DIY Chalkboards from Cookie Sheets & Dollar Store Frames

Updated at: 13/05/2025

Tired of expensive, store-bought chalkboards that lack personality? Craving a simple, affordable way to add a touch of rustic charm or practical organization to your home? Then look no further! This project will show you how to effortlessly transform ordinary cookie sheets and dollar store picture frames into stylish and functional chalkboards, perfect for jotting down grocery lists, leaving sweet messages, or creating charming wall art. With just a few inexpensive supplies and a little bit of elbow grease, you can personalize your space and unleash your inner crafter.

This surprisingly easy DIY project requires minimal tools and skills, making it perfect for beginners. We'll guide you through the simple steps of preparing your cookie sheets, applying chalkboard paint, and framing your creations for a professional finish. Ready to get started and create your own unique chalkboard masterpieces? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Cookie sheets
  • Dollar store picture frames
  • Valspar primer for plastic
  • Valspar chalkboard paint
  • Painter's tape
  • Pencil
  • Paper
  • Sakura Solid Marker Slim
  • Scissors
  • Hot glue
  • Wired ribbon
  • Chalk
  • Felt
Safety Guidelines
  • Use oven-safe spray paint outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, always following the manufacturer's instructions. Inhaling spray paint fumes can be harmful.
  • Allow the paint to cure completely before using the chalkboard. This ensures the chalkboard surface is durable and prevents the paint from smearing or chipping.
  • Handle the cookie sheet carefully, especially the edges, as they can be sharp after painting. Consider using protective gloves.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Surfaces

    • Prepare the frame by removing the glass and prep the cookie sheet by covering the edges with painter's tape.
    • Lightly spray the surface of the items with Valspar primer for plastic.
    • Allow the primer to dry for 10 minutes, then add a second coat. Allow to dry for another 10 minutes.
    Allow the primer to dry for 10 minutes, then add a second coat. Allow to dry for another 10 minutes.Allow the primer to dry for 10 minutes, then add a second coat. Allow to dry for another 10 minutes.Allow the primer to dry for 10 minutes, then add a second coat. Allow to dry for another 10 minutes.
    Prepare Surfaces

  2. Apply Chalkboard Paint

    • Add a coat of chalkboard paint.
    • Add a second coat of chalkboard paint while waiting for the first coat to dry.
    Add a second coat of chalkboard paint while waiting for the first coat to dry.Add a second coat of chalkboard paint while waiting for the first coat to dry.
    Apply Chalkboard Paint

  3. Design & Transfer

    • Plan the layout for your chalkboards. For example, the cookie sheet could become a menu board and a picture frame a calendar.
    • Cut a piece of paper to the same width as your chalkboard and sketch your design.
    • Transfer your design onto the dry chalkboard by tracing it with a pencil, pressing firmly.
    • For the menu board (cookie sheet), remove tape from edges, carefully scoring where it meets the paint. Transfer and trace your design, then trace onto the chalkboard with the Sakura Solid Marker Slim.
    For the menu board (cookie sheet), remove tape from edges, carefully scoring where it meets the paint. Transfer and trace your design, then trace onto the chalkboard with the Sakura Solid Marker Slim.For the menu board (cookie sheet), remove tape from edges, carefully scoring where it meets the paint. Transfer and trace your design, then trace onto the chalkboard with the Sakura Solid Marker Slim.For the menu board (cookie sheet), remove tape from edges, carefully scoring where it meets the paint. Transfer and trace your design, then trace onto the chalkboard with the Sakura Solid Marker Slim.For the menu board (cookie sheet), remove tape from edges, carefully scoring where it meets the paint. Transfer and trace your design, then trace onto the chalkboard with the Sakura Solid Marker Slim.
    Design & Transfer

  4. Add Permanent Lines

    • Use the Sakura Solid Marker Slim to draw permanent lines (for example, calendar grid or header text).
    Use the Sakura Solid Marker Slim to draw permanent lines (for example, calendar grid or header text).
    Add Permanent Lines

  5. Prepare for Chalk Use

    • Prime the chalkboard by rubbing the entire surface with chalk sideways, then wiping clean with felt.
    Prime the chalkboard by rubbing the entire surface with chalk sideways, then wiping clean with felt.
    Prepare for Chalk Use

  6. Assemble & Decorate

    • Add the chalkboard to the frame.
    • Add a ribbon hanger to the cookie sheet by cutting a piece of wired ribbon, hot gluing it in a loop to the back, and tying a bow.
    Add a ribbon hanger to the cookie sheet by cutting a piece of wired ribbon, hot gluing it in a loop to the back, and tying a bow.Add a ribbon hanger to the cookie sheet by cutting a piece of wired ribbon, hot gluing it in a loop to the back, and tying a bow.
    Assemble & Decorate

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Tips

  • Use spray paint in a well-ventilated area. Only adults should use spray paint.
  • Place items inside a box to contain the spray.
  • The Sakura Solid Marker Slim is a unique marker that provides a chalk-like finish but is permanent.
  • Good lighting helps when transferring the design from paper to the chalkboard because the transfer is faint.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Chalkboard Paint Application

Reason: Applying too thick or thin coats of chalkboard paint, or missing spots, leads to an uneven, patchy finish.
Solution: Apply several thin, even coats, allowing each to dry completely before applying the next.

2. Insufficient Curing Time

Reason: Not allowing the chalkboard paint to cure properly before using it can result in smudging and paint transfer to chalk.
Solution: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for curing time, typically 24-72 hours.

3. Improper Frame Attachment

Reason: Using an inappropriate adhesive or a method that doesn't securely attach the cookie sheet to the frame, resulting in a wobbly or unstable chalkboard.
Solution: Use a strong adhesive, such as E6000 or construction adhesive, and consider using additional reinforcement like screws for a secure bond.

FAQs

What kind of chalkboard paint should I use?
Any high-quality chalkboard paint will work. Look for one specifically designed for metal surfaces for best adhesion. You can usually find these at craft stores or online.
How many coats of paint should I apply?
Two coats are generally recommended. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This ensures a smooth, even surface and prevents the paint from chipping.
What if the paint chips or wears off?
You can easily touch up any chipped or worn areas with additional coats of chalkboard paint. Using a sealant after the paint is fully cured can also increase its longevity.