DIY Chalkboard Key Hangers

Every time I perform in a play, I like to give handmade cast gifts that relate to the show. Right now, I am in a child-like spelling show, so I brainstormed ideas that centered around letters and education. Also, I like my gifts to be functional. Wah Lah! DIY Chalkboard Key Hangers!

Supplies:

• Unfinished wood frame (I bought mine from Walmart for .97 cents each)
• Black Chalkboard Paint (I used Americana from Hobby Lobby)
• Command Strip Picture hangers (To hang it on the wall without causing damage to paint. You can use a regular toothed picture hanger if you would rather.)
• Command Hooks
• Black Acrylic Paint
• Clear Nail Polish or Clear Spray Paint
• 4" x 6" Design of your choice
• I used 4" x 6" chip board to go behind the design to give it some support. This is optional.

I made 11 total. First start with a layer of chalkboard paint. Paint vertically or horizontally. Let dry for one hour, then apply a second coat in the other direction.

Wait time specified on Chalkboard paint for drying, then apply your key hook. I used white Command Hooks to save time. This crafty girl likes to work fast! Paint the hooks black to match the chalkboard paint with acrylic paint.

Seal with Clear Nail Polish or Clear Spray Paint to prevent chipping of the black paint on the plastic surface.

 I went to the computer and designed each person's first initial onto a neat vintage background, then inserted theater masks on the top and bottom. This is the fun part! Get creative and customize for the recipient or yourself! 

You can also design a last initial and use a hook on each bottom corner.

Cut to 4" x 6" to fit the frame.

Optional: Glue onto 4" x 6" Chipboard for durability.

After Command Strips are dry, apply them by cutting the rounded surface off the bottom of the adhesive strip.

Place Command Picture Hanging Strips to the back on the top. Follow instructions on back panel.

Cure Chalkboard surface by coloring in the paint with chalk, then rub off with a wet towel.

All done! All 11 only took me a couple hours to complete. These would make wonderful Christmas presents, His and Hers for newlyweds, birthday gifts, co-worker presents.... the list can keep on going. The chalkboard is great to leave reminders for yourself or for anyone in your family.

And of course I had to make one for myself. 

Happy Thanksgiving!