You can create chalkboard art too!
Recently I have begun to dabble in chalkboard art as well as whiteboard art for different event and business signs. It's been a lot of fun to do. I've met new people and have had a chance to go to some different events.
I've heard a lot of people say that they wouldn't even be able to draw a stick man. But I'm here to tell you with a little planning and some practice you can be making your own beautiful signs in no time.
A great way to start, especially if you don't know what to draw is to look up images on the Internet or Pinterest. This is a good way to also generate ideas if you weren't sure on what you wanted to do in the first place. Be cautious though, you can get sucked into the Pinterest vortex and easily become overwhelmed because you love it all!
Once you have your idea, it's good to plan it out on paper. Try out the different lettering and shapes. See which ones you find easy to do and which you find hard. The more you practice on paper the easier it will get. Like the saying goes, if you don't use it you lose it, and the same goes for artists.
TIP: If you are having a tough time and have access to a projector and a laptop. Project what you would like to write onto the wall and trace around the outside of the letters.
Tips and Tricks
Season your chalkboard: If you are using a brand new chalkboard make sure to season it. This will ensure that if you need to go and erase small areas that you won't see what you've erased. To do this take a pice of chalk and rub it length wise over the entire board. Then erase it. You have now seasoned your board. By doing this to the entire board you ensure that it will all look the same.
Chalk: Since I have started completing chalk drawings I have been using chalk markers which can be purchased at your local arts and craft store. These markers are great because they come in many different sizes making it easy to have varied lines. They come in a variety of colours and are easy to use and create steady, full lines. If you only have regular chalk make sure that you wet it before using it. It will look faded when first applied but as it dries it will brighten up.
Preliminary Sketch: Always make sure to draw out your idea on paper first. This is to help you plan out how your board will look, where things will go and that everything will fit. It also eliminates you having to restart.
Make a boarder: Adding a fun boarder is an easy way to add to your overall chalkboard design. If you are looking to make straight lines I highly encourage using a ruler or a meter stick.
Mix up fonts and styles: When creating your boards make sure to mix up your fonts and styles. This will help grab the attention of your audience and place emphasis on important parts of your message. If you're stuck for ideas, head back to Pinterest. Also if you like a font and it's not written in the word you are looking for, use the internet and type in ABC hand lettering (name of the font), this will bring up the ABC's for you can find the letter you are looking for.
Centring words: if you are wondering how to centre words it's easier than it seems. The first step is to count the number of letters in the word. Start from the middle and work your way outside. Another thing to keep in mind if the types of letters; are they lower case or upper case? This will change how you plan your letters. If you are really struggling and do have access to a projector, this would be a great time to use it. This is one of the hardest parts about chalk art. So take your time and it's OK if it's not perfect. The imperfections really add to the charm of the chalkboard art.
Transferring Drawings onto Chalkboards: Cover the back of your drawing in chalk. Place the chalk covered side onto the chalk board where you would like it. Trace your image with a pencil. Make sure you press hard enough so that you transfer the chalk that was on the back of the paper. Remove the paper and you will have an outline of your image. Go over the lines to make them more pronounced.
Erasing your chalk: Two items you can you to erase your drawings or mistakes are rags or Q-tips. If you are using either make sure to dip them in water before using. Q-Tips are great for small mistakes and tricky areas, while rags are good for large mistakes or the whole board. Do not use paper towel as some of the fibres will be left on your chalkboard.
Sealing your chalkboard art: If you do not want your art to smudge after completing your artwork. Using hairspray or a sealer from your local arts and craft store will do the trick. Make sure that your are an arms length away from the board when you apply your sealant. For professional sealers please read instructions carefully.
With a little bit of practice and some fun, imaginative ideas you will be able to create your own chalkboard creations. They are great for signs, parties or can even be added as a fun decoration in your home.
