Join Christa for her tutorial on how she turned picture frames into little chalkboards that will hold Christmas stockings!
Materials:
Wooden picture frame
All-in-One Clay based paint in Cranberry Sauce and Rocky Mountain
Fine grit sandpaper
Brown paper bag
Chalkboard chalk
Lint-free rag
Hanging Hardware
Twine
Step 1: Prep the frame
Make sure it’s clean and free of dust and debris. Remove the center backing board. If it’s not raw wood, give it a quick scuff sand.
Step 2: Paint the frame and centerboard
Give the paint a good shake and stir for at least a minute. Apply the paint using an Artist Brush, I used the largest one. For the frame I used Cranberry Sauce for the backing board I used Rocky Mountain. Apply the paint in thin coats - two thin coats are better than one thick one. Let the paint dry between coats.
Step 3: Smooth the backing board surface
Since this will be the surface you’ll be writing on with chalk, you want it to be as smooth as possible. So once the paint is dry, buff it with fine grit sandpaper - 200 grit or higher. To get the smoothest, surface possible buff again with a brown paper bag.
Step 4: Prime the chalkboard
Before writing on the chalkboard it’s best to prime it using a piece of chalk. Rub the side of the chalk along the painted board so that the entire surface is covered. Using a different side of the brown paper bag buff the chalkboard until the chalk is completely absorbed.
Step 5: Seal the frame with wax
After the frame has dried for at least 24 hours use Gold Wax to seal it and add a gilded tone to the frame. Use a lint-free rag - an old t-shirt works - to apply the Gold Wax making sure to get it in the nooks and crannies of the frame. Using the same lint-free rag, buff the wax until it feels smooth and dry to the touch.
Step 6: Add hanging hardware and assemble the frame
You can find frame hanging hardware at most hardware or craft stores. I placed a hook in the center of the frame for my stocking to hang from. To hang the frame from my mantel I used some twine tied in a bow. However you can also use the saw-tooth frame hanging hardware instead.
Now you’re ready to write your initial in chalk on the chalkboard and hang the frame on your mantel. When Santa goes to fill the stockings, he will be able to easily find yours! 😉
