The easy-to-make chalkboard serving platter
<p>Serving cheese and nibbles to your grapes on a slate or chalkboard dish is all the rage right now. But you don’t have to spend big bucks on designer platters and trays to achieve this fun look. You can get creative and make your own version that is sure to be a talking point at your next barbecue or dinner party.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">What you’ll need:</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>A porcelain platter in desired shape and size</li>
<li>Porcelain chalkboard paint (available at most craft stores – check the packaging to ensure it is suitable for your surface)</li>
<li>Soft paint brush</li>
<li>Your oven</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">How to do it:</span></strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Ensure the surface you want to transform is clean and dry. If you’re not painting the whole surface, use painter’s tape to cover the areas you wish to remain as they are.</li>
<li>Apply the paint using to the desired area. You can get creative with it – perhaps you’ll paint one long strip down the middle of your tray, or a thick border around the outside, or just cover the whole surface. Be careful with your brush strokes, as this paint can leave streaks.</li>
<li>Apply a second (thin) coat if needed and remove the tape before the paint dries.</li>
<li>Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours and then bake according to the instructions on the back of your paint bottle. When finished baking, switch your oven off and allow to cool to room temperature before removing the platter. This will ensure the surface is dishwasher and microwave safe.</li>
</ol>
<p>NOTE: Chalkboard paint will often warn that it should not come into contact with food, so you may wish to use small plates or napkins on top of the surface. Though the paints are usually water-based and listed as non-toxic.</p>
<p><em>Image credit: RelyMe.com</em></p>
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