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Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Introduction

We found a big old school chalkboard at a recycling center and turned it into a family memo board, calendar, and summary to organize keys, mail, and cell phones.

Step 1

Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Preparation board

Clean the Chalkboard Use a tape measure and some math to determine equal spacing for your calendar. We did it with six consecutive days and Sunday sitting at the end of the other days. Use chalk to mark your lines.

Step 2

Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Mark lines

Use painter's tape to mark the border lines. Be sure to press down on the tape so the paint doesn't spill under it.

Step 3

Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Paint Lines

Paint between the tape. Let the first coat dry before applying a second coat.

Stage 4

Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Attach Baskets

While the paint is drying on the top lines, position the baskets (we used three) so they are centered on the board. Use a washer and screws to attach the baskets to the board. Make sure the screws don't extend past the back of the board, otherwise they could scratch your walls.

Step 5

Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Finish Lines

Add the final lines for Sunday.

Step 6

Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Add hooks

Attach the hooks to one side of the board.

Step 7

Turn an old chalkboard into a family message center

Personalize

Peel and apply the stick-on letters or use chalk or paint to mark the days of the week or the initials of each family member.