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DIY 4th of July Sign with Chalkboard Typography

You know I can’t resist when someone offers me some free goodies, especially when they say they’re going to BURN THEM.{{gasp}} If you’ve been following over the last few months, you know I was bestowed with the stash-to-end-all-stashes of cupboard doors. I’m more than halfway through them and am eager to show you how this one is my DIY 4th of July sign.

Cupboard Door Before Makeover by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Here’s is the stash I’m referring to…

Salvaged Cupboard Door Stash for Upcycling Projects by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

See what I mean? eep! (also, notice the American flag flying proudly behind said stash). Today’s project is a must, don’t you say? You see my cupboard door journey in these past posts HERE. Even my kids have joined in with their own projects.

Since so many of you are enjoying my videos, I decided to make one for this tutorial because I am very much a visual learner too. Not only will I have all the steps laid out here, but also feel free to peek at the video tutorial below as well.

With the birth of our nation in the United States coming up, I thought it would be fun to create some patriotic decor. However, this project can be used for any holiday, season, or use. Nevertheless, the basic idea can be utilized to create any kind of art you like, in any color, for any reason.

To get started, here is a list of items you will need to complete this project:

TERMS OF USE: when you create this sign you agree to the following: it cannot be shared or distributed for monetary gain in any way, it may not be modified in any way, and you may not claim the work as your own.

  • paint brushes
  • pastels
  • black paint
  • white paint
  • red paint
  • blue paint
  • painter’s low tack tape
  • strong adhesive spray
  • low tack adhesive spray
  • keyhole hanger (for wall mount)
  • printable stars (see below)
  • graphic of your choosing (options are limitless!)

STEP 1

First, as with any DIY project, preparation is key. I’m using a cupboard door for my project, but you can use most any thing you prefer. (plywood, thrifted art, etc.) I begin by using a 2:1 ratio for a vinegar mixture to clean and prep the surface of my door. Also, you could also lightly sand if you would like to add tooth. Keep in mind that I don’t often do that when it’s an item used for decor.

First, I begin by applying a coat of the black paint to the entire door. Notice I’m painting in the direction of the grain. This allows my strokes to flow evenly and that oak grain to get excellent coverage.

Painting Cupboard Door with Zibra Fan Paint Brush by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Once I let the first coat cure for approximately 2 hours, I apply a second coat of the black to the center panel only. Afterward, this will give me the chalkboard background I’m after. No special chalkboard paint needed.

To get my crisp, clean lines without tape, I use white paint to frame the center panel.

Painting Chalkboard Cupboard Door Trim with Zibra Square Paint Brush by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Also, I only apply a light coat of the white because the end result of what I’m after for my DIY 4th of July sign is a rustic appeal. In other words, having the black background allows me to create depth of texture.

STEP 2

Next, it’s time to add the details. My goal was to create a wavy flag sort of backdrop to my chalkboard center panel. Before I added more paint, I printed out a sheet of 1 ½ stars and used my applique method to adhere them. I share the full DIY details in the video below and also demonstrate it in this sign post HERE.

I’ve made available 3 sizes of stars for you to print and use for your own projects. (these are for personal use only, no commercial reproduction or sale)

↓PRINTABLE STARS BELOW↓

Last it’s time to add the color fun. I used my square brush and the blue paint to create a blue field in the top corner. Again, I only used one light coat of paint over the stars and let cure.

Painting Blue Star Field on this DIY 4th of July Sign by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Meanwhile, I let the blue paint cure and then worked on the stripes on the opposing corner of the door. I lightly drew in a few wavy stripes and then I fill in the stripes with the red paint.

STEP 3

When both colors had cured, I pulled off my stars that I had tacked on earlier. Likewise, you can see the rustic result I was after came out just as I’d hoped. However, if you would prefer clean lines, you could topcoat your white layer with a poly before adding the stars too. That aids in a clean removal.

Removing Reverse Stencil Stars from DIY 4th of July Sign by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #4thofjuly

STEP 4

Last, but not least, it’s time to add our typography. Again, with this project you could create most any kind of sign or art as the sky’s the limit. I created a graphic in my software and then applied using my transfer method.

DIY Transfer Method to Create Your Own Decor | Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #4thofjuly

Hand-Painting Typography on DIY 4th of July Sign by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #4thofjuly #homedecor

In addition to a little distressing, I also add a bit of brown wax to age my project. These brushes are great for many uses as I’ve shown in these past posts. Also, if you like, you can add the keyhole hardware mentioned above for wall mount or simply rest your sign on a surface.

Waxing DIY 4th of July Patriotic Sign with Zibra Paint Brushes by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #paint

DIY Video Tutorial for Upcycled 4th of July Sign from Cupboard Door by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

THE REVEAL

Finally, our DIY 4th of July sign is done and ready to celebrate our national holiday.

Farmhouse Style 4th of July Decor by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #farmhouse #diy #home #homedecor #4thofjuly

American Flag Sign with "God Bless America" Typography | Video tutorial at Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #4thofjuly #farmhouse #homedecor

Remember, while I created this for to celebrate the birth of the United States, this sign could certainly have been made for any occasion. What would you create it to celebrate? (Christmas, Easter, any old day?)

DIY Upcycled 4th of July Sign with video tutorial & free star printables by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #farmhouse #4thofjuly #printables #homedecor

God Bless American Sign with Free Star Printables and Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #printable #4thofjuly #farmhouse #home #homedecor

I had a blast creating this to share with you. Likewise, I hope you had fun too! My goal was to inspire you to get creative with those cast-offs and make art for your home.

Farmhouse Style 4th of July Sign with Free Star Printable and Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #4thofjuly #homedecor #farmhouse

Upcycled Cupboard Door Turned Patriotic Sign | Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #farmhouse

If you’d like to own this sign, you can find it available in my shop for purchase along with all the other goodies for you.

  • Magic Linen Beige Waffle Blanket available at Prodigal Pieces | shop.prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #bedding
    Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130

Also, I’d like to send a huge thank you to our troops who defend our country night and day, allowing me to have the freedoms I enjoy. I salute you!

Farmhouse Style Americana Decor for 4th of July Celebration | prodigalpieces #prodigalpieces #diy #farmhouse #4thofJuly #home #homedecor

SHARE

Additionally, pin and share this DIY 4th of July sign tutorial to inspire others. Sharing is fun!

Who knew a cupboard door could look so good! Larissa of Prodigal Pieces shares how she created this DIY 4th of July Sign with video tutorial | It can be for any holiday or just because. Head to prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #home #homedecor #4thofjuly #independenceday #holiday #farmhosue

Up next, JC and I are sharing our latest addition to our home…HEAD HERE to see.

Outside Bike Storage Before DIY Shed | prodigalpieces.com

To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!

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In addition, more projects like my DIY 4th of July sign:

DIY Patriotic Fourth of July Bunting made from Thrifted Fabric - Celebrat Independance Day Thrifted Style by Prodigal Pieces www.prodigalpieces.comHow to Freshen Up Your Outdoor Decor with Repurposed Planters and Succulents by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

Comments

  1. ColleenB.-Tx. says

    What a Great 4th of July sign or one that can be put out anytime of the year.

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! Super fun for me to share and create. I just love the versatility of chalkboards.

      • Toia says

        I love how you made the flag ‘wave’! Perfect way to reuse cupboard doors! I need to paint a houseful of trim, and these brushes would be a very welcome bonus! Happy dance to whoever wins them! God bless America!!

        • Larissa says

          Yay! I’m happy to hear you like my vision for this door. You sound like me with the load of work. Here’s to DIY and the freedom we have in the good ol’ USA!

      • Sandi says

        The first thing I would paint is continuing my kitchen cabinets. They may all get done someday. Lol Neat piece!!

  2. Frances Batson says

    I love the sign. It is so great.

    • Cheryl says

      Hi Larissa! I would have never thought of making a chalkboard sign out of a cabinet door. I want to try this now. I love you patriotic sign. God Bless you and our Country

      • Larissa says

        Hooray! That’s what I like to hear, Cheryl. Thank you!

  3. Dale Cundy says

    You did a fantastic job! I would love to have this sign in my home!??

    • Larissa says

      You are so sweet, Dale. Thank you! This one sold lightning fast, and I hope to make more in different sizes. Let me know if you’re interested.

  4. Lori Sawyer says

    What an awesome sign!!

  5. Cindy says

    Larissa another great project. I love how this turned out and what great way to show patriotism. Bless the men and women that make the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

    Cindy

    • Larissa says

      Thank you so much. I’m definitely a fan of the USA! 😀

  6. Alison S says

    I have some chairs and a dresserd I would like to paint.

  7. Lisa Saunders says

    What a stash of cupboards! I love to have some of your stash :). I loved your DIY and your show of patriotism. Thanks for the sharing. I think the first thing I would love to paint with the Zibra brushes are some old picture frames that I have.

    • Larissa says

      Right?! I was so blessed to receive them. Thanks so much for the love on my work. I know you’ll love these brushes, Lisa. 😀

  8. Stefanie says

    This was awesome!….I even already have a stack of ready to go cabinet doors…LOVE any celebration!….
    Thank you for sharing your talent with us!!!

    • Larissa says

      You go girl!! Sounds like you have some DIY fun on the horizon. My pleasure to share. 😉

  9. Mary says

    What a terrific sign! I love how the flag is acting as the background for the sign. I would love to try the zibra brushes on many of my projects. I’m a sucker for curly cues and carved edges on furniture. I think these brushes would make my job a lot easier! Happy 4th and thanks for sharing! Mary

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! I was inspired by a vignette I once saw with an old flag. You sound like my twin, Mary. tee hee!

  10. Abby says

    I love the rustic chalky look of this sign! I’m going to be painting my end tables soon! I know I keep saying that, but this time I mean it ?

  11. Micah says

    Nice sign! I love those brushes! I’d probably tackle a dresser.

  12. kelly kayfes says

    Nice job Larrisa!

  13. Cate says

    Larissa, I just love this rustic sign! What a great job! Thank you for the inspiration.

    • Larissa says

      Happy dance! That’s so fun to hear as I truly enjoy creating. Thank you, Cate!

  14. Kathy E. says

    I have a few old cabinet doors in my basement, so I’d use my Zibra brushes to make a “Welcome to Our Porch” sign!

  15. Fran Wilson says

    I have an old table in my craft room that came from my grandfather’s and father’s bakery. It is in dire need of a sprucing up, so that would be my project.
    Love all your posts/ideas/creativity! Thanks for sharing your awesome skills.

    • Larissa says

      Sounds like a sweet treasure. My absolute joy to share. Thanks, Fran!

  16. Peggie says

    Love the 4Th of July sign. I want to put it in our living room.

    • Larissa says

      How wonderful to hear! Thank you, Peggie. I may make more in different sizes, so let me know if you’re interested via email.

  17. Michele says

    How awesome! Your creativity always amazes me. I would love to try my hand at making one of these and since I have several old cabinet doors I could try to make one for each holiday!

    • Larissa says

      That’s the spirit, Michele!! Yay! I am tickled to hear it. Thank you!

  18. Melinda says

    Love the re-use of all those cupboard doors! I could use a few myself!

    • Larissa says

      Hooray! I am so glad I was bestowed such a gift. Thanks for the love, Melinda.

  19. Ginny Pokorny says

    Larissa, Great job! Love The Americana theme! Thanks for sharing your creative ideas! It is always fun to see what you’re up to.

  20. Mary says

    Well done Larissa, so pretty and you make it look very do-able, thank you!

    • Larissa says

      You are sweet to say so, Mary. What fun this was…thanks!

  21. gwen says

    it looks great and perfect for Flag Day too – Friday, June 14th!

  22. KaleriaS says

    I just found your website today! We are buying our first house and the list of all the things we’d like to DIY is getting long! I really appreciate your projects you’ve posted, and the confidence you encourage us readers to have. I have been on the fence about some projects, but after reading through how your family did it, I feel like we can do it, too! We have been on a thrifting/free pick-up binge and just got a really nice arts & crafts style dresser set. My daughter and I will sand it, and if we win this set of brushes, paint with them! May God bless us all!))

    • Larissa says

      Hi Kaleria! I’m so tickled to have you join me on my DIY journey. Your words mean so much to me as I try to share relevant topics that others can take and use on their own. Sending hugs!

  23. Kaycee says

    Wow Larissa, you certainly are going through your stash of cupboard doors! You and your children have created such beautiful and imaginative decor using these doors! Well done on this patriotic sign, I love how unique this is!!

    • Larissa says

      Imma tryin’! I need to get my workshop emptied and redesigned before winter. Time’s awastin’! 😀 Thank you for the love on my work, Kaycee.

  24. Sherry Riggs says

    Such a neat idea and recycling too!

    • Sara says

      I would paint some craft and home projects I’ve been putting off.

  25. Babette says

    I would paint my China cabinet! I have wanted to update it forever and have been putting if off. Awesome giveaway!

  26. Mary says

    That is really a lovely repurpose Larissa. I love patriotic decor.

    • Larissa says

      Thank you, Mary. You need one for Greece and USA…that would be a fun project to try. 😀

  27. Jo Ann says

    I love this sign! The way you placed the stars and stripes was very creative. Thank you for sharing.

  28. Evelyn says

    I’m VERY into DIY and love to repurpose all kinds of things. I am deeply patriotic and I’m grateful for & appreciate the time & service of our armed forces and first responders.
    I love this idea. I have a stash of cupboard doors, not as big as yours, but I love this idea for using some. I have given some of my repurposed doors away as gifts and think its a great use of these doors!

  29. Betsy W says

    The sign looks great! I think Im going to look for some cabinet doors.
    The first thing i would paint with my Zibra brushes is a cute livingroom chair that needs reupholstering too.

  30. Kathy Emerick says

    I am planning on redoing a floor jewelry box. Trying to find a place that sells nice paint.

  31. Amy French says

    I enjoy your blog and youtube videos. You are very talented and it’s kind of you to share your ideas.

    • Larissa says

      Those kinds of comments really make my day. I try! 😀 Thank you.

  32. janet a phillips says

    You always have such great ideas ! would love to win these awesome brushes

  33. Michele Meacham says

    As always … another great idea!! Thanks for all your inspiration!!!

  34. Zebrina Easterday says

    Love the sign and a little jealous of your stash of doors!

  35. Kim Banko says

    Larissa! I’m blown away. I was expecting a simple painted flag. I love how you incorporated the flag with the quote. Wow!!

    • Larissa says

      aww…thank you, Kim. This was fun for me to make my vision come alive.

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