Oak-Framed Chalkboard

Description

Before post-it notes, white boards, and pre-printed grocery lists, there was the chalkboard. Thankfully, the schoolroom classic is still alive and well – literally. Our gorgeous version features slate reclaimed from a southern Ohio schoolhouse, framed in quartersawn oak with a handrubbed finish. With its built-in shelf for chalk and erasers, this board would make a wonderful family message center in the entryway, list keeper in the kitchen, note taker in the office, or art surface in the play room.

Quartersawn oak, one of the hallmarks of the Arts & Crafts movement, is obtained by cutting a log at a 90-degree angle from the growth rings, which creates straight parallel lines that run the length of the board. Quartersawn oak is stronger, isn't as likely to warp, and holds finishes better than plain-sawn wood.