboard for your wedding signs. One method is to use chalkboard spray paint on a large MDF board or artist's board. You will need to spray three coats of paint, letting each coat dry in between. Another option is to use an empty picture frame with a glass panel. Remove the glass panel and cover it with chalkboard contact paper. You can also upcycle leftover chipboard, such as the back of an old sketchbook, and cut out your desired shape using an X-ACTO knife. Spray three coats of chalkboard spray paint on your cut-out shape and let it dry.

Once you have created your chalkboard, you can start designing your wedding signs. You can create your wording or design on a computer and print it out, making sure to size it appropriately for your sign. Place the printed design on top of your chalkboard and secure it in place. Then, use a pen to trace your design, transferring it onto the chalkboard. After removing the paper, you can use chalk or chalk pens to outline and fill in your design. If you want a more authentic chalkboard appearance, shade in the entire sign with the side of a piece of chalk and blend it with a dry paper towel.

Frequently asked questions