How To Make A Magnetic Wall

A magnetic wall is a great way to add organization or creativity to any room. Whether you want to display photos or create a magnetic chalkboard, you can make your own magnetic wall with the help of magnetic primer.

What Is Magnetic Primer?

Magnetic primer is a coating that can be applied under certain kinds of paint to make a surface magnetic. It is black because it contains iron powder. This is what provides its magnetic attraction.

To achieve a dark magnetic surface, simply use magnetic primer alone. You can also use Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer under any color of latex wall paint. This will let you create a magnetic surface that's the color you want.

Another option is to cover your magnetic primer with chalkboard paint. This creates a surface that you can write on and wipe clean. Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer can be used on indoor wood, drywall and plaster, as well as metal and masonry surfaces.

How Do You Make a Magnetic Wall?

Before beginning your magnetic wall paint job, it’s important to complete any necessary prep work. Remove any loose paint or rust with a wire brush or sandpaper. Then, lightly sand any glossy surfaces to help ensure the primer adheres. Clean up any debris with soap and water. 

Once your wall is clean and dry, apply painter’s tape around the area you will paint. If you plan to make an entire magnetic wall, tape off the baseboards and ceiling. To make part of a wall magnetic, use painter’s tape to create a border in the shape or design you want. Magnetic walls can be used for photo displays, children’s playrooms, DIY travel maps and much more.

When your preparations are complete, you’re ready to apply magnetic primer to your wall. It’s a good idea to wear gloves to prevent skin contact with the primer. Before applying the primer to the wall, make sure to stir it very thoroughly to evenly distribute the magnetic properties. Regularly stir the primer while applying it to help ensure it remains well-mixed until you finish priming.

Be sure to follow the tips on your magnetic primer’s label for best results. For example, when using Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer, it’s important to create the smoothest possible surface. You can do this by applying the primer with a foam roller in an up-and-down motion. 

Repeat this process three times, letting each coat of primer dry for 30 minutes before applying the next. Again, keep the can mixed to ensure the pigments remain dispersed. 

After you’ve applied the final coat of magnetic primer, let it dry for several hours. Then, use a paint brush or lint-free roller to cover it with latex paint. Too many coats of latex paint can reduce magnetic attraction, so it’s best to apply no more than two coats over the magnetic primer. Let the final coat of paint dry for 48 hours before attaching magnets to the wall.

How Do You Make a Magnetic Chalkboard?

You can make a magnetic chalkboard to hang on a wall, or you can paint one directly onto a cabinet or wall. You can use the surface to display photos, art, or notes with magnets. You can also write on it and erase it.

A DIY magnetic chalkboard begins with the application of magnetic primer. To begin, follow the same steps you’d take to make a magnetic wall. This includes ensuring the surface is clean and dry, wearing gloves and using painter’s tape to protect surrounding areas that you don’t want to paint.

Remember to stir the primer often while using it to keep the magnetic properties remain evenly dispersed. Use a foam roller to apply magnetic primer, working in an up-and-down motion. Wait 30 minutes for the first coat to dry before applying a second coat. After the second coat has dried for 30 minutes, apply a final coat of magnetic primer and let it dry for several hours.

Once the final coat of primer is dry, it’s time to add chalkboard paint. Rust-Oleum Chalkboard Paint is available as a spray paint and a brush-on paint.

Always follow the instructions on the label for the best results, including how to stir or shake the product. If you choose to roll on the chalkboard paint, a foam roller will typically deliver the smoothest finish. You can apply a second coat if needed.

Let the chalkboard paint dry for three days before using your chalkboard. Before writing or drawing on the new finish, it’s important to condition the surface for use. You can do this by rubbing the side of a piece of chalk over the entire surface, and then erasing it. After that, you can write on or adorn your magnetic chalkboard with photos, artwork, notes and more. 

Magnetic walls and magnetic chalkboards can easily update any room in your home, and a can of magnetic primer is all it takes to begin. When the job is complete, you can enjoy your new practical yet creative space for years to come.