Chalkboard Clipboard for Displaying Photos, Holding Memos, Saving Coupons, Etc.

I was so impressed by all the chalkboard/blackboard projects at the CHA show that I had to try my hand at it.  First I bought an unpainted wooden clipboard from HouseMart Ben Franklin Crafts and painted the front with blackboard paint (also from BFC).  Once it was dry, I stamped the designs with white Versa Magic ink and dusted each image with white embossing powder before heat setting it.  Don't worry about the little specks of embossing powder that remain on the clipboard because they will make the chalkboard effect more realistic.

You can use this clipboard to hold whatever you choose and hang it up using the hardware on the back.

Also with the clipboard was a mysterious wooden peg.  After painting the back with DecoArt Americana Satin acrylic paint, I realized that the peg fit in the hole and formed the stand to hold the clipboard upright. Now I think that I will use the clipboard as a recipe stand to hold up recipes while I cook.  Excellent!  I decided to adhere the stamped blackboard image to the back of the clipboard because I wanted to have a place to insert a gift card/message.  (The top of the stamped image was not taped down to form a pocket.)

I painted the edge of the clipboard and wooden people pieces (Studio Calico) (purchased at BFC) the same beautiful aqua color and tied on an American Crafts ribbon (from the jumbo pack sold at BFC). TIP: I would recommend painting the lighter colors first just in case a misplaced brush stroke requires clean up; it is much easier to paint dark over light.  I'm sorry that I did not include the paint bottles in the photo below but I'm too tired to retake the photo. This was such a satisfying project that I am looking for other wooden pieces to turn into chalkboard surfaces.  Crafty fun ahead!

I just got some Marvy Uchida chalkboard markers and tried them out on the clipboard.  I think they look fabulous and the colors wipe off with a damp cloth.  With these markers and the chalkboard paint you could even just do a plain chalkboard clipboard for a party favor.  Kids and adults will love these!