In the middle of our bustling chaos that comes with four kids, two parents with full-time jobs, and multiple calendars to juggle, we’ve created something that keeps us grounded: our family organizational chalkboard.
This simple yet powerful tool has become the hub of our weekly rhythm, helping us stay connected, focused, and (mostly) on top of things!
Pete built this gem himself—right on the wall. He framed it using doorframe molding, layered it with magnetic paint, and topped it off with chalkboard paint. It’s functional, stylish, and perfectly suited for our family’s needs. Plus, we love the personal touch of something handmade by Pete!
Here’s how it works:
- Bible Memory Verse: Each week, we write a verse we try to hide in our hearts and challenge each other at meal times to recite without looking at the board.
- Prayer Requests: This space reminds us how we can pray for each other, our friends, and anything on our hearts. It’s a powerful way to keep prayer front and center in our daily lives.
- Weekly Schedule: Whether it’s appointments, activities, or reminders, our schedule section keeps everyone on the same page.
- Weekly Menu: No more last-minute meal debates! No more throwing in the towel to eat out because we can’t think of what to make. I jot down our weekly menu so everyone knows what’s coming to the table (and who’s likely cooking!).
- Chore Delegation: With four kids, this section is a lifesaver. Each child knows their responsibilities, which cuts down on confusion and encourages teamwork.
What I love most about this chalkboard is how simple it is to use. Each Sunday, I take less than 5 minutes to update it, and suddenly our week feels manageable. It’s magnetic too– I can stick prayer requests on and off easily. (Read more about what we do with our prayer requests each week)
This chalkboard isn’t just about staying organized—it’s about fostering a reoccurring rhythm to create peace in our family life. It’s a place where we align our hearts, plan our days, and keep each other accountable for plans as a family. The weeks that we aren’t home to update this- it shows immensely, and everyone is a bit off (especially Mama!).
Do you have a family organization system? Or maybe you’ve been dreaming of creating something like this? I’ve included details and links on how Pete built it!
Items needed: Door frame molding, magnetic paint, chalkboard paint, caulk, white high gloss trim paint.
Recommended tools: paint brush, miter saw, caulking gun, nail gun (or hammer and nails)
Exact dimensions of our board:
Steps:
- Measure out and use painters tape to section off the portion of the wall you want to use. (I recommend painting a 1/2 inch larger than you want your actual borders to be. It gives you some wiggle room with putting on the molding.)
- Paint 2-3 layers of the magnetic paint within the borders of your tape.
- Follow up with one layer of moderately thick layer of chalkboard paint. (The more layers of chalkboard paint you do- the less likely your magnets will stick well.)
- Measure and cut your door frame molding- making sure to miter the edges!
- Nail in your molding. (Do NOT paint them yet!)
- Use wood filler to patch the nail holes and then caulk the edges both inside and out.
- Tape the wall and chalkboard (once the chalkboard paint is well cured). Then paint the molding the color of your choice. You could also choose to stain the molding depending on the type you bought and the look you wanted.
- Remove the tape carefully once trim is painted AND get creative with making your chalkboard your own.
