I call this a Faux Mantel Shelf Chalkboard, because it reminds me of a mantel with it's large shelf.
Seriously, I couldn't be more pleased with how it turned out. I rarely know how something is going to come together, since I make it up as I go along.
Large Wooden Frame with Trim
I got this over sized frame sort of thing early in the year at a deep discount.
So, I wanted to add hooks on the bottom of the faux mantel, but the area below the frame wasn’t roomy enough for that.
I added a shelf, but raised it up a couple of inches from the lower trim in order to allow room for hooks. These brackets were a recent find—they were too large so I cut them down on my miter saw. I used Gorilla Wood Glue and my nail gun to attach the brackets.
Attaching the Faux Mantel Shelf
This is the top of the shelf, you can see where I shot the nails through.
This is after some primer. You can see there is a blank space there under the shelf. But we'll fix it soon.
I hung the huge faux mantel shelf on the fence to get a good picture. This is after I’ve worked out the paint color. It is a gray, with some white washed over it. Since this project was done, I now use a smoked glaze technique. Check out my post How to Glaze Painted Furniture.
Choosing Hooks for Mantel Shelf
I was trying to figure out which hooks I wanted to use. You can see I beefed up the space between the bottom and the shelf with some luan and plywood. I didn’t take any pictures.
While working with this over sized faux mantel shelf, the shelf and brackets were coming loose. I secured the shelf with a screw through the back.
You can see that this piece is huge. Those fence boards are 5.5 wide. Would you believe it is 48 inches wide?
Faux Mantel Chalkboard
I am really loving the functionality of this piece. I can see it in a kitchen, mudroom, laundry room, or a game room. The chalkboard is a piece of luan with chalkboard paint.
Do you Love the Trim?
Love the color AND the detail of the molding.
I was having a difficult time trying to stage this monster!
Keeping it real here folks. These images were done with Picmonkey. My handwriting is bad, and it’s so much easier to write on the chalkboard pictures with a photo editing software. 
This bad boy will be going to Glendale with me in October.
Where would you hang it?
gail
See other great chalkboard ideas here
Pat
That turned out so great! I love it.
I knew you'd make something wonderful out of this frame.
The hooks make it a great piece for an entrance, mud room, or OUT THE DOOR STAGING AREA for a family with kiddos.
You chose a good paint color too.
It blends really well with your fence,Gail! 😉
Patricia
Pat
P.S.
just wanted to say, I love PicMonkey...for the very same reason!
Patricia
Mimi
Great piece! I love the finish you did on it. Confession: I have used picmonkey for my chalkboard photos as well. My handwritting is not the best either 😉
Doris Henson
Another great piece Gail....If I had this piece (if I lived close to you it would be mine too) I would hang it by the front door of my home....then I could scribble messages to my hubby, then MAYBE he wouldn't forget things as he goes out the door. LOVE this piece!
Toqua's Crafts
Well, now, Gail. I've never had trouble with your handwriting! I have no doubts this will sell for you in Glendale! Yet again, another good job!!
How's your shoulder? Mine hurts like crazy! LOL Back in May hubs and I cleaned out the garage so I could park my car in there. (Those blankety blank blank rats wouldn't leave it alone when it was outside!) First my elbow had some major tendonitis, but it has since moved up to my shoulder. (Isn't gravity supposed to make things move down??) For your sake, I hope the pain has moved to me instead of you. 🙂
Rhonda Kueck
I think you could use it in a kitchen or mudroom. I love it! You are amazing!
Sylvia
Great job. Perfect for any decor. It seems this would appeal to a lot of buyers.
Korrie@RedHenHome
This is super cute, Gail!
Candace @ Vintage News Junkie
Love this, Gail! The paint finish is so sweet... subtle and will work with ANYONE's décor!! You go, girl! 🙂
NOREEN MAGUIRE TERLECKI
again, another great job
nova
looks wonderful!!! Glendale days Crossing Festival is getting closer! It is on Saturday, October 19, 2013; can't wait!
Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co.
Awesome! I love great big chalkboards!
Holly
I remember that piece! It turned out great. I like to give a large piece like that several functions, I think they sell better. Love the color on this one.
cassie
great thinking to add the shelf and hooks! it's the perfect family command center now!