When Bethany sent her simple yet chic message board project, we had to share it. This is an easy afternoon DIY that adds both function and style to a kitchen, office, mudroom, or any busy corner of your home. Here’s what she wrote:
Thank you so much for your upbeat, positive attitude and for inspiring creativity! I wanted to share a project I completed recently that was extremely simple, inexpensive, and completely DIY. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to get organized without sacrificing style. I spray-painted a garage-sale picture frame and used leftover chalkboard paint to coat the glass insert with several thick layers, letting it cure fully before use. You can find step-by-step instructions on my blog. Thanks again for the fun site! – Bethany
This charming frame makeover is both practical and stylish — especially since Bethany used a thrifted frame and leftover chalkboard paint she already had on hand. It’s a great example of budget-friendly upcycling: a quick spray of paint transforms an ordinary frame, and painting the glass with chalkboard paint creates a reusable surface for lists, reminders, and messages.
Why this project works well:
- Low cost: Use a secondhand frame and leftover paint to keep expenses minimal.
- Fast: The whole project can be completed in an afternoon, with most time spent waiting for paint to dry and cure.
- Versatile: Hang it in a kitchen for menus and grocery lists, in an office for to-dos, or in an entryway for reminders and appointments.
- Customizable: Choose frame color and finish to match your decor, and apply multiple chalkboard paint coats for a smooth, durable writing surface.
Helpful tips for the best result:
- Clean the glass thoroughly before applying chalkboard paint to ensure proper adhesion.
- Sand the frame lightly if needed so spray paint adheres evenly, and consider a primer for tricky surfaces.
- Apply several thin coats of chalkboard paint rather than one thick coat, letting each layer dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Allow the painted glass to cure fully before writing on it—this prevents ghosting and improves durability.
- Use chalk marker pens for cleaner, longer-lasting writing, or traditional chalk for easy erasing and a classic look.
Projects like this are perfect for anyone who likes organized spaces with personality. Thanks again to Bethany for sharing her before-and-after photos — practical, pretty, and ready to inspire your next weekend project!