Chalkboard frames seem to be all the rage right now, but they also can be very pricey. So I set out to make my own. This craft is pretty simple and once you buy the basic supplies, you’ll be able to make several frames of your own. Then the frames can display menus on your sweets table, welcome guests, or invite them to take a gift bag. I used this one in my Valentine’s Day Party.

Chalkboard Frame Supplies

• Frame
• Paint (optional)
• Sanding block
• Mod Podge (optional)
• Foam brush
• Chalkboard vinyl (I used Contact brand purchased from Amazon; you can use paint pens for chalk boards on this vinyl)
• Squeegee
• Chalk

Chalkboard Frame Instructions

1. If your frame is not the color you want it to be, use the sanding block to roughen the surface and paint it the color you want. My frame needed two coats. (On Saturday, I saw several frames at Ikea with a vintage look — all for under $5.)

2. Once the frame is completely dry, use your sanding block to reveal some of the original color (if you want a weathered look).

3. I wanted to protect the frame and add a little sheen, so I used the foam brush to coat the frame in Mod Podge. Let this dry overnight.

4. Read the instructions on the back of the chalkboard vinyl. You will apply the vinyl to the glass from the frame.

5. Place the glass on the back of the chalkboard vinyl and mark the area you want to cut with a marker. You’ll want to cut the vinyl just slightly larger than the glass.

6. Peel the backing off the vinyl and carefully apply it to the glass. Smooth it from the center out. You’ll probably see air bubbles (like those below). Use your squeegee to smooth out the bubbles. Again, work from the center out.

7. Use chalk to prime the vinyl.

8. Erase the chalk.

9. Reinsert the vinyl covered glass in the frame and you’re done!

If making your own chalkboard frame isn’t your thing, but you love the look, check out Shugabee Lane on Etsy.