Turning a glass surface into a chalkboard is a creative way to increase the functionality as well as the aesthetic of the object or any room.
However, with such a unique texture, glass is not the easiest material to work with. And this is where chalkboard paint comes in. In fact, I use this special paint on windows to create a surface that could be customized depending on different occasions.
But finding the best chalkboard paint for glass can become a rabbit hole that is easy to get lost in. Worry not, dear reader! I’m Stacy Smith, here to give you the best chalkboard paints available on the market and how to pick the best one for you.
If you are looking to add an extra dimension of customization to your glass pieces, then read on! So, let’s get right into it!
Top 5 Chalkboard Paints For Glass Reviews
1. American Crafts 366867
Turning any glass surface into a chalkboard with this easy-to-use paint from American Crafts is a breeze. The versatility it has with compatible surfaces makes it a solid choice for any expertise level; even children can work with this paint!
Product Highlights
Straight from the bottle, this paint is ready to be used and applied. From walls and doors to paper bags for a quick personal touch, there is a wide variety of applications with this paint. But as an optional step, make sure the paint is mixed before application to ensure you have an even coating.
American Crafts recommends using a foam brush or foam roller to apply the paint to minimize the number of air bubbles and have a smooth texture. The paint formula is a non-odorless and non-toxic solution, so it is safe to use even in a closed room.
Both standard chalks, as well as chalk markers, can be used once the painted surface has been dried. This opens up a world of possibilities to express or customize the chalkboard once it is set.
What's There To Like About It?
In particular, I found the non-toxic nature of the paint formula to be an outstanding feature while working with the paint. Fumes and safety precautions can become a tedious aspect to look into, especially if you are just painting in a small area.
Plus, the formula is safe for children to use. That’s why I wasn’t worried about my 12-year old niece using it when she came to my house a few days back.
What's There Not To Like About It?
A slight drawback to this paint is not in the application but rather in the drawing experience once the paint has dried. I found removing the drawings on the treated surface to be quite tricky. It even required a sponge and water to completely remove the chalk in some cases.
Pros and Cons of American Crafts 366867
Pros
Cons
- 16 oz bottle of versatile black chalkboard paint from American Crafts.
- Provides a durable, smooth finish that can be easily written on with chalk
- This black chalkboard paint can be used on walls, doors, paper, wood and so much more. Be sure to test a small area before wider application.
2. Cekkiena B08JH1VLVT
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Cekkiena offers an excellent matte black paint that is able to turn almost any glass surface into a quality chalkboard. What’s more, it can be applied to walls, concrete, wood, and many other surfaces with ease.
Product Highlights
While designing this paint formula, Cekkiena has ensured that ease of use remains a highlight. The brand has used a water-based formula to help the paint permeate and adhere to a range of surfaces with minimal preparation required.
Cekkiena suggests that users need only one coat of the paint to have the perfect chalkboard finish. Whether you are a novice or pro in working with chalkboard paint, there is no learning curve with this product. Simply stir the paint, prepare the surface if needed, then get into painting- it’s that easy.
Furthermore, the water-based formula makes it non-toxic, making it safe to use indoors and near children. Be it at your home or in the office, a few quick strokes are all that are needed to convert any glass surface into a usable chalkboard.
What's There To Like About It?
I loved that one can of this paint was able to cover a large area and the coverage is pretty long-lasting. I could easily cover around ten square feet with one, which saved me a few extra bucks on buying additional cans of paint.
Moreover, I was really impressed to see that the coat dried incredibly quickly, making it even more convenient to use.
What's There Not To Like About It?
If you are planning on using chalk markers on the painted surface, you may find it difficult to erase them afterward. Cekkiena advises any regular chalk can be used once the paint is dry, but it took me quite some effort to remove the chalk markers in particular. There were still traces of the previous drawings even after using water and a sponge.
Pros and Cons of Cekkiena B08JH1VLVT
Pros
Cons
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3. Rainbow Chalk Markers LTD. 22267
Paint any surface like wood, glass, and metal with this easy-to-use blackboard paint from Rainbow Chalk Markers. With a fast drying time and smooth matte finish, this paint is sure to get the job done in a flash.
Product Highlights
Rainbow Chalk Markers has formulated a special paint that not only creates a blackboard surface but also fixes existing marks. By creating a new drawing layer on a pre-existing chalkboard, any residual markings are removed. This means old chalkboards can be made to look brand new.
A highlight feature is the texture of the chalkboard once it has dried, as it gets a matte finish that is non-reflective as well. As a result, you can write or draw on it with regular chalk and chalk markers alike.
Furthermore, the formula has a straightforward application that requires a simple brush or roller. The thick consistency helps minimize the number of air bubbles in the paint. What’s more, the paint has a rapid 15 minute drying time, making it even easier to work with.
What's There To Like About It?
What stood out the most for me was the nature of the formula. Not only is it non-toxic and non-flammable, but it is also safe to wash as. This makes cleanup much easier, as I didn’t have to worry about the cleaning process damaging the paint.
Another nice feature was the option to use both regular chalk and chalk markers on the painted surface. This opened the door for much more creativity and expression on the painted surface.
What's There Not To Like About It?
For those who are planning on covering a large area with chalkboard paint, I would recommend getting a few extra cans. The volume of one paint can is only eight and a half fluid ounces, which won’t cover much. Taking into account the multi-coat application, I was somewhat disappointed with the quantity on offer.
Pros and Cons of Rainbow Chalk Markers LTD. 22267
Pros
Cons
![Chalkboard Blackboard Paint - Brush on Wood, Metal, Glass, Wall, Plaster Boards Sign, Frame or Any Surface. Use with Chalk Pen Wet Erase, Non-Toxic - Matte Finish [Black] - (8.5oz Cover 32 sf)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41uU6Fzh5oL._SL160_.jpg)
- Be limitless, instead of using chalkboard contact paper roll, paint your own furniture, tables, bedroom and living room wall to draw your art decals
- Include it in your decor supplies. Create your own bistro chalkboards, magnetic kitchen menu, mini signs, bulletin, calendar and poster board for kids
- Perfect writing surface for colorful liquid chalk marker pens with its smooth matte non-reflective black finish that you will surely enjoy
4. Chalkola chk_3mm_var
If you are not looking forward to painting the glass surface, then using these liquid chalk markers from Chalkola is a wonderful alternative. It can be used on any non-porous surface and cleaned up easily without any residue.
Product Highlights
Whether you are looking to draw or write on windows, metal or mirrors, there are a wide range of materials that these markers are compatible with. As long as the surface is non-porous, these markers will be able to adhere and can be easily erased. The special ink formula is water based, meaning cleanup is straightforward.
Furthermore, if you would like a more permanent drawing for restaurants or signboards, these markers perform well. As non-porous surfaces facilitate better adhesion, they will maintain the bright hue of the neon shades for optimum visibility.
Each marker is non-toxic and mess-free, making them a great option for children to work with. The markers also feature a reversible felt tip that holds its shape and will not fray even with heavy usage. These are a great alternative to standard chalk, which creates a considerable amount of dust.
What's There To Like About It?
Of course, the highlight of these markers for me was the ease of use they offer, that too without any prep involved. It was as simple as uncapping and drawing right away, with the cleanup being a simple dry or wet erase method.
I highly recommend these markers if you are in a time crunch or need a clean and easy chalkboard surface. The selection of ten different colors is another bonus that allows for more creativity.
What's There Not To Like About It?
One caveat to these chalk markers is the design of the reversible felt tip limits vertical applications to some extent. The ink tends to flow to the bottom of the pen, which made me stop and shake the pen to get the ink back to the tip. Although the markers still function well enough, it is a slight nuisance to repeat the process every few minutes.
Pros and Cons of Chalkola chk_3mm_var
Pros
Cons
- Come off Easy - The chalkboard pen will work on almost any surface! These chalk board markers are washable & will erase off on non-porous surfaces such as glass & mirrors (dry & wet erase) & permanent on porous surfaces (like wood).
- Can Be Used On Many Surfaces - Use these erasable chalk paint markers to write on calendars, wedding signs, shop storefronts, milestone boards, classroom displays, LED boards, vinyl surfaces. Use as car window markers, bistro chalk markers.
- Perfect For Every Creator - Whether you're a teacher, artist, restaurant owner or parent, these dry erase chalk markers for blackboard create beautiful displays effortlessly in classrooms, menus, signs and home activities
5. Chalkola BC33000
Another handy kit from Chalkola, this set includes eight neon chalk pens that have more volume. Furthermore, the versatile tips give you the dexterity you need to complete any design or decor on any non-porous surface.
Product Highlights
Chalkola has designed these markers to hold eight times more ink than other options, giving you more ink for your money. In particular, this eight-piece kit comes with the equivalent of 30 markers. So, no matter the project being worked on, you won’t face an ink shortage any time soon.
Moreover, the tips of the markers are multi-functional, with three options to choose from. There is a wide tip, a bold tip, and a thinner, fine line tip for details. Switching between the different nibs is as simple as rotating the marker, giving you complete control over the ink in a seamless motion.
As for the ink formula that is used, it is a water-based ink, which makes cleanup extremely easy. The vibrant neon colors are sure to draw the eye and can be removed with a simple wet cloth when done.
What's There To Like About It?
I found the three-in-one tip design to be especially useful while drawing with these markers. The amount of customization that is possible with three different tip sizes opens up so many more possibilities.
Another handy feature is how easily the ink sticks to different surfaces. It took me almost no time to complete the small décor jobs on my garage glass windows. Besides, I didn’t need to prime the glass or marker itself, which is incredibly useful for quick customization jobs!
What's There Not To Like About It?
Perhaps, the only complaint I have from this product is with the compatible cleanup methods. It is limited to only having a wet-erase to remove the ink. Although it is by no means a deal-breaker, the option to dry-erase would make it more convenient. A wet-erase also makes the drawings susceptible to coming off if it rains.
Pros and Cons of Chalkola BC33000
Pros
Cons
- More Ink and Value - 8 times more ink (28 gram ink per pen) and 8 marker per set. You actually get the equivalent of 30 markers at price of Eight. Other markers have 4 gram ink
- 3 In One Nib - The Rectangular Tip enables you to use the Markers as 3 Tips; Wide Lines, bold lines & thin fine lines
- For Non-Porous Surfaces only - Porous Surfaces will absorb ink and leave ghosting. Always test a small hidden area of the surface first. Our window paint markers have water based ink and are washable. Just use a wet wipe cloth
Buyers Guide
Before deciding on a paint set or marker kit for your glass, there are a few factors that should be considered. These factors can have an impact on your user experience while working with the paint or drawing on the chalkboard.
And in the following sections, I will list some of them to help you find the best chalkboard paint for glass with ease.
1. Preparation
As a general first step in painting anything, preparing the surface is a crucial step to make sure the paint can adhere well. In the case of a glass material, the surface in question is relatively smooth with little to no texture at all. This makes gripping the surface challenging if the paint has not been designed explicitly with glass in mind.
Pay attention to special instructions from the manufacturer to determine whether the glass needs to be primed or not. Sanding and using steel wool to create texture are some common instructions found on some chalkboard paints.
Apart from that, there are some specially formulated paints that work exclusively on porous or non-porous surfaces. So, make sure you carefully look into the product description.
2. Coverage
The volume of different paint cans changes across manufacturers and is not always a direct correlation to the surface that it can cover. Some paints may require only one coating, while others may need multiple coats.
Gauge the area that you wish to paint first to see which option would have the best performance and efficiency in painting. This can save you the hassle of having to order more paint in the middle of the project.
3. Finish
Just as with other paints, chalkboard paint has several finishes that change the aesthetic quality as well as its performance. Although these paints usually have low-reflection finishes, there are still a few glossy options to choose from.
Furthermore, an enamel finish can make the glass object safe to be used with a dishwasher or microwave. If you require it, there are even paints that are safe to come into contact with food. As a general rule of precaution, always refer to the instructions that come with the paint to ensure it is safe to use.
Whether you prefer an eggshell finish or want a shinier semi-gloss finish, there is a wide variety to choose from. And depending on the type of finish, the chalkboard can be easy or require more pressure while being drawn on. However, all finishes have some kind of texture to them, making them fully functional.
4. Application
Once you have settled on a finish, consider the method of application. From what I’ve seen, most paints require either a brush-on or aerosol method.
Using the brush-on application method is favored as it can be controlled with more precision than an aerosol method, especially while painting large areas. If you are working with lots of detail or surface area, a brush-on chalkboard paint may be the way to go.
On the other hand, aerosol methods are great if you are working with stencils or need an even coating across a surface. However, this method produces fumes and can be difficult to control. As such, I’d suggest going for this type of paint only if you can work outdoors or in an area with proper ventilation.
5. Health And Safety
Chalk as a medium produces quite a lot of dust that can cause health problems in individuals with respiratory issues. A great alternative to drawing with chalk is using chalk markers or pens.
They don’t create any residue of any kind, making it cleaner to work with and much safer as well. That said, if you are planning on working with chalk markers, then make sure the chalkboard paint is a compatible surface for it. After all, having ghost marks on your new chalkboard is the last thing you’d want.
Furthermore, there are marker kits that can be used without the need to create a chalkboard surface. These markers can be directly drawn on the glass. However, if you do use paint to create a chalkboard, make sure it has a low odor and contains little to no VOCs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chalk markers use ink to create the marking on the glass, meaning they remain on the surface itself. As glass is a non-porous material, it is able to keep the ink on top until it dries without any smears.
On the other hand, if these same markers were used on a porous surface such as wood, the result would be quite different. The ink would permeate across the surface and bleed into the surrounding areas as it spread into the wood. As wood has small gaps between it, the ink is not able to dry on the surface, rendering it a permanent addition to the surface.
Conditioning is a process used on older chalkboards where the surface requires a thin layer of chalk before it can be drawn on. Rubbing a piece of chalk along the length of the chalkboard would create this layer to form a more durable surface.
Although this is not always a necessary step for modern chalkboards, there are still some paints that may require conditioning before being used. As always, pay attention to the included instructions to make sure the paint works the way you intended.
My Final Recommendation
Hopefully, you are now more familiar with chalk paints for glass and how to pick the best one for your needs.Â
My all-around choice has to go to the American Crafts paint, as it is both non-toxic and odorless, making it easy to work with. However, the No products found. is a close second; the one coat application is a life-saver and can save you both money and energy.Â
But if markers are more your preference, then the Chalkola chk_3mm_var kit has a variety of colors to choose from with a great felt tip to boot.Â
A simple pop of colorful text or décor can do wonders for your décor. And the sky’s the limit with these handy tools at your disposal.
On that note, I’ll now sign off. See you again!