Chalkboard placemats

Chalkboard placemats
Originally uploaded by mama's doodles.

I loved the idea of the commercially produced chalkboard placemats for children, but didn't want to pay for them (they were about $20-25 each!).

Here's my handmade replica - a set of four that will be given to my nieces. They are double sided, a pretty side (for their Mama)...and the chalkboard side (for the doodler's)...and they roll-up for traveling. I used completely non-toxic chalkboard paint.

I also included a piece of chalk, a felt eraser, and a shrinky dink pin labeling each one with the nieces name.

I really like how these turned out!! I love the idea of my sister-in-law leaving notes for the girls on them, or thinking of the girls drawing patiently while their Mom makes dinner. And, if they are chalked up and looking messy -- Voila, they can be flipped over and look decorative for unexpected company.

The only not-so-practical thing about these wonderful things is - they can be handwashed, but I don't think they should be thrown in the washing machine. I don't know how chalkboard paint would weather that ride...