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Blackboard paint on tables and walls, plus vintage anatomy charts

  Since it's back to school time, chalkboard paint seemed like a good thing to use to spruce things up at the shop this week.  I used blackboard paint on top of this vintage wood table/desk. It was an easy application. I buy the Rust-o-leum brand. Before actually writing on it with chalk,  the paint needs to settle for 3 or more days, then be "conditioned".  To do this, use the side of a white piece of chalk to completely cover the surface with chalk, let sit for awhile, then wipe off with a dry cloth or blackboard eraser.  Repeat the next day, completely covering with chalk and erasing. Then it will finally be ready to write on with chalk.  After that you can use a damp cloth to wipe it off occassionally. If you don't condition the painted surface, it will keep the "memory" of every mark you put on it. I also picked up a green can of chalkboard paint and put it on a display wall.  When it's ready to be "chalked up" the color will be toned down a bit.  I think I'll like it better with the white added.  We already had several big display panels conditioned with blackboard paint.  My blackboard handwriting can't compare to my grade school teachers, but using chalk is fun.  While it can be a bit messy with chalk dust, I love the idea of having permission to draw or write on walls and furniture.  What kid wouldn't love a craft table with a chalkboard top?  Here's what we hung from the "chalkboards" in the back of the shop: These are GIGANTIC early 1900's school anatomy teaching aids.  This skeleton guy is definately taller than I am!  Here's his BIG FOOT: You probably recognize these Max Brodel illustrations, as they are the standards that have been used in biology and medical textbooks for years.  We have six from the set, but only had room to hang two of them.  I love the detail of these American Froshe Anatomical Charts - this set was produced by the A. J. Nystrom Company specifically for use in classrooms.  They came from an auction at a high school that was being torn down.  I bought them from a woman who went to that auction - wish I had been there! Regards, Mary