Can you paint a cork board with chalk paint?
(Updated 2021/05/19) – I realize I have a lot of visitors who are looking for solutions to painting their cork boards. We just spruced up the frame, but we have big plans for the rest of it. That said, I’ve updated this article to include some great painted cork board projects and videos that I think most of you are looking for.
Here is a great and easy to follow article from cathyzielske.com on painting a “Big Ass White Bulletin Board”. Hahaha, she’s fun, you’ll like this one.
Here is a great video from Jessica Hill. She paints those round cork hot plates and uses them like mini cork boards. So you can absolutely paint cork with acrylic paints, and probably spray paints as well
On to our painted corkboard project
Well, I was cleaning out my office this afternoon and found this old framed corkboard that my brother gave to me because he wasn’t using it. I tucked it away behind a shelf thinking I would find something to do with it eventually and use it in my office. Let’s find out what we can do for a fun little DIY Project!
Lately the kids play room has been high on my to-do list. I’m trying very hard to get it all of the many books organized and weed out all the toys they don’t play with anymore. Seeing this again got my wheels turning and I opened up some of my Annie Sloan chalk paint in Pure White that I had from another project and got busy.
Supplies from Amazon:
We used Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, but Rustoleum is available on Amazon, and works almost as well. Also, I’ve included a link to wax brushes below, their not mandatory, but I found them really easy to work with and I do recommend getting a good brush. The round shape made application really easy.
Preparing our cork board for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
First, I taped the around the inner frame to prevent the paint from going on the cork. I wanted to leave this exposed. Then I painted around the frame using a basic paint brush.
Looking good so far, now for the actual work. I’ve completed a few chalk paint projects so far, and I really love the look, and options for finishes that you can accomplish. Distressed, aged patina, or a crisp clean look are all pretty easy, and all you really need is a bit of sandpaper and maybe a wax.
I wanted it to have a slightly distressed look so I took a bit a sand paper to the edges. You can do as much or a little as you like depending on the look you want. Or even nothing at all.
After I sanded, I finished it off with Annie Sloan clear wax. I used a very small amount on a wax brush and quickly ran this across the painted wood and buffed out with Scott’s Shop Heavy Duty blue towels. You can also use a clean rag. I buffed until it felt like butter and there was no tackiness.
And Viola! A very quick Simple 30 min DIY with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint!
xo Jennifer
–> More DIY Projects Here <–
Chalk Paint FAQ What is the best chalk paint?
Top 3 Chalk Paints of 2020
Best Chalk Paint for Furniture: Annie Sloan Chalk Paint at Anniesloan.com
Best Color Selection: The Spruce Best Home by KILZ Chalky Finish Paint
Best All-purpose Chalk Paint: BEHR White Interior Chalk Decorative Paint
Do you have to sand before you use chalk paint?
Chalk paint generally works well on furniture without the use of primer and sanding. A quick wipe down with a good cleaner or soapy water is usually all that is required when using chalk paint. However, results will always be better with proper preparation. We sand most of our projects, and depending on the color we use, we may use primer as well.
What is the difference between chalk paint and regular paint?
Chalk paint is different then traditional paint because of its consistency, chalky appearance and feel.It’s less likely to drip, and is water-based. Clean-up with is accomplished with with soap and water rather opposed to mineral spirits or thinner.
What can you seal chalk paint with?
Chalk paint can be sealed with a wax, or Polyurethane coating. Many chalk paint suppliers like AnnieSloan.com make waxes for use with chalk paint. Polyurethane is a clear topcoat available in several finishes from high gloss to matte.
What kind of brush do you use for chalk paint?
Bristle Brushes work best for chalk paint. Natural bristle brushes are preferred over typical synthetic brushes. Although natural brushes are more expensive they last much longer when used only with chalk paint since the cleanup is much easier. We recommend buying quality natural brushes for chalk paint.
