DIY Projects & Crafts DIY Home Projects DIY Chalkboard Paint If you thought chalkboards were just for schoolrooms, think again. Find the formula to make your own wipe-off writing surfaces, here. By Martha Stewart Editors Martha Stewart Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter Website An article attributed to "Martha Stewart Editors" indicates when several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The Martha Stewart team aims to teach and inspire readers daily with tested-until-perfected recipes, creative DIY projects, and elevated home and entertaining ideas. They are experts in their fields who research, create, and test the best ways to help readers design the life they want. The joy is in the doing. Editorial Guidelines Updated on September 17, 2020 Share Tweet Pin Email Thanks to paint that dries into a chalkboard finish, your board can be whatever size you desire and placed wherever you like. Store-bought formulas come in traditional green and black. But you can also follow our recipe to mix your own batch in any shade. Cleverly applied chalkboard paint means new places to track appointments, keep lists, and leave messages. Or simply use the surface to draw or doodle, which will appeal to kids and the kid in everyone. Use chalkboard paint for anything from a DIY menu to decorating a child's wall. What You'll Need Materials Flat-finish latex paint Mixing container Unsanded tile grout Paint stirrer Paint roller 150-grit sandpaper Chalk Sponge Instructions Start with flat-finish latex paint in any shade. For small areas, such as a door panel, mix 1 cup at a time. Pour 1 cup of paint into a container. Add 2 tablespoons of unsanded tile grout. Mix with a paint stirrer, carefully breaking up clumps. Apply paint with a roller or a sponge paintbrush to a primed or painted surface. Work in small sections, going over the same spot several times to ensure full, even coverage. Let dry. Smooth area with 150-grit sandpaper, and wipe off dust. To condition, rub the side of a piece of chalk over entire surface. Wipe away residue with a barely damp sponge.