In the two and a half years since relocating to our new home, the playroom we designed for my children has seen minimal use. To reclaim some personal space, I devoted last weekend to revamping this area into an inviting space where the kids would actually want to spend time, rather than hovering just inches from where I am.
Looking for an interesting focal point for the main wall, I decided to apply magnetic paint—especially since our home lacks any magnetic surfaces. This way, the kids could display their artwork instead of tossing it in the recycling bin, and we would have a designated spot for holiday cards. Armed with a roller and a can of black magnetic paint, I thought I was ready to go. Score one for mom!
However, my experience did not go as smoothly as I’d hoped. The paint’s packaging promised that three coats would suffice, but that turned out to be inaccurate—nothing would adhere to that wall after just three attempts. After applying six coats, I finally achieved a surface that magnets would stick to, which was satisfying, but the undertaking was exhausting.
On the bright side, my children are now eager to play in their refurbished playroom. The downside? They’re already making a mess of my artistic endeavor. Still, the joy of hearing them play happily—albeit from a distance—makes the effort worthwhile.
Tips for Using Magnetic Paint
If you’re considering using magnetic paint in your home, here are some crucial tips I learned through trial and error:
- Stir Well: This paint requires vigorous mixing; prepare for a serious arm workout.
- Protect Your Hands: Wear gloves unless you want to sport semi-permanent black nails.
- Cover Everything: This paint drips excessively, so use plenty of drop cloths.
- Have Paint Thinner Handy: You’ll need it for the splatters, which are abundant.
- Ventilate: The odor is strong, so open windows and use a fan.
- Buy More Than You Think: You will require significantly more paint than anticipated. The more layers you apply, the stronger the magnetism becomes.
Alternatively, you might consider simply purchasing a large magnetic board. However, doing so would deprive you of the opportunity to declare, “I spent an entire weekend painting this room; you better enjoy it!”
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In summary, while transforming a room with magnetic paint can be a labor-intensive process, the end result can create a space where children feel inspired to engage and play. The balance of effort and reward is worth considering, especially when it fosters joyful experiences for the little ones.