Reading all your posts makes it sound so easy to use chalkboard paint. I've been trying since last summer to paint 24"x24" chalkboards to frame as gifts. The finish turns out terrible! I've gone through about 6 quarts of paint and numberous rollers and brushes. I start with a nice clean smooth piece of masonite. First I paint it with primer, then sand it so it is again nice and smooth. Then the trouble begins. I've used all different kinds of rollers and brushes from the most expensive I could find to the cheapest. And yes, I've tried foam rollers and sponge brushes. I've even tried different brands of paint. The problem with the rollers is they leave a very textured finish. The problem with brushes is they leave loads of lines. I finally asked my brother to paint a board and the results were the same. Everyone tells me you should have a nice finish with no texture or lines. I can't believe I am the only person who has this probem. I have spoken to people at paint stores and have even called the manufacturers of the paint. They just keep telling me it should work. Months ago I posted on another forum to ask for help, but they just said use a foam roller. Someone did suggest that I try the spray, but that is definitely out. I don't have a place or the equipment for that so, that is not an option. I am very discouraged, but I'm determined not to give up. But, trying the same thing over and over just doesn't work. I would be so thrilled if anyone has any ideas at all that may help!! Thanks for taking the time to read my post.

What great ideas! The centerpieces look fabulous and the chalkboard paint on the pots is great for the children. No reason not to have a pumpkin wedding cake? Lots of wedding cakes nowdays use carrot cake. A pumpkin cake is about the same. If you Google *Halloween Wedding Cake* you can see photos of some very creative wedding cakes designed for the season. Some are made with plain batter and some are made with pumpkin cake. Here is a link that might be useful: Halloween Wedding Cakes

SisterSunnie is correct. I was just going to post that hubby painted the panels on our pantry door with liquid chalk board paint over a decade ago and it's holding up perfectly. About five years ago I painted a faux grained bookshelf with satin black paint. I realized it looked just like the chalk board paint so I tested and yes, you can use it the same as chalkboard paint. It doesn't erase as easily as the real chalk paint, but a damp cloth worked great on it.

I wish they made standard paint as easy to use as chalk board. Love how easy it goes on and covers. Have not tried repainting such. My personal take would be to create a panel for the area you are wanting to paint. Also, with hardwood floors, think about using carpet tiles. Leave the backing on so you can remove and clean. Know this isn't a great decor, but saves your floor. I'm a chalk pastel artist and create a lot of dust with a lot of color involved which is a tough call to get out of anything. Not pretty, but always have a paint cloth wherever this is going on rather than take a chance on the wood floor. Regular chalk doesn't have the dye involved. I made a large chalkboard for my daughters fridge, grand kids abound. She hasn't had a big problem with chalk dust, but does use a damp cloth to clean rather than a board eraser. I also added some unused scrabble tile holders across the bottom. It catches the dust and is a place for chalk to hang out. You could consider a trim for doing the same. Another option would be making the kids wear old socks while playing there. Just be sure to take them off before ending the joy. The socks would grab most of the dust. Now I have the vision of the baby ad with a dust mop as jammies crawling all over the floor to dust it.