DIY Log Chalkboard Tutorial

Here’s a confession: this adorable (and easy!) little chalkboard only counts as semi-homemade in my books… But for $7, I’ve got a fabulous piece of decor and/or tray. Even better, my kids got to help me. I love that kind of project!

how to turn a log into a chalkboard sign, tutorial, diy chalkboard log

I found this log slice at Hobby Lobby for $7 after a 40% off coupon (though, obviously, if you have access to free ones in nature, even better!). With a little chalkboard spray paint (which I already had from another project), we were in business.

Materials needed:

  • log slice (I’m sure there’s a more technical name for this!)
  • chalkboard spray paint
  • painter’s tape
  • plastic wrap

diy rustic log slice turned chalkboard tutorial

Tutorial:

  • tape off your chalkboard area (*see below for more details)
  • wrap the sides and bottom in plastic wrap (stick it to the tape excess – see above picture)
  • spray several light coats of paint and let dry

Super simple. The boys had a blast helping me with the spray paint. Don’t forget to prime your chalkboard before writing on it (which is just a fancy way of saying rub chalk all over it, let it sit for a bit, then wipe it off).

prime your diy chalkboard before writing on it

*You can see that I was careful when taping to follow the line of the natural tree ring in the wood. It was slightly more tedious, and it certainly isn’t necessary, but I think it added to the polished look.

fall chalkboard vignette

diy chalkboard spray paint tutorial

The chalkboard can obviously be used for an occasion, but I couldn’t help but celebrate fall right now. It makes a fabulous backdrop to any vignette.

fall vignette using rustic wood chalkboard and small gourds

Or with a little sawtooth hook on the back, it would make a cute wall hanging. I’m looking forward to using it as a tray, as well. It would be perfect for entertaining because you could write instructions for your guests, like “help yourself!” or “please make a name tag” or anything…

rustic log slice turned chalkboard tray, diy tutorial, how to make a chalkboard tray

So versatile! Wouldn’t you agree?

 

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17 Comments

  1. I LOVE this Rachel! Semi-homemade projects are awesome, especially when they look this great! I’d love one to add to my chalkboard collection : )

  2. I can hardly wait to try this, we just cut two old pine trees down in my parents yard and I kept two slices of wood from the trees. I was looking for the perfect idea to use them for, now I have found it. Thanks so much

  3. So pretty! Very nice chalk lettering, too! 🙂 I’m now considering scavenging my father’s pole barn in hops of finding a piece of wood I could have him slice for me! Thanks for the inspiration!

  4. This is so cute, Rachel! I love chalkboard paint… and any new way to use it! When using as a tray, you could set some cheese on a plate on top and simply write in chalk the cheese you’re serving. Ah… the possibilities are endless!

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