Go Back
–+ servings
Two Cigar Box Chalkboards, books, and a candle on a wood table.

Cigar Box Chalkboard

Learn how to make the chalkboard from a cigar box ... so fun and easy!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 1 chalkboard
Author: Ginnie

Equipment

  • 1 cigar box
  • utility knife
  • sandpaper
  • painters tape
  • chalkboard paint
  • foam paint brush
  • craft glue
  • chalk

Instructions

  • Using a utility knife, cut through the inside layer of the paper connecting the lid to the box. Then, pull the lid off, carefully separating the patterned paper on the outside from the lid. (Skip to Step 4, if you're painting the outside of the box.)
    A hand using a utility knife to remove the box cover.
  • Carefully remove the strip of paper that was holding the lid to the box, and set it aside for later.
    A photo collage showing the decorative paper attaching the lid to the box.
  • Next, remove any paper or adhesive from the inside of your cigar box. If anything sticks to the box, use the sand paper to remove it all of the way.
    A photo collage showing how to sand the box edges.
  • Cover the decorative paper on the insides of the box with painters tape. If you're painting the outside of the box, you will apply the painters tape to around the bottom edges of the box instead.
    The box with painters tape on one edge and a roll in the box.
  • Paint the box using the foam paint brush and chalkboard paint. (You will need multiple thin coats; I used 4 coats total.)
    A foam brush painting the inside of the box with chalkboard paint.
  • Carefully remove the painters tape (before the paint dries). Then, let the paint dry completely.
    A hand removing painters tape from the edge of the box.
  • Apply a little craft glue to the strip of paper you save in Step 2 (spread a thin layer over the paper with your finger), then use it to cover the plain edge of the box. Hold the strip in place until it adheres to the box. (If you painted the bottom of the box, skip this step.)
    A photo collage showing how to attach the decorative paper to the box.
  • Decorate the box with chalk, as desired.
    Two of the homemade chalkboards, one on a stack of books.
Tried this recipe?Mention @HelloLittleHome or tag #hellolittlehome!