Creating Wedding Chalkboards: A Simple Diy Guide

Chalkboards are a popular trend for rustic weddings. They can be used in many ways, such as for wedding signs, photo booths, wedding cakes, invitations, seating arrangements, and menus. You can make your own chalkboard wedding signs using chalkboard spray paint on a board or using chalkboard contact paper with an empty picture frame.

Characteristics of Wedding Chalkboards

Using chalkboard spray paint

Wedding chalkboards are a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your big day. Using chalkboard spray paint is a simple way to make your own chalkboards for your wedding. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect chalkboard for your wedding:

Preparation

Firstly, you need to choose the right surface for your chalkboard. Chalkboard spray paint can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, glass, and more. Ensure that your surface is smooth and sand down any wooden or glass surfaces if necessary. It is important to note that chalkboard spray paint should not be applied to bumpy surfaces as it may damage your items. Once you have prepared your surface, use a dry rag to wipe away any dust from the sanding.

Protection

Before you start painting, protect the areas you do not want to paint. Use painter's tape to cover these areas, ensuring the tape is a different colour from your chosen paint colour. You can also use a cover, such as newspaper or an old sheet, to protect the rest of the object. If using a cover, be sure to secure it to the surface to prevent accidental spray on unwanted areas.

Priming

It is important to prime your surface before applying chalkboard spray paint. Apply a paint primer over the entire surface and allow it to dry completely, which usually takes about 30 minutes. It is recommended to ask your paint provider if there is a designated primer for chalkboard paint.

Painting

Now for the fun part! Take your chalkboard spray paint and start spraying! Cover the primed area evenly and thoroughly. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step. The drying time will depend on the thickness of the paint and weather conditions if painting outdoors.

Finishing Touches

Once the paint is dry, lightly sand the surface again and wipe away the dust with a rag. Apply another coat of paint and let it dry for 72 hours. Finally, condition the surface by laying a piece of chalk on the board and rubbing it in thoroughly. Wipe away the excess chalk and remove the painter's tape. Your chalkboard is now ready for your beautiful wedding designs!

Chalkboard spray paint is a versatile and creative way to add a unique touch to your wedding. With the right preparation and technique, you can transform any surface into a functional and decorative chalkboard.

Repurposing picture frames

Repurposing old picture frames is a great way to create unique and personalised wedding chalkboards while also being environmentally conscious. Here are some tips and ideas to get you started:

Finding the Right Frames

Start by searching for vintage frames in your home, especially in places like attics, basements, or closets. You can also explore thrift stores, yard sales, and second-hand shops for unique frames at affordable prices. Keep an eye out for frames with character, such as those with interesting shapes, sizes, and styles that will make your wedding chalkboards stand out. Don't be afraid to ask friends and family if they have any old frames they no longer need—you might find some hidden gems!

Gathering Materials and Tools

Once you've chosen your frames, gather the necessary materials and tools. This includes painting supplies like chalkboard paint, brushes, and primer. You'll also need various adhesives such as glue, staple guns, or nails, depending on your specific project. Consider decorative elements like fabric, ribbons, or additional frames to create a layered effect. Basic tools like screwdrivers, pliers, scissors, and sandpaper will come in handy for adjustments and repairs.

Planning Your Project

Before starting, define the purpose and intention of your wedding chalkboards. Will they be purely decorative, or do you want them to serve a functional purpose, such as displaying seating charts or menus? Sketch out your ideas and plan the layout to visualise the final result. Prepare your workspace by covering surfaces to protect them from paint and other materials.

Creating the Chalkboards

Start by cleaning the frames to remove any dust or grime. Disassemble the frames carefully to access the glass or backing. You can paint over the glass with chalkboard paint, but make sure to apply a coat of primer first to prevent the wood grain from showing through. Apply two light coats of chalkboard paint and let it dry overnight. Cure the surface by rubbing chalk all over it and then erasing the excess.

Adding Personal Touches

Embellish your chalkboards with personal touches like monograms, stencils, or artwork. You can also add decorative elements like flowers, ribbons, or fabric to match your wedding theme. If you're feeling creative, try making a collage of vintage frames in different sizes and styles to create a unique backdrop for your chalkboards.

Displaying Your Creations

Finally, find the perfect spot to display your wedding chalkboards. They can be hung on walls using traditional hanging methods or adhesive strips, or placed on easels or stands. Your creations will add a touch of charm and personality to your wedding, and your guests will surely admire your creativity and craftsmanship!

Creating table-top signs

MDF Chalkboard

For this project, you will need a large MDF board or artist's board and some chalkboard spray paint. Start by spraying three coats of the paint onto one side of your board, letting each coat dry in between. It's important to do this in a well-ventilated area or outdoors, and be sure to protect your work surface with kraft paper, cardboard, or newspaper. Once the final coat is dry, you can add your own chalk lettering. This is a simple and cost-effective way to create table-top signs that can be used to welcome guests, display the menu, or provide seating assignments.

Picture Frame Chalkboard

This idea puts a new twist on an old picture frame! You will need an empty picture frame with a glass panel and some chalkboard contact paper. First, remove the glass panel from the frame. Then, unroll the contact paper with the paper backside facing up and place the glass panel on top. Trace around the glass and cut out the shape with scissors. Peel up the paper backing and carefully line it up with the top of the glass panel, smoothing out any bubbles as you go. Finally, place the covered glass back into the frame, and you're ready to add your chalk lettering! Choose a colourful or metallic frame for added impact.

Chipboard Chalkboard Signs

This project is a great way to upcycle leftover chipboard from an old sketchbook. Start by removing the chipboard backing and drawing your chosen shape onto the chipboard with a pencil. Cut out your shape using an X-ACTO knife and a ruler for straight edges. Spray three coats of chalkboard spray paint onto your shape, letting each coat dry in between. Once the final coat is dry, you can add your chalk designs. These small, simple signs are perfect for table-top accents or as part of a larger display.

With these ideas and a little creativity, you can easily make your own wedding chalkboards that are both unique and budget-friendly!

Making wedding favours

Wedding favours are a thoughtful way to thank your guests for sharing your special day. Here are some ideas for creating your own wedding favours with a chalkboard theme:

Chalkboard Plant Pots: Source small, terracotta plant pots and paint them with chalkboard paint. You can then write a personalised message to each guest with liquid chalk. These could be placed at each table setting with a small plant or flower inside. Alternatively, you could fill them with sweets or other treats. This idea also works well with small tins or buckets.

Chalkboard Tags: Create your own chalkboard tags by cutting out rectangles of chalkboard contact paper. You can then stick these to wedding favours such as small jars of honey, jam, or bottles of wine. Write each guest's name and a short message on the tag. If you wish to add extra decoration, you could tie a ribbon or twine around the neck of the jar or bottle.

Chalkboard-Inspired Stationery: For a simple and elegant favour, consider creating personalised, chalkboard-inspired stationery for your guests. This could include notecards, postcards, or small notebooks. You can achieve a chalkboard effect by printing on black card or paper with white or light-coloured ink. Add decorations such as a chalk-style font, or a small chalkboard-style illustration.

Chalkboard Picture Frames: Source small, wooden picture frames and paint them with chalkboard paint. Your guests can then use these to display a favourite photo from the wedding. Alternatively, you could place a polaroid photo of each guest at their place setting, inside a chalkboard-themed frame. This creates a unique and memorable favour.

When creating your wedding favours, don't be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touches. You can also involve your bridal party, family, or friends in the making process, making it a fun group activity.

Designing invitations

Chalkboards are a popular trend for rustic weddings, and invitations are a great way to introduce your wedding theme to your guests. Here are some ideas for designing your own chalkboard-inspired wedding invitations:

Chalkboard-inspired stationery:

This idea is perfect if you want to incorporate a chalkboard accent into your wedding. You can use chalkboard-inspired stationery as your invitation base. You can find chalkboard-inspired paper at craft stores or online. If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own chalkboard paper by spraying chalkboard spray paint onto card stock or artist's board. Let each coat dry before adding your text and designs with chalk or liquid chalk markers.

Save on printing costs:

If you want to save on printing costs, you can enlist the help of artistic friends, family, or students at your local art school to handcraft your invitations. This adds a personal touch to your invitations and can be a fun project for your loved ones to get involved in. You can provide them with the necessary materials, such as chalkboard paper and markers, and let their creativity flow.

Unconventional materials:

Think outside the box when it comes to your invitation materials. For an unconventional and unique look, you can use repurposed mirrors or chalkboard vinyl sheets stuck to wooden panels or cardboard. This will give your invitations a creative and memorable touch. You can write on these surfaces with chalk or liquid chalk markers, which come in various colours, including neon and metallic.

Elegant designs:

Keep your designs elegant and sophisticated. You can use calligraphy or elegant fonts for the text and add simple chalk drawings or flourishes. If you're not confident in your drawing skills, you can find online tutorials or letter stencils to help you create beautiful designs. Consider adding some leafy green florals or natural elements to your invitations, as chalkboards pair well with these organic accents.

With these ideas in mind, you can create beautiful and unique chalkboard wedding invitations that will impress your guests and set the tone for your special day.

Frequently asked questions