Don’t Use Chalkboard and Magnetic Paint Until You Read This!

Most of us have seen those painted chalkboard and magnetic walls and thought, “maybe I should do that!”  Well, here’s the lowdown on what works, what doesn’t, and how to get the effect you really want.

get this peel and stick chalkboard here

 

The claim:  chalkboard paint can easily create a message board or art display in practically any room.  The truth:  it really can, but you don’t need to use a specific chalkboard paint that may come in a limited palette of colors.

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Here’s the secret formula:  for each cup of regular paint in any color, add in 2 tablespoons of unsanded tile grout and stir to break up clumps.  Apply paint with a roller or sponge paintbrush, and use multiple coats for even coverage.  After it dries, sand lightly with 150 grit sandpaper and wipe off dust.  Rub the side of a piece of chalk over the entire thing, then wipe away chalk with a barely damp sponge.

Pottery Barn

The claim:  magnetic paint can transform a wall into a spot to display anything you want to display with magnets.  The truth:  it just doesn’t work well.  A couple of years ago, one of my design clients wanted to create a magnetic area for her daughter to display her art and school work.  After 3+ coats of magnetic paint, the area still was not magnetic enough to hold most magnets, much less a magnet holding a piece of paper!

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Have you seen those tiny super-strong magnets?  They work pretty well, but those are kind of scary for kids to use (easily swallowed).  Don’t know if you saw the Grey’s Anatomy episode about the kid who ingested a handful of magnets, but it was NOT pretty.  Anywho, my client ended up being able to use those very light word magnets found in those magnetic poetry kits – her daughter creates sentences and poems on the wall, but is unable to hang anything on it.

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Here’s how they arranged the magnetic words in the form of a Christmas tree last year:

Photo by The Decorologist

So, forget the magnetic paint.  If you want a magnetic space that actually works – go to the hardware store and purchase a large sheet of galvanized steel (make sure it’s magnetic before you buy it).   You can even use a metal backsplash for a stove (just don’t get a stainless steel one).  Then you can paint it any color you like – painting won’t impact the magnetism.  Attach a hanger on the back and mount it on your wall.

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So now you know the good, the bad, and the truth about chalkboard and magnetic paint.  If you’ve had experience using either, please share! If you want to become an expert in all things paint colors, find out more about our ONLINE paint color certification course here!

203 Comments

  1. Sherry

    Great post, Kristie! I did not know this about chalkboard & magnetic paints!

    Reply
    • David B. Lytle

      Why is it people seem to be so enamored with putting a chalkboard in their homes? Understand that the way chalk makes a mark on a chalkboard is that it is rubbed across the surface that is rough. This roughness bites into the chalk and grinds it away, thus leaving a line or mark on the chalkboard. The line or mark on the chalkboard is made up of millions of tiny microscopic bits of the chalk. These bits then fall off the chalkboard and end up on the floor or the smallest particles fly through the house landing on every possible horizontal surface. Forget chalkboards. Put up a write and wipe surface for the kids. They can write with the special write and wipe markers in all the colors of the rainbow. The markers are non-toxic. I have a web site where we make and sell all sorts of magnetic mounting and display products for the home. We make magnetic paint additive that you can easily use to make a beautiful and functional magnetic wall. We also have write and wipe boards that will stick to your wall, either magnetically or by self adhesive. The address if the site is http://www.lyt.com.

      Reply
      • karin

        Note that wipe-off markers make a mess of children's clothing, furniture, and rugs when the markers get dropped, or the kids aren't paying attention to the business end of the marker.  They have made permanent marks on some cute clothes and a carpet.  They might be good for older kids, but not good for toddlers, etc!

        Reply
        • Kristen

          Dry erase CRAYONS are where its at!!!

          Reply
          • Danielle Meehan

            never heard of dry erase crayons…I’m googling now

        • Elaine

          Markers are not in our home until my 5 year old can put the caps back on–I’m DONE trying to re-cap the markers, dry-erase or otherwise and tired of throwing dried out markers away! Chalk is a mess, too and the chalkboard never looks as good as new. I’m leaving the artsy stuff to the playroom, not my kitchen, thank you.

          Reply
          • Megan

            Wait guys! Don’t throw out your dried out markers!!!

            Put your them in a jar with water and let them sit awhile. Homemade watercolors. My favorite watercolors were from my kids’ dried out markers. Highlighters are GREAT to use. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce color theory by using different colors to make “new” colors.

          • Samantha Bruce

            You sound like a really fun parent…

            Let kids make a mess and enjoy their childhood. ‘Cute’ clothes and your carpet shouldn’t be thought of as more important than your own child’s chance to learn, grow, explore and enjoythis world, form
            Being so consumed by cleanliness

          • Stinky

            I mean, I agree, but there’s a balance. Ruining a carpet is a good lesson for a kid, hence the invention of carpet tiles – but if my kid needs to learn the lesson more than once, then I’ll buy a new kid.

          • Jenny Brown

            How is replacing or cleaning a carpet a lesson for a kid? Are they paying for it? Pushing the machine around? No.

          • Jenny Brown

            No. It is not “being consumed with cleanliness” or wrong priorites to want to take care of the things you pay good money to have. Kids are perfectly capable of learning when and where it is appropriate to be loud, messy, super-active, etc., and when it is not appropriate. Teaching them the difference makes them well-socialized children instead of badly behaved jerks, as they learn to transition through social situations.

          • sam

            My 2 year old learned how to replace the caps before she was even 2. it’s all about teaching. Try teaching your child instead of taking the fun/learning experience away.

          • Paityn Masters

            I bet you had a lot of pressure growing up, huh? Stress is one of the factors for early development of fine motor skills. Don’t get me wrong… stress within the window of tolerance is essential for development. Yet, with every skill that is finely tuned… there is a neuronal pruning away of other possibilities. If a child correlates putting caps on markers with pleasing their parents… and pleasing their parents as a condition for receiving love… that would be a skill a child would develop very quickly. Then the child grows up… pleasing everyone else, becoming attuned to everyone else’s needs and desire, rather than living from her own true feelings and her own deepest dreams and desires. Do you have enough love for yourself in order to risk the failure that comes with living creatively?

          • Teila

            We can’t presuppose – however many children correlate cleaning up with being responsible and contributing to the household, as they emulate their parents… but then (depending on who your kids play-date with), their cohorts are taught to do the same, and it comes naturally… like wiping ones face with a napkin at a young age – it’s not to please the parent, rather the child comes to favor clean and dry over dirty and wet. Kids who aren’t taught to recap pens, re-box crayons, clean their rooms, make their beds, wash hands with soap, brush teeth, comb hair, etc.. will often pick up the habit if those things are what their playdate does.

            Paityn, you don’t have to “mind your own business” as it’s good to know what others think, and likewise to share you opinion. It’s a public forum where adults can have conversations.. while being inspired to do so cordially, whether they agree or not.

          • Sue

            What??? Really??? Kids can be loved AND put caps in markers.

          • Paityn Masters

            I also wanted to add… I hardly ever leave a comment, and I’m usually pretty good at minding my own business. My feeling and my reaction tells me that there is something deeper within my own Self that I need to look at. I may not be objective… I just wanted to be honest about what I realized.

          • Teila

            Sam, you’re 100% correct; it’s always a treat to read something from a parent who understands that kids by-and-large are simple to deal with if you actually teach and train them. If your kid is old enough use a crayon, etc., then s/he is old enough to re-box them and put pen caps on and keep things out of their mouth that doesn’t belong. If the child is old enough to play with toys, s/he is old enough to put them away and make his or her own bed properly.

          • Racheal Urbalejo

            They have non drying markers

        • Michelle

          Smaller children leave the caps off of markers also, and they dry out.

          Reply
          • Racheal Urbalejo

            My son has a general disgust for marker caps.

        • Jenny

          Yes, good point Karin! I’m all for the chalkboard and chalk. I mean so what if it creates some dust. Buy some pledge and vacuum once a week. If chalk falls onto the carpet it doesn’t stain. I can recall always wanting to be the one called on in class as a young grade schooler to get to write on the chalkboard. I loved it. I think kids hVefun with it. I’m doing a project right now with the headboard of a crib and I’m making the solid panel on it the chalkboard and painting the rest with a little school chair to match for my granddaughters Bday. I can’t wait to see it all finished.

          Reply
        • Pualani

          Completely agree. Chalk…no mess..dusting is so much easier than soaking clothes, shampooing carpets, shampooing couches. Cleaning other walls that the kids deside to draw on…

          Reply
        • Teresa

          Not to mention the toxic smell of dry erase markers gives me a headache before my first word is written. Chalk is much cooler, in my opinion.

          Reply
      • Laura

        Sounds like David has a vested interest.  Boo.

        Reply
      • Amanda

        I have a 3 and 6 yr old and theres NO way I’d give them markers for their room. Chalkboard dust I can handle.

        Reply
        • Kelsey

          I don’t know if you have done anything with the chalkboard or not, if so, or if you still wanted to… I went through Amazon and found DUSTLESS chalk. It is amazing. We have a 2 yr old and 4 yr old, they LOVE their wall. And dust is very hard to find unless they scrub the chalk on the wall.
          Just thought I would share what I found

          Reply
          • Kristie Barnett

            Awesome, Kelsey – I’ll have to check that out! Thanks so much for sharing.

      • Carmen

        What is the footprint ratio for markers and chalk. How much waste are you throwing out?

        Reply
      • elisa

        Plus chalk is biodegradable and that is a nice feature – without having to toss markers.

        Reply
      • Liza

        Sydney, did you just use the word “jew” as a derogatory comment? Seriously? I feel like I went back in time to 1935.

        Reply
        • jewlie

          juw

          Reply
      • Srsly?

        I can’t believe this comment is still here…

        Reply
      • Lea

        It has been studied and children learn how to write better on a surface with resistance. A markerboard does not provide that. So thats one reason. I have had a chalkboard in my basement for two years now. I got it for free – so thats another reason. Painters tape comes on and off it without damage, very useful for a preschool teacher; reason three. Chalk and water are cheaper than markers and a special cleaner, and water is safer for the kids. We have used chalk bombs, chalk sponged, chalk spray; all made by the children with Dollar Store items. As far as residue, children create residue. I vacuum up after them and I run it under the chalkboard. Never had a surplus of chalk dust all over everything. Those are somethings for you to consider instead of taking an indignant stance against people who like chalkboards. I could not do a quarter of the things I do with a markerboard and their fine motor coordination would suffer.

        Reply
      • Amy

        Nope don’t agree… I can just see children drawing all over furniture ect

        Reply
    • Mkovak

      Use the new chalk pens and you won’t have that problem. They are at hobby lobby.

      Reply
    • brenna

      Hi, would the chalkboard paint work with acrylic? I need to paint a pane of glass, and want it to stick.
      Thanks! (Great Post!!)
      Brenna

      Reply
    • Lauretta

      Can anyone tell me if there is a magnetic paint that could be used as a white board as well with dry erase markers? I’m looking to prepare a wall that we could post things to with magnets or with writing, but we also need the space to remain white so that we can use it as a projector screen. Our space is limited it must serve many purposes. Any suggestions would be most helpful!

      Reply
      • David B. Lytle

        I make and sell Magically Magnetic Paint additive. You mix this dry powder with white primer paint and paint at least two coats on any wall, three or four coats for greatest strength, and magnets will stick to the wall like it was made of steel. Finish with a coat of your regular color finish paint with no additive and you are done. We also make and sell a material that is white, write and wipe on the front and sheet magnet on the back. It will stick beautifully to the magnetic paint on the wall. You can use markers on this Write and Wipe Magna-Mount material as well as use it for a projector screen. When not in use, simply remove it from the wall, roll it up and store it in a mailing tube. You can find all our products at http://www.lyt.com. I have been in business since 1989 and invented the first magnetic photo frames, which also stick beautifully to my magnetic paint on walls.

        Reply
        • Ashley B.

          Here’s a question for you david…can I double the additive for say my first coat? Or here’s another idea…adding your powder additive to the magnetic paint they sell at the store to make it stronger for one or two coats and then put regular strength coats on top-just to cut down on how many coats I have to do. 2 extra magnetic coats sounds better to me than 4-5 less magnetic coats.
          I’m trying to make a magnetic (strong) chalk board backsplash for my kitchen.

          Reply
        • MEZ

          David

          Can you please respond to Ashley B comment as I am interested in the response

          Reply
      • slivings

        Buy a magnetic whiteboard

        Reply
    • Eliza

      Instead of paints we used self-adhesive films recently, we have 2 in 1, magnetic wall that you can write on and we were even able to print on them. Looks cool.

      Reply
  2. Kelly

    I did not know that about the chalkboard paint. Good to know for future projects!

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Yeah, it’s pretty cool that you can make your own so easily!

      Reply
      • Chantal

        I just recently made my own chalkboard paint in orange and purple… it worked amazingly. I can claim that this recipe is tried, tested, and true!

        Reply
  3. Jamie

    Love, love, LOVE THIS! I’m obsessed with chalkboard paint. I repainted a chalk board for our house, plus I’ve made chalkboards for a certain niece and nephew. I’ve always used the spray paint, which isn’t bad, but it isn’t great. Plus, you can’t get it in all those fun colors – ha! I’m pretty excited to know how to make my own now. And good stuff about the magnetic paint. I’ve thought about doing the same thing (for the purposes of magnetic poetry) on kitchen cabinets or some other fun place and now I’ve got the scoop. This might be my favorite post so for!

    Reply
  4. Cammie

    When you make your own chalkboard paint, do you use oil based or water based? Latex or no? Thank you!!

    Reply
      • Denise

        Can’wait to try the chalkboard formula…I have alot of black latex paint , but it may be a satin finish, is that o,k, or does it have to be flat paint

        Reply
        • Ashley B.

          I would say matte/flat….no sheen at all if you can help it.

          Reply
  5. Sarah

    Do you need to let the chalkboard paint dry for 3 days like the commercial stuff? something to do with the grout being added? I’m about to refinish the front of our fridge which is old and rusty (real fixer upper we moved into) and chalkboard would be perfect, would like to find the cheapest option. what about primer, any old will do?

    Reply
  6. Julie

    I am currently on coat 12 or 13 of my magnetic paint project…I can get the magnet to actually stay on the board now. Just wondering how many coats it would take to get a strong magnetism in the paint. I am thinking 20 -24 coats! Anybody tried it??

    Reply
    • David B. Lytle

      It should only take two coats to get magnets to stick. Spray magnetic paint may take more. The most important thing is to stir the magnetic paint very throughly when you start to get the magnetic particles in the paint held in suspension in the paint and then stir it again every time you add more magnetic paint to your paint tray. The magnetic particles are heavier than the paint and will settle to the bottom. When you get a premixed magnetic paint, these heavy particles are all on the bottom of the can in a thick sludge. Even the store mechanical mixer can’t giggle them loose. You need to mix it by hand. My Magically Magnetic paint additive is a dry powder that mixes instantly with any white primer paint and stays white. It only takes five seconds to stir it up and you are ready to paint. Some people prefer three coats and even four coats of magnetic paint, but it your are needing more than four, you are either doing something wrong or asking magnetic paint to do what only solid steel can do. Learn more about magnetic paint and what you can do with it on my web site at http://www.lyt.com .

      Reply
    • Chris

      We did magnetic paint for our daughter’s room in our last house. I think the key to getting a good bite out of the magnets is to be constantly stirring up the paint. The magnetism comes from metal filings in teh paint, and they really want to settle out. By having a helper constantly stir the paint, and only applying as much as you can before settlement, you may get better results. I got a good hold out of 2 coats of paint, but not a fantastic one.

      Reply
  7. Dominique

    Silly me – I Googled “painting a magnetic chalkboard” after I went through the trouble of 4 coats of magnetic paint (still barely holds a magnet) and a coat of chalkboard paint. I’m looking for some clever trim ideas to finish up the project. But really, the work, the mess, the cost, it has occurred to me that I should have just found a source for a good, strong magnetic board. Next time. You’ve got a lovely site. First time I came across it, but I’ll be back. Cheers.

    Reply
    • Tabitha

      Dominique.. I am doing that VERY same thing right now… So bummed!! I can not stand wasting my time on ANYTHING that doesn’t work! Because I/we have to fix it to boot!

      Reply
  8. Jessi

    I literally just wrote on my things to do: return metal primer and purchase magnetic primer for chalkboard. I’m putting one in my daughter’s room. After reading your site, I had to rewrite me to do list, which included going to the recyling plant to see if I could get a chunk of steel. Thank you so much for posting what you did – I can get super frustrated, and I know I would have flipped out for sure at putting on more than 3 coats! Thanks so much : ).

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      So glad to save you the trouble, Jessi! Good luck on your project 🙂

      Reply
  9. David B. Lytle

    I came across your site and read with interest your “truth about magnetic paint”. Much of what you say is correct, but there is a lot more to know about magnetic paint than paint it on your wall and magnets will stick. First there are different brands of magnetic paint. Some are pre-mixed with primer paint and are difficult to stir up. They go on black or a very dark gray color. I invented a dry magnetic paint additive that mixes with white primer. It mixes up easily in seconds and is fresh every time you use it. It goes on white and stays white on your wall. Because it stays white, it covers easily with one coat of any color finish paint. Two coats of any magnetic paint is required to get any magnets to stick. Many people prefer three or even four coats for maximum magnetic attraction.

    Not all magnets will stick well to magnetic paint on a wall. Cheap magnets and heavy magnets may actually fall right off. I had some plastic letters once that were made in china. They had small plastic magnets in the center of each letter. They were so weak that they would not even stick to the steel door on my fridge. They didn’t have a chance of sticking to magnetic paint. Magnetic paint only attracts magnets because it has millions of microscopic metal particles in the paint. It is these particles that attract magnets, not the paint. The paint only holds the particles on the wall. The more coats of the magnetic paint you get on the wall, the stronger the magnetic attraction of the wall. That is, unless you didn’t get the magnetic p[aint mixed up well enough. In the pre-mixed brand, the metal particles are heavier than the paint and settle to the bottom of the can and sit there for months on the store shelf. When you have the paint store man mix it on his mechanical mixer, it won’t mix. The metal particles just stick to the bottom of the can in a thick packed mud. You need to scrape it off the can bottom with a screw driver and beat it into submission with a paint stick. My Magically Magnetic Paint Additive mixes up instantly and easily in seconds every time.

    If you want a strong magnetic area to stick the magnets on you fridge door, the ones you have collected over the years on trips and in cereal boxes, get the steel panel like the article says and adhere it to your wall. Nothing attracts magnets like solid steel. But if you want to have a beautiful magnetic all to display photos, the kid’s art or a million other things magnetically, magnetic paint will do the trick beautifully. You just need to know what you can and can’t expect from the materials. Magnetic paint is made to attract sheet magnets and rare earth magnets. Sheet magnets are the kind of magnets used to make magnetic business cards and magnetic signs for car doors. They stick well because the also have millions of tiny metal particles in them that have been magnetized. Their strength is weak compared to a strong rare earth magnet but they are much larger and very light so they stick well to magnetic paint. Sheet magnet is what is used for the magnetic poetry in the article. Sheet magnet comes in 15 mil, 20 mil, 30 mil and 60 mil thick. The thicker the magnet, the stronger the attraction.

    In summary, mix the magnetic paint well before you paint. Before every coat, mix it up again to keep the metallic particles in suspension in the paint. Particles left in the paint can or the paint tray don’t do your wall any good. Use a 1/4 inch foam paint roller to apply the magnetic paint. A regular fiber roller can allow the particles to get trapped in the spaces between the fibers. Again, what gets caught in the roller doesn’t end up on the wall. A foam roller is closed cell meaning there is nowhere for particles to get caught. It will also allow you to get the smoothest magnetic wall. All magnetic paint will have a slight texture since the particles don’t dissolve in the paint. When the paint dries, the particles will show as a light texture. Tape around the area you want to be magnetic and paint the magnetic paint inside this taped off area. That will produce a nice clean straight edge around the magnetic area. Finish with a coat of your choice of any color finish paint on the entire wall. This will make a nice looking finished job and the light texture of the magnetic material will be less obvious. The finish coat of paint also helps to protect the magnetic particles. If you want to make a magnetic chalkboard wall, don’t use a mixture of magnetic paint and chalkboard paint. Paint the magnetic paint first and when its dry, sand it lightly with 000 sandpaper to get rid of any high tips of excess texture. You aren’t trying to make the wall completely smooth. Then paint the chalkboard paint as your finish coat.

    Visit my web site for more information on using magnetic paint and all kinds of magnetic picture frames and magnets to use on your wall. Magnetic paint is a wonderful product and works very well if you know how to use it. I hope I have added to your knowledge on the subject. Check out my site and if you have particular questions you are invited to call and speak to me. Look at our testimonials pages and see how my customers have successfully used my Magically Magnetic Paint on their walls. http://www.lyt.com

    Reply
    • Joane

      From a lawyers perspective I think it is very important to know that anyone who buys the additive from Lytle and mixes the paint themselves is violating patent law. I would advise that anyone recommending this technique further on blogs do their homework and understand the implications. David Lytle should know this as well, he is playing with fire here.

      Reply
      • Phil

        I do not understand how this would involve making the people who mix the paint themselves guilty of violating patent law. Patent law generally doesn’t apply to an individual making something of this nature for themselves, but more by making a profit selling something. While it is possible that Lytle may be violating patent law, I have doubts that the selling of a dry mixture of metal filings (and whatever else may be in there, if anything) for addition to paint is covered by a patent since the mixture ratios would be what is patentable. It is not like metal filings are a unique product that the big companies are making and he has copied. As well, what type of patent (there are more than one) is held by the companies (plural) who make magnetic paint. If multiple companies are selling magnetic paint, the patent cannot be that broad ranging.

        I also don’t see what is different from buying his additive than you telling people to buy an additive (unsanded grout)and putting it in regular paint to create a chalkboard. While I think Lytle did a TERRIBLE job of selling his product, and the product isn’t worth the money he wants (Metal filings don’t cost that much, the markup must be huge on this), I do not think that people who buy the product and put it in paint themselves are violating patent law. And definitely not any more of a violation than following your advice.

        I do like the website, have visited it before, but this is a weird comment for you.

        Reply
        • Mikel

          Agreed! This is not violation of patent law unless you intend to sell. Also we had done this sort of thing long before it had became a patent.

          Great post though op.

          Reply
      • Sean

        Almost anything that’s legal to own is legal to construct for personal use. There are a few devices that are illegal to tamper with or modify but purely for safety, security, or substance control reasons. Unless you live in North Korea don’t be so willing to get nannied by the State.

        Reply
        • Josie

          I just wanted to say how I love the above comment by Sean “Unless you live in North Korea don’t be so willing to get nannied by the State”. It is too funny but very true making it more funny. So many people live in fear of the government through media and lack of knowledge about our laws and the constitution. Anyway just wanted to say that and I love this blog.

          Reply
      • Daniel

        First, I work in patent law and I can guarantee you that without a through legal read of the claims in a patent you CANNOT make the statement that someone is infringing a patent. To the others,a patent prohibits others from making, using,importing, offering for sale, and selling, this not have to have a direct commercial connection. Anyway ignore Joane.

        Reply
      • David B. Lytle

        Joanne “says” she is a lawyer. I say she is a scare monger. I have been selling the magnetic paint additive I invented for over 15 years with not a problem from anyone. You are doing nothing wrong or illegal by using it to paint your walls.

        Reply
  10. David B. Lytle

    After writing the above, I thought it might be good to show your readers this picture of one of my customer’s walls with a collection of their family photos, all in heavy wooden frames, hanging nicely by magnetism, on a wall painted with our Magically Magnetic Paint. Here is the link to the photo. http://www.lyt.com/images/InitialSet/wiley02.jpg

    Here is another link to our Testimonials page with many more photos of magnetic walls and letters from our customers showing how they used our Magically Magnetic paint. http://www.lyt.com/servlet/the-file/testimonial.html/Page

    Reply
  11. Jack

    Thanks,

    I built a restaurant in SF back in 1998 using a lot of galvanized metal sheets. One large wall was galvanized metal painted with chalkboard paint. This was before the secret of the ingredients was exposed. I am now building a children’s tech and science museum in Assisi, Italy and I wanted to do this again. I was considering the magnetic paint, but it is double or triple the cost here and the surface area I need to do is large. After reading your post, I think I will stick with the galvanized sheet metal.

    Reply
    • Tracy Davis

      I am working on painting sheet metal with appliance paint and finding out if I can create a decent magnetic whiteboard for my class room wall. All of these specialty products are so pricey, and my test piece is doing well- $10 for a 2 x 3 piece of metal and maybe a dollar’s worth of appliance paint successful so far. Letting marker sit for a couple of days to see if it still erases. This was one crappy coat and no sanding… I contacted the sheet metal place to pick up 5X 10sheets for $70 each. Way cheper than a tiny thing of paint that covers “up to 35 square feet” may this will help you

      Reply
  12. Paula

    Thanks for the post! I just made a small magnetic chalkboard for my fridge using chalkboard paint on galvanized metal and was ready to buy the magnetic paint to do a portion of a wall (then overcoat with the chalkboard paint). I will stick with the galvanized metal. I already have a quart of the chalkboard paint that I don’t want to waste so I will not be trying the other product mentioned above. The chalkboard paint covers well in 2 -3 coats so you will save me a tremendous amount of time!!!!
    Does anyone have any cool ideas about how to attach the galvanized metal to the wall????

    Reply
  13. David Lytle

    Paula, the most direct way to mount the sheet of metal to your wall would be with a few well placed wood screws into the studs behind the wall board. It will require making holes in the wall to find the wooden studs.
    Hold your metal piece up against the wall where you want to mount it.
    Get it straight and level and then draw a faint pencil line around the metal piece.
    Take the metal down and draw a straight horizontal line across about an inch below the line at the top of the outline and another about an inch higher than the bottom of the outline.
    Now, with a thin nail, about three inches long, use a hammer to drive it in about 3/4 of an inch into the wall along the line. If it goes in and hits nothing, there is no stud there. You only need to go about an inch into the wall to know.
    When it hits a stud, try a couple more holes close to the left and right of the hole that hit the stud. The stud should be 1 1/2 inches wide. Mark it.
    You can hear a difference in the wall when you knock on it. The sound changes to a solid sound when the stud is behind the wall in that area. The rest will sound more hollow. That will give you a good clue to where to look for the studs.
    The studs run up and down so a stud at the top will also be where you find a stud at the bottom of your outlined area.
    Drill holes in the metal sheet slightly larger than the screws you will use at these locations where the studs are and use screws about two inches long to fasten the metal to the wall.

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      wow, great advice david!!!! thanks for sharing 🙂

      Reply
      • Corey

        Put holes in your walls till you find something?

        Reply
    • Lady O

      Or you could just use a battery-powered stud-finder…

      Reply
      • Lynnea

        That’s what I was thinking!

        Reply
  14. kelly

    I just tried the store bought chalkboard spray paint on a portion of white enamel plyboard that I had cut to fit in an antique frame that I had purchased. I was so excited and and couldn’t wait for the third and final coat to dry so that I could try it out and was SOOOOOO disappointed to find out that it didn’t! I used the colored crayon shaped chalk that my daughter had so maybe that is part of the problem but I can just tell by the way it applies to the board it isn’t going to ever work well. I’m thinking about trying your recipe if I can talk my husband into a thirty-plus mile trip to Lowes to get some unsanded grout. I was worried that the surface might be the problem. I sanded the board and sprayed a white primer on it before applying my chalkboard paint and even sanded the board slightly between the second and third coats. Is it because it’s the spray you think? I’m wanting a cute little message board to set up as decoration for my SIL’s baby shower in a few weeks. I’m really trying to get all these little things out of the way so that I can have plenty of time for everything else. Any suggestions you could give would be greatly appreciated.
    Thanks and God bless!

    Reply
  15. Patrish

    Hi,

    Quick question…. Can I paint a piece of sheet metal with chalboard paint and use it as a magnetic board as well as a chalkboard?

    Thanks,

    Patrish

    Reply
    • Leslie

      If it’s for your kitchen, try a cookie sheet. Works great!

      Reply
    • David B. Lytle

      Patrish, yes you can paint chalkboard paint on a piece of sheet steel and make a magnetic chalkboard. The thing that interrupt the attract tion of magnets to a sheet of steel is space between the steel surface and the magnet. A coat or two of paint will not add enough space between the steel and a magnet to interfere with the magnetic attraction. Many sheets of paper will sometimes interrupt the pull of a magnet on magnetic paint or a sheet of solid steel by adding enough space between the steel and the magnet.

      The problem with painting on a sheet of steel is the steel is very smooth and paint might not stick well to it. After the paint is dry it may scratch off very easily when you write on it with chalk. If you want to paint on steel, first sand it with fine emery cloth sand paper to rough up the surface to give the paint something to stick to and hang on. They call that “tooth”. Then clean it well with detergent and rinse it clean. Many steel companies coat their product with oil to keep it from rusting in transit and on store shelves. This oil will keep your paint from sticking.

      You can buy a sheet of steel at your local big box hardware store or for a larger sheet, try a local heating and air conditioning shop that makes their own duct work. Then can even bend over the sharp edges for you and drill mounting holes.

      Reply
      • Jeff

        You can paint Metal as long as you use a bonding primer and a little scuffing of the surface. Any paint vendor can tell you what you need.

        The trick to magnetic paint is you must stir it constantly. I am a commercial painting contractor we have installed this on quite a few occasions for some clients who demand a working product. 2 coats wont do it. 4 coats is best. When the product fails is mostly because the metal is in the bottom of the can and not thoroughly mixed into the paint. To help with this for a home user grab a cordless drill and a whip from a mixer. Use a sturdy wood paint stick or like item to ensure you have the compacted material in the bottom of the can loose. Whip it on a medium speed don’t put to much air in the product, your not making mashed potatoes here. Once you have it thoroughly mixed, a paint stick stirring the product in the can after that will mix it plenty. if you think you’ve stirred it enough stir it again.

        Reply
  16. Dave B

    Just left the store and all they had was the spray paint… Bought it knowing it would suck and make a mess… Hopefully I can save my project with your method

    Reply
  17. Joyce Snelten

    Hi..Kristie….thank you for this post! I was at Home Depot yesterday because I had an idea to paint galvanized sheet metal (magnetic) with chalkboard paint to use in my craft room (to sketch ideas/adhere products etc…) I want a black background as the chalkboard, but do I need to prime the metal first? Do you think the regular chalkboard paint in black is not good to use? Or will it be fine in my application?
    Thanks for your help!

    Reply
  18. Shanagh

    Hi! Thanks for this, I’m on a tight budget but really want to make a magnetic chalkboard, so this is great, the only issue I’m having is that I have no idea what unsanded tile grout is! Would the standard (I’m guessing sanded) tile grout do the same trick?

    Reply
    • cindy

      sanded grout will be too gritty and difficult to write on. Unsanded grout is used for wall tiles, that usually have a glossy finish- the unsanded grout won’t scratch the surface of glossy tiles. You can usually find it anywhere they sell tiles or local hardware stores. You don’t need much- the hard part may be finding a small bag/box of grout.

      Reply
  19. cindy

    have you tried the homemade chalkboard paint yourself?

    I just finished a whole wall in my kitchen and even though I carefully stirred the lumps out, after it dried, I’ve found in many places tiny bumps of grout.

    and what about the sanding off with 150 grit? I just used 220, and lightly, lightly sanded. But it seems to have taken off some of the paint in spots. I had given it two good coats and still I have some spots wearing through. Now I will have to touch up several spots and then re-sand before I condition with chalk.
    Not sure the homemade stuff is that great for large surfaces.

    -having some regrets

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Cindy,
      Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the homemade version of chalkboard paint – I’m sure that will be helpful to others reading this!

      Reply
  20. Chris

    I have used the Benjamin Moore chalkboard paint numerous times. It’s great. Of course it’s black, but it works. Very well.

    I have also used the Rustoleum (I’m pretty sure) magnetic paint. This is a roll on product. 5 coats works well if you have reasonably strong magnets.

    The most recent project was an easel for my daughter. 5 coats of magnetic, one coat of chalkboard. The Melissa & Doug magnetic numbers and letters stick just fine. The chalkboard wipes clean with a damp paper towel. I always use a WhizzFlock (google it) roller cover to apply these products.

    They are water based and as someone else mentioned, you have to stir the magnetic paint to evenly distribute the iron that is in it. And stir periodically throughout the job.

    You can paint over the magnetic paint with any regular paint and the black color is not a problem at all if you are using a high quality paint. I use Benjamin Moore Aura.

    I am a professional painting and decorating contractor. These are high quality products that I use. Remember, most things that are cheap, are cheap for a reason. Top quality materials will yield a top quality job.

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Thanks for you knowledge and input, Chris. Great to hear from a pro!

      Reply
    • Ramiro

      Chris, I am doing a few researches from school and it would be really helpfull to me if I have the chance to talk to you. My email is [email protected], if you have the chance shoot me an email.

       

      Thank you very much.

      Reply
  21. Beeg

    Thanks for the tips! We currently tape our child’s artworks on our beautiful stainless steel fridge. Needless to say, it’s not the prettiest sight. I want to create a magnetic wall somewhere in the kitchen so we can post her artworks there. Yet, the only wall space available is narrow. I searched for magnetic boards for the size I need, and it could cost upwards of $100+! I don’t have the time to paint 24 coats of magnetic paint either. I am now heading over to Home Depot to get a galvanized sheet!

    Reply
    • Emily

      You probably have been long done with your project, but I just got 2 custom pieces of sheet metal for a very specific area (galvanized for a magnet board) at a sheet metal fabricator in town. These guys usually are making gutters or roofing things, but some are happy to cut custom sheets. It cost me $30 for part of a wall…which is kind of expensive, but at least I know it is the right size, fits the right place and will do what I want it to do.

      Reply
  22. Mary

    I have a question- I just bought some picture frames at a garage sale that I was planning to paint with chalkboard paint. I spray painted the frames black, but wanted to paint the inner part chalkboard. Can I paint directly on top of the glass with the acrylic paint/unsanded grout or will this not work? If not, what do you suggested that I do instead? Thank you!

    Reply
  23. Kim

    Hello, I was wandering if you would please tell me what kind of paint to use for the chalkboard paint. Acrylic craft paint or interior wall paint if wall paint would I buy flat? I have an idea of a craft I want to start making for kids so I need to know off this method is kid friendly? Thanks in advance for your help, Kim

    Reply
  24. Johanna

    I’m planning on painting an entire wall with chalkboard paint, so would it still be smart to put galvanized steel on the wall first? And if so, what is the best way to make it stay in tact?

    Reply
  25. Jennifer

    For those of you who have done the chalkboard paint, has the mess been an issue? Trying to convince husband to do it in daughters room but he is determined it will cause a big mess when writing. We could do it over tile or carpet, which would ya’ll recommend?

    Reply
    • Jennifer

      Go to home depot and get a gutter that you would put on your house (with endcaps) and put underneath the chalkboard paint. It serves as a holder for the chalk and it will collect the chalkdust without it going on the floor.

      Reply
  26. Candy

    Like most of you, I tried to create a Magnetic Chalk board prior to reading this post. Again, the chalk board work great but the magnetic effect was a waste of effort. I have managed to find a piece of 8’X4′, 20 gauge sheet of metal. Very Reasonable price. Good tip to take a magnet to make sure it is magnetic. I am looking forward to making a large Magnetic Chalk Board for my kitchen. I loved my stainless steel kitchen appliances…until I tried to post my daughters wonderful artwork. Live and learn..

    Reply
    • David B. Lytle

      Stainless steel is beautiful but unless it is cheap stainless steel, made with less nickel than the more expensive stainless, magnets will not stick. Magnets don’t stick to nickel, only steel. I make a material I call Magna-Mount that has self adhesive on the back and a clean smooth write and wipe surface on the front. It looks like a white vinyl sheet and magnets stick to it like they stick to steel. Just cut the material to the right size for your fridge door, peel off the protective paper backing, stick the sheet on your fridge door and you have a beautiful write and wipe magnetic mounting surface. Here is a link. http://www.lyt.com/servlet/the-file/magmtwritenwipe.html/Page

      Reply
  27. Ashley

    I found this article while looking into making a magnetic chalkboard. Benjamin Moore just came out with a chalboard paint product that can be tinted to any Benjamin Moore color (except for the Color Stories Collection). Thanks for the info about galvanized steel–I will probably stick with that tip and use BM’s new product. Most BM stores can save your name in their computer and keep track of the colors/products you buy so that they are easily duplicatable. Thank you for all this info!

    Reply
  28. Lydia

    I just found this page while searching for “how to make magnetic paint.” I’m glad to have found it. I will use your galvanized-steel trick instead. Thank you!

    Reply
  29. Anne

    Can the magnetic additive be added directly to chalkboard paint rather than painting the magnetic surface and painting the chalkboard over it?

    Reply
    • David B. Lytle

      Anne, it is always best to add the magically Magnetic paint additive to a white primer/sealer paint and paint enough coats on the wall to give you the desired magnetic pull and then sand the magnetic paint lightly with 000 sand paper when dry. You are sanding to knock off any little high spots of texture from the magnetic paint, not to sand it smooth. Then paint the magnetic paint. If you mix the magnetic additive with the chalkboard paint, the resulting texture may be too rough for your needs.

      Reply
  30. Courtney Schwab

    Would it work if I painted the magnetic galvanized steel with chalkboard paint? I'm looking for a two in one combo for my daughters' playroom. Do they sell the steel at Lowe's you think? Thank you!

    Reply
  31. H. Bodle

    We tried painting magnetic paint under our chalkboard paint on a big piece of wood.  The magnetic paint works only a little bit (which I would have found out earlier had I actually researched it).  So we have the chalkboard paint over top.  It is working well as a chalkboard, but the surface is rough because of the magnetic paint.  Do you have any suggestions as to how to smooth it out now that the whole thing is already finished?  I didn't know if sanding it down and then painting a little more chalkboard paint on would work or ruin it?  Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Amanda

      We did the same thing, Bodle. Definitely not a fan of the magnetic primer and really wish I would have researched it beforehand. We had the same problem you did and I knew we couldn't leave it that rough, so we took sandpaper (pretty sure most any will do, but the finer the better) and went ahead and sanded it afterwards and it is MUCH better now. The original result of the magnetic primer is still the same and everything is nice and smooth. We added a coat of chalkboard paint again afterwards, just in case. But fair warning, it's a messy job. Since your project is mobile I'd take it outside, otherwise there'll be a layer of black dust on everything. I'd also recommend a face mask or something, even outside. 

       

      For people who want to know more about magnetic primer: it's messy – we did a whole playroom wall and it's thick and goopy and splatters everywhere; the cleanup is similar to oil based products – mineral spirits or similar; and in the end you're left with a surface that isn't very magnetic at all and is very rough, even if you follow the application directions. In case you couldn't tell.. I don't recommend it. 🙂 

       

      Reply
  32. MaryEllen M.

    Hi, when you said when you add they regular paint, did you mean that your adding the regular paint to the chalkboard paint or are you making your own chalkboard paint?? I really found this very informational I just found that that part very confusing, so if you or anybody can define what that text means, I would be very, very grateful. Thank you!

    Reply
  33. Anita @ Cedar HIll

    Kristie, I just saw this post, although clearly it was written a long time ago. Thanks for the tip, since I'm working on a mambo chalkboard, and how I rethinking how I will make it. Maybe a sheet of metal would work well, since I could use magnets and chalk. I already bought the blackboard paint, but I guess I will use it, but I will keep this in mind for future projects.

     

    Reply
  34. Ramiro

    For what I read, one of the biggest concerns of using a paint for chalkboards is that you cannot choose colors. What about if you have the chance of buying paint for chalkboards having different colors to choose?

    Reply
  35. DeAnna

    Hey.. found this post after painting 5 coats of magnetic paint! I went back to Lowes and bought the larger round magnets that came 6 in a pack for $3… they work great and hold up paper well… my girls and I glued glass beads on them and made our own decorator magnets… I fou d that the premade magnets that you buy from stores that have ceramic/resin decoratjons on them can be heavy and that seems to be the problem, not the magnetic paint…. atleast it was in my case. …

    Reply
    • karyn

      Hi DeAnna did you get your magnetic paint from lowes? thanks!

      Reply
  36. Carole

    Thanks for info will use metal panel on wall

    Reply
  37. Rachel

    I really wish I could Pin this 🙁

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Why can’t you? Just hover your cursor over any pic and the “Pin” button should appear.

      Reply
  38. lisa

    I have a question that I hope you can help with. I have used the commercial brand of chalkboard paint twice, following the directions to the T. Both times the finish has come out “pocky” and after a short time even when cleaned with a damp cloth has become blurry. Is there a top coat that needs to be put on to make it smoother or should I just re do both projects (one is a wall, so I am leary!) thanks Lisa

    Reply
  39. Amy Snow

    What type of paint have you found works best on the galvanized steel sheets? Unfortunately, I found your post after have invested time and money in the magnetic paint . . . . . but also FORTUNATELY found it because I was wondering if paint would stick to galvanized steel. I thought I’d found my dream product in stainless steel mosaic tiles, but can’t find any that contain an alloy to attract magnets (my fridge is actual stainless, not stainless look, and magnets stick to it, but I don’t want to scratch it – sure wish someone would make tiles out of that!). Thanks for any tips you can give me! Amy

    Reply
  40. Crystal

    Can you use chalkboard paint over the galvanized steel?

    Reply
  41. Sam

    I loved your project, and was thinking about doing it on a wall in my soon-to-be home. I voiced it to my boyfriend and his only concern was the magnetizing aspect messing up other appliances in home.
    Now that he brought it up, I can’t get it out of me head.
    So, does it? Have you, or anyone seen a large magnetic sheet of steel covered in chalkboard paint present polarity problems with other appliances?

    Thank you in advance, Great read btw. Saved.

    Sam

    Reply
  42. Kasha

    I have a question. Can you paint the galvanized metal?
    * can chalk board paint be used on it?
    * will it maintain it’s metallic shine?
    Can dry erase markers be used on galvanized metal?
    Does anyone know if thee is a special paint/coating that can be used, that allows dry erase markers to be used on it?

    Reply
  43. Philip

    Do you have to mix the unsanded grout with water before mixing with the paint? I am having some difficulty removing lumps from the mix! Please help. Thanks!

    Reply
  44. BrittneyAnne

    Does anyone have any photos to share of their multi colored chalkboard project? I’m excited to use this idea and need color ideas!

    Reply
  45. Jenna

    I’m thinking about painting my (white) fridge with red chalk board paint! Any tips?!?

    Reply
  46. hope

    hi there
    I wonder ( does the magnetic work with the black chalkboard ) ..
    can i put a magnetic stuff on my wall after i paint it with chalkboard paint ?
    thank you

    Reply
  47. hope

    hi there .. I wonder ( does the magnetic work with the black chalkboard )
    can i use a magnetic stuff on my wall after i pain it with the black chalkboard paint ?

    thank you

    Reply
  48. Layla

    Hi, I painted my fridge with black matt laquer and after it dried i used the charkoal. When I tried to wipe it, with a damp cloth I saw it didnt wiped it all. It looks like it’s stained, like an old used charkboard. I didnt however, rob the entire thing with chark. anny sugestions?

    Reply
  49. Mia

    Nice! how do you remove it if you don’t want it anymore? if you put on the fridge?

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      You’d have to paint over it – maybe with Annie Sloan chalkpaint (NOT chalkboard paint).

      Reply
  50. Debbie foster

    Magnetic primer works like a charm. Roll it on what ever surface first. The more coats the more magnetic it is. Then paint over it. And there you go! Strong enough to hold most magnets. I used it to make a magnetic painting. Can be found at most home improvement stores..I got mine at Home Depot.

    Reply
  51. Jennifer

    Have you ever painted a magnetic surface like galvanized steel with chalkboard paint? if so how successful was this to get a “magnetic, chalkboard” surface?

    Reply
  52. BoredGirl

    I’ve been wanting to do some chalkboard-ing for a while, so I’m super glad I found this! Seems like the brush-on, like I’d been planning, is the way to go! I’ve passed your link on now for anyone else who might be interested. xoxoBG

    Reply
  53. Penny

    David B Lytle needs his own blog. Maybe discuss to grandiose topics or to pass judgement other ways. Thank you to the author of the original 🙂 Very informative.

    Reply
  54. Kate

    Hopefully you crafty folk can help with this question as I’ve had a hard time finding an answer: I, like Paula, am thinking of just hanging a piece of galvanized metal and painting it with chalk paint. The problem is TILE. I’m renting a small apartment (hence the need for space and magnetism) and can’t drill through our remove the tile… I’m contemplating drilling holes in the sheet metal and attaching suction cups? Or using screws from just above the tile and hanging the metal over the tiles with suction cups at the base? I was hoping to adhere spices on this metal so it will be holding some weight. Any ideas you have would be greatly appreciated, or if either of the above ideas are terrible…. Thank you!

    Reply
  55. Sue Brooks

    I bought large galvanized auto drip pans to create magnetic chalkboards for a library early lit program.I purchased spray chalkboard paint. Is there any prep to the galvanized sheets before applying chalkboard paint?

    I’ll be giving your chalkboard paint recipe a try, too.

    Thanks for sharing.

    Miss Sue Play and Learn

    Reply
  56. Ramona

    Hi! Please help with my project!
    We want to paimt with the chalkboard effect paint over the ceramic tiles on the entire wall surface of the kitchen. Here, in Romania, we have very limited options of products that would apply to ceramic tiles. Would your recipe with regular water based paint mixed with unsanded grout (as I understant, grout is the stuff that you put between the tiles) work for glossy ceramic tiles? Do I need to prepare in any way the surface if the tiles before I apply it? Thank you!

    Reply
  57. Jimmy

    This article actually contains misinformation. The metal back splash link is actually to an aluminum panel, and aluminum is not magnetic. She then mentions not using stainless steel, even though stainless steel can be magnetic, depending on its composition. Before posting stuff like this, you should check your facts.

    Reply
  58. Maureen King

    Thanks for the info. I was considering magnetic paint but love your alternative. Some of the comments refer to shaking and stirring the paint constantly. Have you tried it that way with better results? ~ FYI: I pinned your info to share with others on my personal boards and FB. 🙂

    Reply
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  60. jamerson

    do you know if I could use a metal board and paint the chalk board paint on top of that

    Reply
  61. Katie

    Any ideas on how to cover layers and layers of wall paper that I have been unsuccessful at getting off my daughters wall? I’ve tried everything from steam to chemicals to scrapers. Nothing is working and I am afraid I’m starting to cut into the wall. A friend after trying to help one day recommended I just cover it, I’m starting to think he’s right! Two weeks into this working every evening and Saturdays and still no wall is done and three are maybe a quarter done but not well! Please I’m out of ideas…

    Reply
  62. Sherri

    I wish I had seen this before I used an entire quart of magnetic paint to cover a 2-foot x 3-foot plywood board. It’s still not magnetic enough to hold the tin spice jars I want to hang on it. I’ll get the galvanized sheet metal next.

    Thanks Kristie

    Reply
  63. Amy

    So, the consensus is that if you stir the tin well you can get your magnetic paint to work. Does it cut down on your WiFi transmission though? That’s what I really want to know.

    Reply
  64. Matthew Baker

    Another idea for a magnetic surface is a steel oil drip pan I got two at Walmart in the automotive section for 10 bucks each – I have them hung side-by-side in my office – they have a very nice brushed aluminum appearance and rounded off seam around all edges which does a great job framing the piece and concealing the hanging device I used to attach them to the wall.

    Reply
  65. Kelly

    Are the galvanized sheets edges sharp?

    Reply
  66. Stephanie

    So glad I found this! I’m making a magnetic chalkboard wall this weekend!

    Reply
  67. caritol

    Does anyone know if i can paint over unused chalkboard with magnetic paint? We wont be using the chalk i just want the magnets

    Reply
  68. Kasia

    I have pottery blue magnetic boards. I want to change decor. I want to make them black or dark brown. Can I spray paint them? If yes, what kind of paint should I use. Thank you!

    Reply
  69. thefolia

    I came across this post and thought you would discuss the toxicity of the product. I just read that there is an environmentally friendly chalk paint that is water-based and uses natural pigments but they didn’t mention the brand. Oh, well off to some more investigating. Happy Nesting.

    Reply
  70. Jeremy Lee

    Interesting article.

    My company has been making magnetic wallcoverings since 2006. We found paint too messy and time consuming – so our wallpapers have metal powder in the material – and the receptivity is equivalent to 10+ coats of paint.

    Most popular is the ma plus grey liner which can be painted, covered with fabric or print and also comes in dry erase version.

    Hope some of your readers find it useful.

    Reply
  71. Stephen Straus

    There’s something new in the world of magnetic paint. New Hooked on Paint Hanging Magnets – http://www.hookedonpaint.com – are 5x stronger than any other magnets and can hold picture frames and more on magnetic paint. They’re completely new magnet technology and are a real game changer in interior design.

    Reply
  72. Valeska

    We recently launched a new formula for Candy Whiteboard Paint, Candy Chalkboard Paint, Magnetic Paint. All paints improved almost 200%, specially the magnetic paint. Our Magnetic Paint also can hold photo frames, wall clock, a book with magnet, etc! almost all with magnet. for more details visit us at http://www.candypaintasia.com

    And BTW our Paint Kits are Eco friendly, and Very Low in VOC!

    Reply
  73. Jan

    Doesn’t anyone just buy an easel anymore? My children received one from Gramma for Christmas. One side was a wipe off board, one side was a chalkboard, and there was a roll of paper up in the middle that came down and slid under two wood braces. Both sides had a caddy to hold paint cups, chalk, markers, etc. I used a cute mat underneath when they were painting. Worked great, no messes, and now the easel is folded slim in the closet under the staircase waiting for the grandchildren. 🙂

    Reply
  74. Yuly

    Hello, I am need of some advice. I bought my daughter an double sided easel for her to enjoy painting. One side is chalkboard and the other is dry-erase. She only uses the dry-erase side and majority of the time it is covered with a large paper for her paintings. I wanted to know if i can make the chalkboard section magnetic somehow. I do not care to invest in chalk because its dusty and i have a small toddler that i am sure would love to eat chalk. My little one enjoys magnetic letters on the refrigerator but I would like to keep the toys and mess in one spot. Is there a way to make the chalkboard side magnetic? Would i be able to use the magnetic paint since its only for magnetic letters and numbers. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

    Reply
  75. Alyssa Boyle

    I’m a little late to the party but I’m so glad I stopped by. Thank you everyone for the tips. You saved me a lot of time, money and heartache! Would like to know if the electronics/wifi issues raised have an merit, though.

    Reply
  76. Lizzie

    Wish I had read this before I used magnetic paint in my classroom! :/ now nothing will stay up and the texture doesn’t allow for tape to stick on it… Any suggestions as to how I can remove it?

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Just paint over it with latex paint, Lizzie. Sorry!

      Reply
  77. eric

    Question! Can I use chalk-paint on galvanised steel sheet? From your advice about it would appear this can be done. However I know that galvanised zinc will lift off ordinary paint. So can I use it and not worry about it lifting off?

    Thank you

    Eric

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Eric,
      I don’t know – that’s not something I’ve personally tried. Sorry!

      Reply
  78. Jeremy

    Hello,
    I am a big fan of using magnets on walls
    We manufacture and sell a range magnetic wallcoverings including writeable versions. We tried magnetic paints in the early days but found the labour to apply enough coats meant it was never cost efficient. More recently we have seen magnetic glass and plaster products – which are interesting alternatives.

    Reply
  79. Sophia

    Actually I had great success with magnetic paint. I framed it in a simple shaker style that matches the cork board on the other side of the pantry. I could take a picture of it if you’d all like to see. I did it 5 or 6 years ago and still working strong and hanging kids artwork. I will admit the magnet counts but it’s not like they are special magnets. One is a clip magnet from Disney world so pretty much generic stuff you buy as souvenirs.

    Reply
  80. marc

    Well i must completely disagree with this. Just finished paying $9 bucks for a can of chalk board paint that covered an entire wall. The time and probably money it saved me from buying grout and sand paper and mixing it all together and doing 3 or 4 coats and hope it works is was worth it. It came out great. They also make cheaper, clear coating you paint over any wall now and turns it into chalk board.

    I also used magnetic primer. just 1 coat and magnets stick perfect to it no issues at all. Everything from normal abc mag letters to the great big magnets we buy in every town we go to as a memory of our visit. Before you think twice, i would recommend researching peoples success and duplicating their process. THis is what i did and for 40 bucks i have a huge magnetic chalk board wall, ceiling to floor that took 1 coat of each to do and my babies love it!

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Good information – thanks for sharing your experience. I wrote this post 5 years ago, so they must have improved the formulas for magnetic paint since then.

      Reply
    • Ame

      Where did you get chalkboard paint for so cheap? All I can find is 25$ for a can that only covers 100 square feet. At 9$ I agree that it is not worth the trouble to make it yourself, but for say 100$, it is!

      Reply
  81. Leigh

    Any idea how to make an old chalkboard magnetic??? My dementia residents and I at the nursing home I work at would appreciate your help.

    Reply
  82. matt

    your better off to get a thin piece of steel sheetmetal and use the oil based chalkboard spray or oil prime and a latex chalk board paint of your choice of colour
    mount steel to wall( screws or construction adhesive)
    ive even seen them embedded into the drywall but thats alot of work
    works much better than the paint

    Reply
  83. Suburbian

    This is such a suburban white chick topic.

    Reply
    • Mike

      Well it appears she’s white, and from her profile must live in the Nashville area. So what’s your point? Perhaps you’re being humorous. Hopefully so and not some stooge troll.

      Thank you for your post Kristie and all the helpful comments.

      Reply
    • Laura

      Funny that my friend who makes a chalk board wall in each of her homes and pointed out a perfect place for me to make one myself is a young American black woman. She’s SUPER into crafting too and made me and another friend gorgeous Christmas wreaths. She’s in her mid-twenties and has lived everywhere from Ohio, Cali, Miami, and now NYC (with a few semesters of college in China and Germany). Not the picture of Suburban White Chick by any means. Meanwhile I look like the stereotype and I turn to her for advice! So maybe you want to rethink that sentiment, troll.

      Reply
  84. Cheryse Botha

    Thank you for the post, definitely has me reconsidering my DIY project. THANK YOU!!

    Reply
  85. Miranda

    Sounds like your client may not have followed the directions with the magnetic paint. I have used Rustoleum’s magnetic primer on two separate houses, and it works perfectly well after three coats. The trick is that you have to mix each can for about 15-20 minutes before use. If you don’t sufficiently mix it, it definitely won’t work.

    Reply
  86. Laura

    I just bought magnetic primer and chalkboard paint for an area behind kitchen cabinets that faces a dining area. Despite my husband’s pleas I can’t fathom taking the cabinets down and losing storage from our new-to-us kitchen. The back of the cabinets is a wood panel, and looks like a fake wood. A friend suggested a magnetic chalk board for holiday messages and to display some of our kids art. I found another blog before this page that said 6 coats of the magnetic primer gives the magnetic power I’d want but it makes the surface so rough chalk paint isn’t recommended! So I don’t know what to do. I’ll settle for just chalk board and many make the trim around magnetic but I’m actually going to look into the product of that guy Mike who keeps claiming his product is the holy grail for this project. (which I hope it is!) Glad I found your page and glad I looked before I opened my new paint. 🙂

    Reply
  87. carla boakes

    Can you use standard chalk pens, rather than actual chalk on the cheap grout-adding method?

    Reply
  88. KeKyKo

    Wow, fantastic post/article. I simply found your site looking for metallic paint to create a magnetic idea board. Your idea and suggestions were practicle, easy to modify and made complete sense. Super helpful. Thank you.

    Reply
  89. Linda

    Several years ago one of our church member’s toddler died when he swallowed a magnet So I am cautious about magnets / size/ and age of children.

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      Linda,
      That is just awful!!! How very tragic 🙁

      Reply
  90. Sylvia

    Thank you so much for this post
    I was getting ready to put magnetic spray paint on a door to hang family photos on. This saved me a lot of unnecessary expense and work. I have a piece of galvanized tin already. It’s wavy but I’m thinking that will add to the look!

    Reply
  91. Vincent

    I’ve used magnetic paint from Titan Magnetics in Singapore, tested the strength of different nos of coating. painted 1 coat – weak magnetic attraction, can attach D10x1mm but thats about it.
    painted 2 coats – weak magnetic attraction but can attach D10x1mm, D15x1.5mm disc neodymium magnets better
    painted 3 coats – acceptable, usable magnetic attraction, 10x1mm and D15x1.5 can hold 2pcs of A4 papers. Flexible magnets can be attached, as well as pin magnets. Magnetic Inkjet Papers also stick very well
    painted 5 coats – good magnetic attraction, 10x1mm and D15x1.5 can hold 2pcs of A4 papers, Flexible rubber magnets also holds well with A4 papers. Pin magnets can hold papers.
    painted 7 coats – (used up all 250ml portion of magnetic paint just to see the results) good usable magnetic attraction, most neodymium magnets can be attached and holds A4 papers. Flexible magnet stick to small calculator can be attached to the wall now! Pin magnets can even hang some keys 🙂

    The magnetic paint that was used:
    http://titan-magnetics.com/product/magnetic-paint-1-litre/

    but like Kristie said, magnetic paint strength cannot be compared to a sheet of metal. It is useful in different ways, eg round pillars, curved surfaces or totally invisible magnetic surfaces.

    Reply
  92. Amanda P

    I’m not the kind of person that judges people however after reading most of these comments it’s just obvious. Mothers nowadays have become obnoxiously self-assertive and arrogant. Being a mother is the most important job in the world and it does not come with a handbook. It’s is you’re right to raise your children how you want to give them whatever toy you want. It’s however is not your right to constantly go around telling other mothers that they are wrong because they’re not doing it your way. Everybody has their own way of doing things and trying to force your way down their throats is just wrong. That thinking is the kind of thinking that starts world wars because people solely are different from you. Come on Mom’s we’re supposed to be having each other’s backs and lifting each other up. Hopefully my comment does not offend anybody cuz that’s not what it was intended for, it is just to hopefully make people think twice before they put people down and the way they do things

    Reply
  93. Cindy

    I just talked to the paint department and was told that Magnetic paint works if you
    only use one coat. When you add more coats you are actually demagnetizing the paint. Add only one coat of base paint over the magnetic paint.
    Since the paint store has been telling people to use only one coat they have had no customer complaints.
    I have not tried it yet.

    Reply
    • Kristie Barnett

      I’ve never heard that – let us know if it works for you!

      Reply
  94. alex

    Thanks! You just saved me a couple hundred bucks on a custom painted magnetic board on etsy or time (limited as I have an infant!), frustration and project $ given I was think of making my own. I’m writing this 8 years into the future (lol) but from I’m reading/seeing in DIY articles and videos the magnetic power still isn’t that good. I’m wanting this to cover/seal a fireplace near my 9 month old daughter’s playspace and yes – the teeny magnets the paint can handle just won’t fly. Great idea – thank you!

    Reply
  95. Danelle Johnson

    where can I get the galvanized big piece shown here?

    Reply
  96. Jeremy

    Great article – and certainly nothing beats a metal panel for magnets. However, paints, panels and wallcoverings now also can do the same thing. As co-founder of MagScapes we are big fans of all things magnetic – and have developed a number of wallcovering products that enable the use of magnets on wallcoverings that have finishes for chalks, dry-erase pens, projectors, paints and print. Feel free to check them out if the metal panel idea is too cumbersome.

    Reply
  97. Amy, Sorensen Sorensen

    I have question. I need a magnetic sheet, painted purple. I was not thinking of writing on it but now I am. I was just going to use it to put pics and notes up with a magnet. In my mind reading all the instructions what do you attach it to the wall with? pre-drilled holes? It’s for my boyfriend. We run Spartans and I leave him love notes and his fridge is full. I want to make a magnetic wall that he can hang pics or notes or whatever. But it has to be purple, for the Spartan Ultra.

    Reply
  98. Irma Smeding

    Thank you Kristie, I was just about to buy magnetic paint to cover a very ugly part of my wall and to make it usefull. Now I can invision it as a modern, industrial looking steel part of the wall; I can’t wait to get started. Greetings from the Netherlands, Irma

    Reply
  99. Puva

    Hi,regarding the magnetic paint post,may I know which brand paint did the person use?

    Reply
  100. M F

    The library in the town over managed to make a magnetic wall area but the lady said it took A LOT of magnetic paint unfortunately. I wonder if brand or technique makes a difference?

    Reply
  101. Jana B

    Hi, do you think I can use the white board sheet to put on the galvanized steel to create magnetic white board?

    Reply
  102. Sonam Tejpal

    So if I bought magnetic galvanized steel sheet and painted it with chalkboard paint, it would do the job?

    Reply
  103. Alicia

    chalk dust in lungs: 1381563012Effects_of_Chalk_dust_on_Peak_Expiratory_Flow_Rate_in_School_Teachers.pdf
    Conclusion: Teachers using chalk and board are at an increased risk of developing occupationally related pulmonary function impairments and hence there is a need to shift from routine chalk and board to marker and whiteboard. As with everything, I suggest you do your own homework.

    Reply
  104. Karen

    Is the sheet metal sharp on the edges?

    Reply
  105. Marcia Eckert

    I made a magnetic drawing board for my art. I used three coats of magnetized paint and finished it with Clear Coat.lightly sanding between coats. I use rare earth magnets. One magnet will hold a stack of bond paper (mixed 20 and 24 pound) stacked 12 to 15 sheets deep. It holds my watercolor papers without any problem.

    Reply
  106. angie

    I just wanted to say after reading many of your comments and agreeing that you all have valid points to share..
    I overcame many years of aggrevation over marked up walls, ruined outfits, stained carpets and dried up markers..
    I simply loaded my 6 children and many of their friends went fishing, swimming,made sandcastles,drew on sidewalks with chalk,made stepping stones with concrete,,camped in tents no t.v. hunted mushrooms,hiked, list goes on and on for outdoor activities for any age group and mother nature never complained as long as we left it clean and we always did..in fact my one and only rule was that we cleaned our home, picked up ,put away, dusted ect before we left to explore or create. .so returning home was Emily as pleasent.

    Reply
  107. Emily

    I painted a wall in my daughters bedroom with chalkboard paint when she was young and it worked great for her to play school and draw pictures. I don’t know if the quality has changed in the last 20 years but it worked great then.

    Reply
  108. Deborah Fitzgerald

    Could you paint the steel and it would work?

    Reply

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