Beginner’s Guide to DIY Chalk Paint

You’ve probably used solid chalk to write on blackboards and sidewalks, but there’s another way to enjoy the fun: chalk paint!

Chalk paint is exactly what it sounds like—a decorative paint that dries to appear like chalk, but without all the trouble of the ever-shrinking solid version. Arts and crafts activities are perfect ways to engage kids, especially those on the autism spectrum. Plus, chalk paint is really easy to make. 

Here are all the instructions, ideas, and tips you’ll need to create and use DIY chalk paint:

Instructions for DIY Chalk Paint

Making the paint is simple, so your kids can join the fun every step of the way. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Cornstarch (2 cups)
• Water (2 cups)
• Food coloring (whatever colors you’d like)
• Muffin pan (or some other container to divide each paint color)
• Paintbrushes
• Stencils (keep reading for downloadable templates!)

Once you gather all your ingredients and materials, there are just three easy steps:

1. Mix together the water and cornstarch until it’s smooth. 
2. Pour the mixture into the muffin pan, or whatever else you’re using. 
3. Add some food coloring to each swatch, and you’re good to go!

Ideas for Your Chalk Paint

Now that the paint is ready for use, it’s time to get creative. Using chalk paint is fun for kids, and it can be great for adults too. Here are some ideas for using your chalk paint that you and your kids are sure to love:

For Kids

1. Download these sidewalk stencils and use the shapes to create galaxies, animals, and any other street art you can imagine!
2. Play outdoor games like hopscotch and four square by downloading these letters and numbers stencils.
3. Use the letters and numbers stencils to improve math, reading, and writing skills in a fun, artistic way.

H3: For Adults

1. Use the simple leaf, banner, and arrow designs from these chalkboard stencils to make your own wall art.
2. Craft weekly schedules and menus for the family using the letter and number stencils. 
3. Put your favorite quote or song lyric on a chalkboard using the letters and numbers stencils as a decoration for your home.

Some Final Tips

Before you dive into the art projects, it’s important to take some advice from the chalk paint experts. Here are a few general tips that’ll help you paint like a pro:

1. Make sure to keep stirring your paint and finish using all of it on the day you make it. That way, it won’t spoil in storage. 
2. Keep an eye on the consistency. If your paint looks too watery, add some cornstarch. If it’s too thick, go ahead and pour in some water.
3. Normally, messes would be a bother. However, with chalk paint, there’s no need to worry! You’ll be able to wash it out of any clothing or surface with ease.
4. In order to prevent peeling, be sure to paint in light layers. A little goes a long way with chalk paint.

Creating chalk paint is a simple process that leads to a wide range of options for the whole family. Not only is chalk paint a wonderful creative outlet, but it also provides nontraditional learning activities that can be more motivating for kids with autism than the typical classroom. When trying to encourage children on the spectrum to learn, thinking outside the box can make a big difference.

For more information and inspiration for your DIY chalk paint, Apartment Guide offers some great pointers! They’ll tell you everything you need to feel prepared for your art projects. Now go out there and fill your homes and sidewalks with chalk art!