Earlier this year, I decided I wanted to take up a new hobby and expand on my skills as a handyman/weekend DIYer. Like any typical male, I went out and bought some shiny new tools. What next? I decided to get a little practice with a project that I could live with not going perfectly. I built a saw horse from plans I found online.
Which brings me to this project. My mom has been looking for a chalk board that she can use in the kitchen to jot down notes and recipes. After searching high and low, I couldn’t find the right one anywhere. Then a lightbulb went off, my mom’s birthday was coming up – why don’t I put some of my handyman skills to use and make one. I came up with a simple plan from scratch, and here it goes:
What you need:
- Plywood or solid wood for surface area to your chalkboard specifications
- Extra wood min. 15cm width by the length of your chalboard
- Corner trim to cover dimensions of chalkboard
- Two shelf brackets (2″ by 3″)
- Simple hooks for keys
- Finishing nails
- 1/2″ wood screws
- Picture hanger teeth
- Wood glue
- Chalkboard paint
- Spray paint for shelf
- Protractor
- Angle square
- Level
- Circular Saw
- Jig Saw
- 4 – 2″ C-clamps
Step One: Cut wood background to size (in my case I did 28 by 60cm to fit into the designated space)
Step Two: Apply two coats of Chalk Paint. I did this over two days to ensure proper drying. You will also see a spray paint version in most stores, I’ve been told that application isn’t as consistent as with a brush. 
Step Three: Measure and cut trim using jig saw.
Step Four: Cut trim at 45 degree angles. Before attaching to backboard, lay in place to ensure everything fits. You may have to make some minor adjustments with the jigsaw or a sander.
Step Five: Affix trim with wood glue and clamp for about 30 minutes. With clamps still attached, nail trim on side to backboard using tiny nails.
Step Six: Cut and spray paint shelf. I learned that it is best to apply spray paint from about a foot away and lightly coat to ensure smoothest coat. Repeat this step several times waiting a few minutes each time to allow to dry slightly.
Trim attached and looking good. The trickiest part is done.
Step Seven: Attached a simple picture hanger with teeth (double check weight rating, this one is good to 20 lbs)
Step Eight: Rub side of chalk across board to create a thin layer across, this will ensure longevity. Attach shelf using simple brackets. Attach bracket to shelf first, then backboard. Hand screw in key hooks as desired.
Step Nine: Start writing and enjoy!
