The Best DIY Outdoor Chalkboard for Endless Learning

Our outdoor chalkboard has been an invaluable addition to our space and for our children, offering year-round opportunities for educational play. Here's a breakdown of how we crafted our durable and weather-resistant outdoor chalkboard, following the instructions from Hey There Home's detailed guide.

Adjusting to the New Normal

Since COVID-19, we have temporarily halted chalkboard production, prioritizing everyone's safety. That being said, we are also unsure if we will ever restart production. For this reason, I felt it was best to show you all how we made our outdoor chalkboard. We have had ours for 3 years, it has been the perfect addition for our outdoor learning space, and is still in perfect condition! Raising a family in Canada means being able to adapt to the various weather changes. Thankfully this chalkboard has provided our boys with endless learning through play opportunities during all four seasons! With these unprecedented times, adding one of these to your outdoor space is perfect and will be enjoyed for years to come!

Credit and Inspiration

Three years ago when I was researching the best way to make an outdoor chalkboard, I came across a post on Pinterest. We used Hey There Home's blog post that is very detailed and step-by-step as a guide for our own space. Here are the steps/Cole's notes from ours:

STEP ONE:

Purchase HardieBacker Cement Board. They only come in certain sizes so it all depends on what size you want. I suggest measuring the distance between two fence posts as you will be using these to mount the chalkboard. We used two 32" x 60" boards for an extra long space. The cement board is so important as it does not absorb any moisture and for this reason, if you live in a country with various weather conditions, it will ensure that your chalkboard will last.

STEP TWO:

Purchase 2.5" wide x 3/4" thick MDF wood for the frame. You will need to build a frame for the backing first (including a piece going across the joining part of the two boards to hold them together). You will need to use "No More Nails" glue as well as screws to secure them in place. (Be sure that your screws are the right length and do not go through the other side). Once that is complete, you flip the board over and create a frame for the front part of the board. (This step is only if you wish to have a framed chalkboard).

STEP THREE:

Paint the front frame using any colour outdoor paint you like. Our outdoor patio set has an aqua/teal rug as well as cushions so I wanted the frame to match.

STEP FOUR:

Before attaching the front frame, you need to paint the cement board using chalkboard paint. Apply two coats of chalkboard paint using a foam roller that provides a smooth finish. Be sure to let it dry in between coats.

STEP FIVE:

Once all paint coats are dry, attach the front frame using "No More Nails" glue and screws (the same way you attached the back frame).

STEP SIX:

Drill the four corners of your chalkboard into the fence posts.

FINAL STEP:

You can add hooks and buckets to the bottom corners to hold chalk. I suggest drilling holes at the bottom of the bucket so if it is left outdoors, water can drain in case it rains.

Huge Gratitude

Thank you to Corey from Hey There Home for providing such detailed instructions. I researched for hours upon hours for the best way possible to create an outdoor chalkboard. I wanted to ensure that it would last and I am happy to say that this way definitely does! The boys and their cousins/friends have made many memories in our outdoor play space and we are looking forward to the many more that will continue to be made.

Next, I will be sharing both our indoor and outdoor plexiglass paint stations. These were my own DIY version and I cannot wait to share the details with all of you!

In the meantime, continue to stay safe and healthy!!!

With love,

Vanessa

xo

Also, full disclosure that I receive a small commission from any purchases made through my Amazon Storefront. I have put many hours into setting it up and truly hope that you find it helpful! None of the links are sponsored. All opinions and product suggestions are 100% authentically mine... just doing and sharing what I love with love.