I've seen the fad of chalkboard paint floating around the internet now for the past few months. I took a trip to Home Depot and found a tiny bucket of Chalkboard paint for $24. We can do better then that, so here is my own recipe for Chalkboard paint. (I found a few different versions on the web, but when I experimented a few times, this concoction was easiest and had the best results)

Supplies:

Latex Paint, any color (matte or semi-gloss)

Dry, Non-sanded Grout

Paint Roller

Chalk

I decided this desk was my Guinea pig for my chalk adventure.

The area for my chalkboard paint would be the two side panels. BUT, before I took on that endeavor, I painted the desk and added some scrapbook paper to the "hard to paint" areas on top. Incase anyone wanted to try this as well:

All you need is a little Mod Podge, measuring tape, scissors, and a paintbrush...

And you can do this!

Ok, back to the Chalkboard paint.

I used 1/2 cup of Latex Paint

And 1 Tbsp of White, Dry, non-sanded grout. Just wanted to add, this was the smallest size I could find, you will have ALOT left over.

This was enough for 2 coats of Paint on the sides of my desk. If you are doing a larger area like a part of a wall, just double/triple the recipe however you see fit. (ex- 4 cups of paint = 8 Tbsp of grout)

Now mix your grouty-paint together and try to get all the clumps out. I just used a paintbrush but a paint stirrer would have been helpful.

Using a roller or a sponge brush, paint your surface. You'll notice the paint is much thicker and the white grout dulls the color a little bit. So if you want your color very bright and vibrant, I would recommend getting a shade brighter then you want in the end and the grout will bring it down once mixed.

After 2 coats, condition your chalkboard surface by taking your chalk and gently scribbling all over the surface. Then wipe all of that off...and here are the results:

Such an easy, fun way to add a conversation piece to anything in your home. Think: kitchen recipe/menu cupboard, a calendar wall in your office, a table in your children's playroom.