If you want to paint your refrigerator like a chalkboard, you simply go out and buy some chalkboard paint and paint it.
But Wait! It’s actually not that simple. You will have some decisions to make because there is more than one color of paint.
Chalkboard Paint for Refrigerator: Color Options
There’s black paint, of course, but you can also get white dry erase paint and tint-able. So essentially, your color options are limitless. This doesn’t quite make decision-making easy – or maybe for you it does.
It also may open up a whole bunch of new chalkboard ideas now that you know you can expand beyond basic black. For example, you could make your fridge match your cabinet color – or you could paint it a vibrant color that adds a fun, modern appeal to an otherwise dull kitchen.
As Brian Santos says in his book, Painting and Wallpapering Secrets, there is no wrong color to use when painting. The worst that can happen is that you will need to do the job over. If you’re having a hard time making up your mind, you can ask your local paint shop for a color fan deck. This handy tool lets you see colors and color combinations at the exact location where you’ll be painting – very helpful to know in advance of starting your project.
Paint Medium Choices
In addition, you have the option to buy paint in a can that you brush or roll on – or spray paint. Both types cost about the same amount of money for the equivalent in paint, so it just depends with which medium you prefer to work.
Many people prefer using foam rollers to get maximum coverage with no brush marks and no overspray. However, there is no right or wrong method – it’s completely up to you.
Note: I personally use a roller. My first experience, however, was not so great because I was painting in a very cold garage. Chalkboard paint can be thick, and the cold temperature did not help the application process
You may have leftover paint, depending on the size of your appliance. Well, there’s no reason why you can’t take on another chalkboard project with the leftovers – like a closet door or a tabletop for kids. Both of these are super easy and quick to finish.
Magnetic Chalkboard Paint
Yes, you can paint your fridge to be magnetic. However, this feature is not in the paint itself. You will need to purchase a primer and apply that before the paint.
This can increase the cost of your fridge-painting project, since the primer can cost more than the actual paint – but that said, it’s usually less than $20.
How to Paint on Plastic
Something else to think about is plastic vent covers or other accessories on your refrigerator that you want to look fresh and new. Whether you use a matching paint or a contrasting color, your appliance can have a polished and professional look.
If you use regular chalkboard paint, it is likely to chip off. It’s better to go with an epoxy paint specifically for painting plastic, like Fusion for Plastic by Krylon. It adheres better and is much less likely to chip and scratch.
