Chalkboard Fridge: NO SANDING, NO PRIMER

*NOTE: Please disregard the quality of my photos, I was using a cell phone, yes, I have become very lazy here recently*

I haven't updated in a long while. I've had more going on than I feel I could handle at times, and felt I needed a break from things. Ironically enough - blogging has always been a saving grace. I really need to stick with it and stop being lazy :) Anyway, so I wanted to talk about the chalkboard fridge.

I first noticed the idea on the television show, "Good Luck, Charlie". I was drawn to the chalkboard fridge and thought, my, now THAT'S an idea :)

I googled to my hearts content to get ideas, and  saw many people were sanding, and priming with magnetic paint, etc.

I am far too lazy for that. I didn't want to put money into my fridge that was gifted with my home purchase in 2004 - given that I am certain it doesn't have a long life left in it.

Armed with Rustoleum's chalkboard paint, I figured I'd give it a test.

You know, the scratch test. (Paint it, let it dry scratch it with your nail, if it doesn't knick you're good to go). Oh, and because I didn't want to shell out $20-$30 for magnetic primer, I tested it with a magnet as well.

As luck would have it, it passed both tests. AND, my fridge is INDEED the bumpy surface type. (joy).

(BELOW: I've no shame, it was laundry day)

So with a tiny roller, I applied the first coat, waited a day and did the second.  And that's all it took.

Chalkboard Fridge with NO PRIMER and NO SANDING = happy mama!

(Below: Photo Sticks To Fridge WITHOUT Needing Magnetic Primer)

Really, NO magnetic primer, NO sanding, just trusty Rustoleum's chalkboard paint, all by it's lonesome.

Of course, I used Mr. Clean and wiped down the fridge and let it dry before doing any of this.

When I clean it I use a rag with Mr. Clean as well before re doing a drawing or message - keeps it nice and contrasted with out too much chalk dust.

I've had it for 2 months now, and use it all the time - works like a charm. I LOVE IT.

(Below: Bible Verse For Easter Sunday)

I love even more that it didn't cost me a dime since I had the paint left over from the kid's closet doors. I am a happy mama! - And I just may paint the entire fridge in chalkboard paint, although I am still undecided.

Dressing up an ugly slab door - Chalkboard Paint Tutorial

If you've been following my blog for a while, or just happen to check in here & there, then you know I am all about making the old new on budget. While I have slowly started to switch out the old 60's wood slab doors for the paneled versions, I decided on something different for the children's rooms.  What child wouldn't LOVE a huge chalkboard in their bedroom??  Why pay $$$ excessive money $$$ for a chalkboard that may take up space and bulk, when you can make one by up-cycling your old closet door?

SUPPLY LIST:

        * Cleaner  (you should have this at home, I used Pine-Sol).

        * 1 - 2 Large Paint Brushes (1 is fine, but I didn't want to wait to clean and cry before coats)

        * White Primer (PRIMER, not white paint) ;)) (I had some on hand already)

        * Valspar Black Chalkboard Paint (or equivalent) 1qt. can will be plenty. $20 or less

       

 * Chalk (Dollar Tree AND Wal mart both have big packs for a buck).

How To:

1.) Fill a small bucket with warm water and add 2 caps of Pine Sol; with an old dish rag scrub down the door (or surface) really well.  

2.)  Let the door air dry COMPLETELY (I waited an hour because the humidity here has been horrid).

3.) Open your Primer, stir & apply about 2-3 coats to front (and back if you want double painted doors), or until ALL of the door is evenly covered (you can use a roller brush, BUT it tends to leave texture, and won't make your chalkboard surface smooth).

4.) Wait a day or two for paint to cure & apply 2-3 coats of chalkboard paint. WAIT at least an hour before applications. THREE codes is highly recommended for FULL coverage and durability.

5.)  Let dry for 48-72 hours to fully cure ANNNNND.

                                   S U R P R I S E  the little ones with CHALK !! ;))

This also makes a budget Christmas or Birthday gift. I wouldn't worry too much on resale on your home because of the door; not only does it serve as a great activity to keep the little one's interested, it can also serve in a home office. E N J O Y  : D

                                                                       //Jen  :))