Camper Overhaul Part 1: Painting the refrigerator

Since I am a renter and have no freedom when it comes to painting or changing things in my house, I have decided to take out that energy on my new camper. My husband bought the camper for our family for Hanukah. He actually worked it out in a trade so we didn't even have to pay a dime for it! I love bartering!

The camper, a 1992 Shasta, was in pretty great condition. But, like I said before, my decorating "clock" has been ticking pretty loudly. And frankly, the interior was just way too early 90's for my liking.

I knew I wanted to cover up the awful wood paneled refrigerator so that is where i began. I painted it with a flat, 100% acrylic paint. The color was charcoal, but you could have any color you want as long as it is 100% acrylic flat paint.  I think I will make a red chalkboard for the house sometime soon.  Here is how it works.

Step 1: Tape around edges with painters tape.

Be sure to sue a high quality painters tape. I made the mistake of using cheap stuff and will probably spend most of my summer chipping paint off of the trim. 

Step 2: Prime

I skipped this step because I always take the path of least resistance. My project worked out okay but if you have the time I would recommend using the primer. 

Step 3: Apply the paint. 

Apply 3 coats of the 100% acrylic flat paint. Be sure to allow plenty of time to dry between coats. I waited at least 24 hours between each coat. 

Step 4: The waiting game. 

After the 3rd coat of paint is dry, wait at least 7 days for the paint to dry and set before using chalk on it. After the 7 days, it should be ready for use!

I was pleasantly surprised at how well this paint worked for a chalkboard.  It was smooth to write on with chalk, and wiped off with ease with just a damp paper towel.  I have used the chalkboard spraypaint before, and this turned out much nicer.

 

Happy Painting and check back soon for Part 2: Painting the interior walls.