As a writer, city dweller, and general nerd, I love the idea of functional walls.  My favorite functional wall is a bookshelf, but running a close second are walls that function as writing surfaces.

If you read design blogs, you’ve already seen the Pixelnotes wallpaper (right).  Created by Sirkka Hammer & Duncan Wilson, Pixelnotes is:

“A wallpaper consisting of four layers of varying grey tones on a bright primary backing. Each layer is perforated in a grid format and backed with a tacky adhesive similar to ‘post-it’ notes.”

As you use the post-its, a pixelated pattern emerges on the wall.  Needless to say, I loved the design immediately; unfortunately, it’s only a conceptual creation at this point, and not available for purchase.

So I was delighted when, thumbing through this month’s Martha Stewart Living, I found this DIY chalkboard calendar (below). I was struck by the visual & functional similarity to the Pixelnotes paper.  In fact, I like the chalkboard even better, since it can be reused.  You can also vary the placement, size of individual squares, & colors for something more artistic or abstract.

All you need is some black chalkboard paint, homemade white chalkboard paint, tape, and a brush. The full how-to explanation is available on MSL’s website, and also in the January issue of MSL (pages 130-134).