How to Repurpose a Picture into a Chalkboard

We’re sharing how to update and repurpose a picture into a chalkboard today!

If you had the chance to check out our post, Spring at The Crowned Goat Cottage, you likely spotted the chalkboard that tops our DIY office work island.

It’s a piece I get asked about all the time.

Believe it or not, some of the most used items in our home are chalkboards.

They’re great for jotting down a quick note, keeping our grocery list, menu, and weekly schedule organized, working out a design issue, and even seasonal decorating.

We use them so often that I don’t even check to see if they’re on trend or off because for us their practicality outweighs any style list. We literally use them all over the house!

Several years ago while out shopping with my Mom, we found a picture with the prettiest gold frame.

The picture wasn’t really my style at all.

But I knew immediately the large size was perfect for creating a chalkboard to use in my office for organization, party menus, and for entertaining throughout the year too.

Bonus, it didn’t have glass on the front so I knew I would be able to paint directly onto the picture.

Turning an old picture into a chalkboard is relatively straightforward and a great project to try for any DIY skill level.

We use this piece so often, I’m already on the hunt for another one.

Here’s a look at how to repurpose a picture into a chalkboard in just a few easy steps… 

Repurposed Picture Into Chalkboard Supplies:

• Wall Art
• Chalkboard Paint
• Paintbrush or Foam Roller
• Painters Tape
• Face Mask (for seasoning the chalkboard)
• Sandpaper (optional, see below)
• Lint-free cloth
• Tarp (to protect your work surface)

Repurposed Picture into Chalkboard Steps:

Gather your supplies and make sure your picture or wall art is clean, dry, and free from dirt and debris. Then lay a tarp down to protect your work surfaces.

Using painter’s tape, carefully tape the edges of the frame so you don’t get any chalkboard paint on the frame.

You might not be able to tell it in this photograph but this picture had a bit of a rough texture to it from the start which helped to give it some tooth.

Had the picture been smooth, we would have had to rough it up some with sandpaper in order for the chalkboard paint to properly adhere.

Paint in a well-ventilated area and be sure to read the back of the chalkboard paint can very carefully before you begin this project.

Some paints will require you to use a primer before applying the chalkboard paint.

I hand-brushed three thin coats of chalkboard paint onto the picture.

But this is also a great project to use a roller on because it makes for a better finish. Especially, if you’re a beginner at painting.

I allowed about 4 hours of drying time between each coat.

This is after the first coat.

This is after three coats.

The amount of time the chalkboard paint will need to cure depends on which brand of paint you choose, so again, make sure you read the back of the paint can carefully.

Seasoning the Chalkboard:

After the chalkboard paint has cured, it’s time to season the chalkboard. You’ll need to use caution, care, and a quality mask during this step as there will be lots of chalkdust.

If you’ve never seasoned a chalkboard before all you have to do is take a piece of chalk and lay it flat against your painted and cured surface,

then rub the chalk across the chalkboard paint until the entire chalkboard has been covered.

Once you’re finished seasoning the chalkboard, wipe away the chalk dust with a clean cloth, and you’re good to go!

Honestly, this is a really budget-friendly project and it couldn’t be easier to repurpose a picture into a chalkboard.

You can also use this same technique with smaller picture frames or any color chalkboard paint you like.

As with all paints, the chalkboard paint will eventually have to be reapplied especially if you use it daily as we do. We’ve been using this one for almost 4 years though so I’d say it’s holding up pretty well!

While I’ve been primarily using this chalkboard to keep me organized at The Crowned Goat Cottage, chalkboards are really easy to use throughout your home no matter what the shape or size.

They also make a fun gift idea too so give it a try!

Let us know if you’ve ever repurposed a picture into a chalkboard and other ways you stay organized at home!

You Can Find the Other Ways We Use Chalkboards and Stay Organized Here:

Pantry Organization Tips Made Easy 

How to Make an Easy Dry Erase Board

10 Tips for a More Organized Life

Until next time, I’ll see you on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

Many blessings,

CoCo