A chalkboard is such a versatile and stylish addition to any home, and making your own is easier than you might think! In this step-by-step guide, I’ll show you how to create a large DIY chalkboard that combines rustic farmhouse charm with practical functionality. Whether you’re planning to use it for reminders, seasonal decor, or family messages, this project will bring personality to your space.
If you love adding farmhouse charm to your home, you might also enjoy my post on How to Make Wood Look Old in 3 Simple Steps. It’s another easy project that pairs beautifully with this rustic chalkboard.
DIY Large Chalkboard Tutorial
Materials
- MDF or hardboard (approx. 48″ x 60″)
- Primer
- Chalkboard paint
- Four 1″x3″x48″ boards (mitered corners)
- Four 1″x3″x60″ boards (mitered corners)
- Wood stain (e.g., Minwax Provincial)
Tools
- Two paint brushes
- Lint-free cloths
- Finishing nails and hammer or nail gun
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw or hand saw
- Two D-ring hangers
- Picture hanging hardware
- Chalkboard brush or clean dry cloth
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut the board to size
Start with a large sheet of MDF or hardboard. Cut it to your desired dimensions (ours was 4’x5’).
2. Prime and paint the surface
Apply one coat of primer, followed by at least two coats of chalkboard paint (three coats for good measure). Let it cure according to the paint’s instructions.
3. Build a back frame
Attach a frame to the back for stability and to provide an anchor for hangers. Use 1×3 boards, cut to length with mitered corners, and secure them with finishing nails.
4. Create the front frame
Repeat the process for the front frame, but don’t attach it yet—staining will be easier before assembly.
5. Stain the frames
Apply and wipe off your chosen wood stain. Don’t forget to stain the visible edges of the back frame too. We used Minwax Provincial for a rich, warm finish.
6. Assemble the front frame
Once the stain is dry, nail the front frame pieces to the chalkboard, ensuring the edges align perfectly.
7. Attach hangers
Secure D-ring hangers to the back frame, ensuring they are level for even hanging.
8. Season the chalkboard
Before using the chalkboard, “season” it by rubbing the entire surface with the side of a piece of chalk. Wipe it clean with a chalkboard brush or dry cloth.
Tips
- Use reclaimed wood for the frame for an extra rustic touch.
- Ensure hangers and wall anchors are sturdy enough to support the chalkboard’s weight.
- Customize the size of the chalkboard to suit your space.
FAQs
This tutorial uses a 4’x5’ board, but you can customize the size based on your space.
Absolutely! Choose wood that complements your home’s style. Reclaimed wood can add extra rustic charm.
While it’s not overly heavy, ensure you use sturdy hangers and proper wall anchors to support it.
Yes, seasoning prevents “ghosting” or permanent marks on the chalkboard surface.
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- How to Make a Large Hanging DIY Chalkboard
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DIY Chalkboard How-To
Create a stunning DIY chalkboard with this easy tutorial! Perfect for notes, decor, or reminders, it’s a farmhouse charm essential for any home.
Materials
- MDF or hardboard (approx. 48" x 60")
- Primer
- Chalkboard paint
- Four 1"x3"x48" boards (mitered corners)
- Four 1"x3"x60" boards (mitered corners)
- Wood stain (e.g., Minwax Provincial)
Tools
- Two paint brushes
- Lint-free cloths
- Finishing nails and hammer or nail gun
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw or hand saw
- Two D-ring hangers
- Picture hanging hardware
- Chalkboard brush or clean dry cloth
Instructions
- Cut the chalkboard.
Cut a sheet of MDF or hardboard to your desired size (e.g., 4’x5’). - Prime and paint.
Apply one coat of primer and at least two coats of chalkboard paint. Let it cure according to the paint’s instructions. - Build the back frame.
Use 1x3 boards to build a frame on the back for added support and to attach hangers. Secure with finishing nails. - Create the front frame.
Measure, cut, and stain the 1x3 boards for the front frame. Allow the stain to dry before attaching the frame. - Assemble the front frame.
Attach the stained frame pieces to the front of the chalkboard using finishing nails, ensuring everything aligns neatly. - Attach hangers.
Secure D-ring hangers to the back frame, ensuring they are level for even hanging. - Season the chalkboard.
Rub the entire surface with the side of a piece of chalk and wipe it clean to prevent ghosting.
Making a DIY chalkboard is a fun and rewarding project that can transform your space in just a few hours. I love how it brings a touch of character and practicality to any room. I hope this guide inspires you to roll up your sleeves and try it for yourself! If you have questions or tips to share, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
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<3
Your giant chalkboard looks great. I like the mini wreath decoration as well it balances it out.
Thank you SO, SO much Claire!
Kristi, I was admiring your chalkboard when I saw your hallway reveal. So glad you did a post about how you made it. It looked looks fabulous in that space!
Awwwww, well thanks Marie! I’m thrilled that you loved it as much as I did! xo
Gorgeous chalkboard Shannon. I am in process re-designing my office/work space and have been thinking about what I’d hang over my metal industrial “work table”. I love how you framed this and the simplicity. I might make half of it a painted cork board, as I’m needing a space to pin up ideas, etc. Super post, thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you so much Allie! I’m so happy you’re feeling inspired!
Your giant chalkboard looks Awesome. Love this. Super post, thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you so, so much Merryjo! I’m so happy you loved it!!!
I love this. My first thought was go to the thrift shop and buy something with a frame and make the chalkboard to fit. Quick. Easy.
That’s a brilliant idea! Thanks so much Barb!
This is soo gorgeous, I love chalkboards A LOT! I’ve never thought of making one with a pretty frame like this, it sounds easy to do! Thanks for sharing this at Sweet Inspiration#1!!!
Thank you Katrin! It really was super quick to whip up!
Your chalkboard turned out beautiful – and it fits so perfectly in your farmhouse hallway. Thanks for the tutorial!
Thank you so, so much Jenny! I absolutely adore it in our new hallway too! Thanks again!
I really wanted to know how to create a chalk board. THANKS
Oh good! So happy you’re feeling inspired!
Hi! Love Love this! Just quick question what size of D Rings did you use? Our local hardware stores seem to only carry larger ones?
Thanks so much Lyndi! I don’t think it matters too much what size you use as long as it fits onto the back of the frame. Just for reference, we used ones similar to these: http://www.amazon.com/Extra-Triangle-Picture-Hanger-Wiseacresart/dp/B000OMMI9U/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1464734239&sr=8-2&keywords=d+ring+hook. Thanks again!
Do you need to use a wax to seal the chalk paint afterwards or just primer and chalk paint?
As long as you use proper chalkboard paint, you don’t need to seal it with anything, just be sure to “season” it by first rubbing a piece of chalk over the entire chalkboard before using it.
Can you just nail the whole thing to the wall using a brad nailer? Or would that be a bad idea?
So, do the nails show on the front at all? It doesn’t look like it in the pics but I’m not seeing where you put the nails to attach the front part of the frame to the chalkboard?
How thick is the board u used for the chalkboard?
Hi!
I really loved this tutorial and my husband and I FINALLY decided to give it a go after a ton of research. It is now finished but I am stumped as of what to use for hardware. Its a lot taller than this one pictured, and not as wide. It will be used by my toddler which is why I am having such a hard time picking out the hardware… Are the D rings good enough to where it couldn’t easily be ripped off the wall? This is a very large chalkboard and I want it super secured to the wall. You never know with toddlers! Could I add anything along with the D rings to prevent this from happening? Maybe some heavy duty command strips? Thank you, and Lovely job with this project! I had been researching for months before I finally stumbled upon a tutorial where they didn’t nail or staple the board to the wall, I like knowing I will be able to move it in the future. Any input on (easy installation) hardware is appreciated. 🙂
– Cheyenne Cobb
Aspiring Interior Designer, and lover of all things farmhouse
Yes, if it is within reach of a toddler, I’d definitely be sure it’s secured well. I hesitate to make recommendations as we don’t have toddlers here anymore. Please do be sure it’s fastened well – either into studs or with heavy duty anchors.
How long did it take you to make this chalkboard? I am planning on making mine for my sorority and want to know how much time I will need to devote to it! Thank you!
What is that on the corners of the back part of the frame? Almost looks like some type of metal? Or is the color just different? Either way, I like it and want to try to replicate it. Also, where on the back did you attach the Document rings? On the frame? Thanks!
Beautiful chalkboard! How thick was the MDF you used?
Good question! I think any thickness would work. It just depends on your likes and dislikes and such! 😉
Did you use spray chalkboard paint, or did you roll it on with a foam roller?
The chalkboard paint is brushed or rolled on. Although if you have a steady hand, you could use spray chalkboard paint if you’d like.
Where did you find those mini-wreaths? I’m looking for something identical to those.
When attached the hardboard to the back frame, did you use any wood glue along with the finishing nails? Also, can you be more specific about how you attached the front from to the board/ back frame?
Thanks,
Nate
Hi Nate,
I don’t think Kristi used any glue with the finishing nails. But there’s no reason you couldn’t if you wanted to. And I believe Kristi just used finishing nails to attach the frame to the back, by nailing them in from the backside. I hope that helps!
What was the cost for you to make this for all materials used?
Ooh! Good question! It’s a little hard to tell, just because usually we have the stains and paints on hand from previous projects. I would imagine our lovely contributor Kristi created this for $30-75 depending on what was on hand and how much her local store charge for materials.
Do you have to use regular chalk on this board or can you use the chalk markers?
how thick was the MDF that she used?
Hi! We followed your tutorial and are about to assemble out chalkboard! How did you do the finishing nails? This is a Christmas gift and we want to make sure it looks good. Did you do the nails from the front or back? Thanks!