How To Prime Your Chalkboard

Ever experienced “ghosting” on your chalkboard? Ghosting is when a faint outline, or "ghost," of your previous artwork remains even after erasing the ink. Yikes! The best way to combat ghosting is to prevent it from happening in the first place. In order to prevent ghosting, you need to make sure to prime your chalkboard correctly. Read on for the best tips and tricks! 

Why should I prime my chalkboard?

Priming a chalkboard fills any pores (tiny holes or depressions) in your chalkboard with chalk. It gives you a smooth, easy-to-write-on and easy-to-erase chalkboard surface. The process eliminates or minimizes “ghosting” by preventing ink residue from sneaking into the pores, only to resurface and "haunt" you later.

What type of chalk can I use to prime the board?

You can use either regular chalk or liquid chalk, but traditional chalk is easier to use.

How to prime my chalkboard using traditional chalk (recommended)

1. Use the side of a piece of chalk (not the tip) to rub the entire surface of the chalkboard. Rub the surface twice without erasing—once using horizontal strokes, then again using vertical strokes.
2. Let the board sit for a few minutes.
3. Use a dry paper towel, cloth, soft rag, chalkboard brush, or sweeper cloth to blow or wipe away any excess chalk. The result is a smooth layer of chalk dust that fills any pores on your chalkboard surface.

How to prime my chalkboard using a liquid chalk marker

1. Write on the surface using the liquid chalk. You do not need to cover the entire chalkboard, but space out your writing across a large portion of it.
2. Let the board sit for 30 seconds, so the ink partially (but not completely) dries.
3. Wipe the board surface clean using a damp cloth. The ink should spread out on your chalkboard to fill pores.