Chalkboard tables are super easy and inexpensive to make. Virtually any table can be converted to a chalkboard with chalkboard paint – or you can build a table from scratch.
My chalkboard table does double-duty as a coffee table and a to-do list. I work from home, so this is a great way to organize my projects and keep me focused. I can also doodle if I feel like it.
Chalkboard tables are also great for kids and families. You can write messages on them, play games or bring out your inner artist. They can be used as coffee tables, sawhorse tables or desks, craft areas or even your kitchen dining table.
How to Make a Sawhorse Chalkboard Desk
As far as large tables go, a sawhorse table is about the easiest and most versatile table you can make. The reason is that you can take it apart and move it around easily (with a hollow core door).
All you need is a door and a pair of sawhorses. Alternatively, you can make your own sawhorses with a set of sawhorse brackets and 2×4’s. Making your own sawhorses of course takes more time and effort, but there is an added benefit….
You can change out your sawhorse legs to make your table different heights. For example, standard table height, standing desk/bar table height and coffee table height. You only need one door, but you can switch out the legs when you need tables for different purposes without having to make an entirely new table.
And if that wasn’t enough, you can add a couple of 2×4’s underneath one length of the door to create a tilt in the desk surface.
Buy or Make Sawhorse Table Legs
There are several options when it comes to sawhorses. You can go with metal, wood or heavy duty plastic. Most are designed to carry a heavy load, so your choice really comes down to how much you want to spend and the look you want to create with your table.
My special, super-secret technique for sawhorse legs:
I make my sawhorse legs with 2×4’s and brackets. I cut the 2×4’s to size, do a light sanding and seal with either a clear varnish or stain. Not much to it.
The height measurements I use:
– For a standing desk I cut 2×4’s to 36″, which gives me a table height of about 40″
– For a standard table I cut 2×4’s to 26″, which gives me a table height of about 30″
 Stanley 060864R Folding Sawhorse (2-Pack)  |
 Fulton D300 Sawhorse Bracket  |
 Stanley 60622 Folding Adjustable Sawhorse (2-Pack)  |
Chalkboard Painting Tips
I made the mistake of painting my homemade chalkboard table when it was cold. I then proceeded to paint with a roller instead of a brush. The result was thick, clumpy paint and a very textured door. Not ideal for drawing on.
The solution was fixable, but time consuming. I had to sand down the entire door and re-paint with a brush. My chalkboard table is still not entirely smooth, but it works.
By the way, I painted the reverse side of my door table and the door edges with regular black spray paint. I used gloss because that’s what I had, but I think flat paint would work just fine.
My suggestions are to:
– Not paint on a cold day
– Paint with a brush
– Make sure your painting surface is clean and smooth.
– Chalkboard Art – How to Do It
…Or Buy a Chalkboard Table
OK. I get it. You want a chalkboard table, but you don’t want to make it yourself. I’m fine with that. It takes time, and your first try may not look as good as the one you can buy at the store. Here is a cool one that you can buy – and it doesn’t cost a lot of money either. =)
