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!
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
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).
*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.
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.
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…
So versatile! Wouldn’t you agree?
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 : )
Thanks, Liz! Sometimes you just can’t beat the ease and price of semi-homemade. 🙂
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
That’s awesome!! I wish I had some “real” logs to use. Yours will be truly homemade. 😉
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!
You’re so welcome! I’m jealous you have a barn to scavenge… 😉
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!
I’m so glad you like it, Sondra! And what a great idea about using it as a cheese platter!
Super cute! I love it! And I want one!
So glad you like it, Sharon! 🙂