How to Paint a Chalkboard Wall in the Kitchen

If you have been reading for awhile, you know I love a chalkboard. One of the first projects I decided to do in our new home was to paint a chalkboard wall in the kitchen. I love the black accent and the classic look of it. This took a small amount of money and effort, and the results make a huge impact! Here’s how to easily paint a chalkboard wall in the kitchen.

Where to Paint a Chalkboard Wall

We have a narrow wall between the mudroom and the kitchen. It seems like the perfect space to create some whimsy. I also love the pop of black to transition the two rooms. This wall also doesn’t feel overwhelming and feels manageable to change out artwork, bucket lists, seasonal decor, etc.

How to Paint a Chalkboard Wall

1. I decided to use some Rustoleum brand chalk paint I already had on hand.
2. Using a small sponge roller, I applied three solid coats. Be sure to let each coat dry completely before starting the next coat.
3. I didn’t have to tape anything off, I was just very careful when cutting in.

After the Paint Dries

There are instructions on the paint can, but you are supposed to leave the paint alone for several days in order for the paint to “cure”. After a few days, you are to cover the entire wall with chalk and then clean.  I have found the best way to clean chalk off the wall is to use a wet cloth with a little dish soap and move it in a circular motion.  Then dry off with another old towel.

The chalk wall is never going to be completely stark black once you have applied chalk. I think that adds to the character.  You must know that this does get messy after you use the chalk.  You will need to clean up chalk debris after you write on the board! We just use regular old chalk and it works great. Update: Over the years I have used sidewalk chalk to get vibrant colors when needed.

I did not paint the chalk wall for my kids and they don’t play on it.  Boo, mean mom!  This is purely decorative! Here is the wall from a few different angles.  The first is a view from the kitchen looking into the mudroom.  The chalk wall is right across from the kid’s artwork display wall. This door color will also be changing to black soon!

And here is an angle from the mudroom into the kitchen…

Have you experimented with chalk paint? Are you in love or over the hype? I don’t think I’ll ever tire of it! UPDATE 2023: I still use this chalkboard to display countdowns for travel, seasonal bucket lists, quotes, etc! XO