makin' it monday // chalkboard paint

this is the back of norah's dresser before:

and after!:

I am really pleased with how this week's project turned out. Norah's dresser sits perpendicular to her wall to act as a divider and provide a designated "play area" in her room. The back was so ugly though so I wanted to do something to make it look better but also make it functional. Originally I had wanted to make this a magnet board so I went to Michael's and got a can of magnetic spray paint. I did not read the back thoroughly enough and it wasn't until after I used up an entire can, waited 24 hours, and tried to test the paint that I realized I should have used not one but three cans for the size I was trying to paint. UGH. The paint was expensive and I didn't want to have to buy two more cans just to get this to work so I decided to make my own chalkboard paint instead! Here's how I did it:

You will need: acrylic paint in any color (I went with a classic black), unsanded grout, a mixing bowl and spoon, measuring cups, measuring spoons, and a paint brush.

First, I taped off the dresser so I wouldn't get paint anywhere else. Depending on what you are painting, this step may be unnecessary.

Next, mix 1/2 a cup of paint with 1 tbsp of grout. Stir until there are no more lumps. *side note: this paint hardens quickly and doesn't store well like other homemade paints. I recommend making small amounts at a time. You can always make more if you need more!* 

Next, paint!

This step is important. Once the paint completely dries (1/2 hour-1 hour at the most) slate the surface. To slate, lightly rub the surface with chalk and then wipe away with a paper towel.

Now, color!

:)