Chalkboards

Best Chalkboards for Home & Office: Stylish Picks, Buying Guide, and Accessories

Why chalkboards still matter in a digital world

Think chalkboards are old-fashioned? Think again. Chalkboards offer tactile, immediate communication that screens can’t replicate. They’re perfect for quick reminders in the kitchen, rustic menus in a café, brainstorming sessions in an office, or playful doodles in a kid’s room. A well-chosen chalkboard adds personality and function—like a blank stage where ideas, lists, and art perform in real time.

Top chalkboard picks to consider

If you’re shopping for a chalkboard, start by looking at both design and durability. Two standout items to know about are the Kay Bojesen Hippo Chalk Board in Black and the Bloomingville Higma Chalkboard in Black. The Kay Bojesen piece blends playful Danish design with chalk-friendly functionality, while the Bloomingville Higma is a sizable framed board ideal for wall-mounted use. Beyond those, consider magnetic boards, glass “chalk” boards, and peel-and-stick chalk decals for non-permanent needs.

Kay Bojesen Hippo Chalk Board — design meets playful function

The Kay Bojesen Hippo Chalk Board is a whimsical take on the classic chalkboard. Its sculptural, animal-inspired shape attracts attention and encourages interaction. If you want a chalkboard that doubles as décor, this one fits the bill: it looks like art when it’s blank and becomes a fun message center when you write on it. The black surface gives high contrast for white or colorful chalk, making messages pop.

Who the Kay Bojesen hippo suits best

Choose the Kay Bojesen hippo if you want something decorative for a child’s room, entryway, or boutique space. It’s ideal for people who care about Scandinavian design and enjoy a touch of whimsy. Because it’s often smaller than typical wall boards, it’s excellent for short notes, single-word reminders, or small sketches rather than full-size menus or meeting notes.

Bloomingville Higma Chalkboard — classic framed style

The Bloomingville Higma Chalkboard is a great option when you need a traditional framed board that makes a strong visual statement. Listed at approximately 20 x 31.5 inches, this board offers a generous writing area without overwhelming a standard wall. The framed edge gives it a finished, gallery-like look that works well in kitchens, home offices, and restaurants. Its black finish provides crisp contrast and a modern, minimalist vibe.

Mounting options and placement ideas for the Higma

Because of its size, the Higma is best mounted at eye level—roughly 60 to 66 inches from the floor to the center for most adults. Use sturdy wall hooks or picture-hanging hardware rated for the board’s weight. Place it near your command center, next to the fridge, or above a console table. In a café or bar, position it where customers can read it easily from the main seating area.

Other chalkboard styles worth considering

Not every situation calls for a framed, rigid board. These days you’ll find several chalkboard styles that suit different needs: magnetic chalkboards, glass “chalk” boards (which take liquid chalk markers), peel-and-stick chalk sheets, and classic slate chalkboards. Each type has pros and cons based on durability, ease of cleaning, and aesthetics.

Magnetic chalkboards — two tools in one

Magnetic chalkboards let you pin notes, photos, or coupons with magnets while also offering a writeable surface. They’re great for kitchens and home offices where you need to combine lists with visual references. Choose a magnetic steel backing if you expect heavy use, as those tend to be more reliable and less prone to warping.

Glass chalkboards and liquid chalk markers

Glass chalkboards look sleek and are easy to clean. They work best with liquid chalk markers, which provide bright, smudge-resistant color. If you want a modern menu board or a design surface for vibrant artwork, glass plus markers provides a professional finish. Note: not all liquid markers are erasable on every glass surface, so test before committing to permanent placements.

How to choose the right chalkboard size

Picking the right size depends on purpose and space. For family message boards or small cafés, a 20 x 31.5 inch board (the size of the Bloomingville Higma) is roomy enough for a weekly menu or a list of chores without dominating the wall. For classroom-style or full-menu use, scale up to boards that are several feet across. For narrow hallways or small nooks, smaller decorative boards like the Kay Bojesen hippo work well. Measure the wall and visualize the board size in relation to furniture before you buy.

Chalkboard accessories that make a difference

Accessories turn a good chalkboard into a great one. A quality chalk rail or tray keeps chalk and erasers handy. Pick a soft felt eraser to reduce scratching and a microfiber cloth for deeper cleaning. Chalk markers come in a rainbow of colors and are especially striking on black surfaces. Magnetic clips and small baskets can add storage for chalk dusters, cards, or appointment slips if your board is magnetic or has a rail.

Best chalk and markers for crisp, clean writing

For traditional chalkboards, dustless compressed chalk gives intense color with less mess. For modern glass or sealed boards, liquid chalk markers deliver bold strokes and vibrant hues. If you’re doing detailed artwork, get a set of fine-tip markers for precision and broad-tip markers for filling large areas. Keep a few extra tips and cleaning wipes on hand to maintain clarity and brightness over time.

Cleaning and maintenance: keep your board looking new

Regular cleaning prevents ghosting—those faint marks left behind after erasing. For standard boards, start with a dry eraser, then wipe with a damp microfiber cloth. For stubborn residue, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water or use a vinegar-and-water solution. For glass boards, use a glass cleaner or isopropyl alcohol for streak-free results. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface, and always test any product on a small corner first.

Mounting, safety, and installation tips

Install your board securely—especially larger pieces like the Higma. Use anchors appropriate for drywall or masonry, and ensure the board’s hanging hardware is rated for the weight. If children will be using the board, mount it lower so they can reach comfortably, and secure any small accessories to avoid choking hazards. For freestanding boards, choose stable easels or bases to prevent tipping.

Creative uses that go beyond lists

Chalkboards are incredibly versatile. Use one as a rotating art gallery in a hallway, a wedding photo backdrop, a menu board for a dinner party, or a lesson board for homeschooling. Businesses use chalkboards for daily specials and promotional blurbs, while crafters map out project steps on a large board. The tactile act of writing with chalk can spark creativity and make routines feel more intentional—like turning the everyday into a small ceremony.

Budget-friendly picks and where to compare prices

If budget matters, explore peel-and-stick chalk sheets or smaller framed boards first. These options offer most of the functionality at a fraction of the cost of large framed boards. For the best deal, use price comparison websites and read user reviews to spot recurring issues such as ghosting, poor frames, or flimsy hanging hardware. Comparison platforms help you filter by size, style, and ratings so you can quickly narrow to the best value.

Final buying checklist

Before you buy, run through a quick checklist: measure your wall space, decide between traditional chalk and liquid markers, choose a mounting method, confirm surface type (glass, slate, painted wood), and pick accessories like trays and markers. Think about the board’s primary use—art, menus, lists, or learning—and select the style and size that match that purpose. This small bit of planning will save you time and ensure your new chalkboard fits seamlessly into your routine and décor.

Wrapping it up: which chalkboard should you pick?

If you want a statement piece that’s playful and design-forward, the Kay Bojesen Hippo Chalk Board offers charm and a conversation starter. If you need practical writing space with a polished look, the Bloomingville Higma Chalkboard at about 20 x 31.5 inches is a reliable pick. For heavy-duty menu use, go larger or choose a magnetic steel board. For modern, colorful signage, glass boards with liquid markers shine. Whatever you choose, match the board to the intended daily use and the room’s scale—then enjoy watching plain walls come alive.

Conclusion

Chalkboards are more than nostalgic relics; they’re functional, stylish tools that suit modern life. From the playful Kay Bojesen Hippo to the roomy Bloomingville Higma, there’s a chalkboard for every need and space. Think about size, surface, and accessories, and don’t forget to maintain your board so it looks great for years. A chalkboard can turn reminders into art and daily routines into small moments of joy—so pick one that invites you to write, draw, and connect.