Reusable Wall Calendar Instructions & Tips
Inspiration & answers to FAQs
Writing on your calendar
What can I write on my calendar with?
If you want to be able to erase and reuse your calendar, you must use white liquid chalk markers. Other colors or types of chalk markers may leave residual color behind (also called "color ghosting").
Dry-erase markers are NOT compatible with our calendars. Traditional pens and markers will not write well on the smooth, coated surface and are not erasable.
We are not responsible for and cannot issue refunds for damage caused by what you choose to write on your calendar with.
What chalk markers do you recommend?
We sell our own fine-tip white liquid chalk markers, which work beautifully on our reusable wall calendars. If you prefer to order your white liquid chalk markers elsewhere, we recommend these white chalk markers.
Can I use dry-erase markers?
No. The matte coating on our reusable calendars is very different than a dry-erase surface or typical glossy lamination and is not compatible with dry-erase markers.
Can I use any other colors of liquid chalk markers?
There are so many different brands and colors of liquid chalk markers that we can't test them all to confirm which will erase cleanly. Generally speaking, the more pigmented or saturated the color (such as black or red), the higher the chance of color ghosting.
If you would like to assume the risk of testing other colors, we recommend that you do so on an inconspicuous area to ensure it erases cleanly and completely before using it to write all over your calendar.
We are not responsible for and cannot issue refunds for damage caused by what you choose to write on your calendar with.
Using sticky notes & washi tape
Can I use washi tape and/or sticky notes on my calendar?
Yes! Using washi tape and sticky notes is a fantastic way to highlight certain events (see the photo below for an example). But there are a few important things to consider before using them:
- To keep your calendar looking its best, avoid hanging it in strong sunlight or under bright fluorescent lights. Prolonged exposure to either can cause fading and will leave shadows behind sticky notes, washi tape, or chalk marker writing, which will make your calendar unsuitable for reuse.
- Washi tape and/or the adhesive portion of sticky notes should never be placed over/on top of liquid chalk marker. The adhesive can cause the liquid chalk to stick to the calendar and may make it impossible to erase. So be sure to only write on (and not underneath) your washi tape and sticky notes!
If you find that your sticky notes curl or have a tendency to fall off of things, you may find this video helpful!
Cleaning your calendar
How should I clean my calendar?
Chalk markers don’t erase like dry-erase markers. Liquid chalk markers are a wet-erase product. To clean liquid chalk writing off your calendar, wipe it with a damp cloth and then dry it immediately with a dry cloth.
You’ll need to use firm pressure when wiping--a quick, gentle swipe usually isn’t enough. If the writing has been on the calendar for quite a while, it may take a few extra passes and a bit more pressure.
More tips:
- Do not use a magic eraser, scrub pad, or anything else that is abrasive on your calendar, as it could damage the special coating.
- Wait for all liquid chalk to dry completely before attempting to erase it to reduce the possibility of ghosting.
- Erase all liquid chalk off before storing any unused months. Note that liquid chalk writing that has been on your calendar for a long time should still erase from your calendar, but it may take a bit more effort :)
Size & spacing details
How much wall space do I need?
It totally depends! Each month is 16 inches wide by 20 inches tall. The arrangement possibilities are endless depending on how much wall space you have and what your preferences are.
You have endless options:
Hang all 12 at a time, 4 at a time, 3 at a time (perfect for businesses who are focused on quarterly goals), or even 1 at a time.
Here are some examples that show the range of wall space you might need for different arrangements.
Hanging your calendar
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: Where to hang your calendar
To keep your calendar looking its best, avoid hanging it in direct sunlight or under bright, fluorescent lights.
Prolonged exposure to UV rays and/or fluorescent lights can cause fading and may leave shadows behind sticky notes, washi tape, and/or chalk marker writing, which will make your calendar unsuitable for reuse.
How should I hang my calendar?
By far the most frequently asked question we get about our large wall calendars is "how do I hang them?" The short answer is that you can hang them however you would hang a thick art print or poster (thumbtacks, push pins, poster hanging strips, frames, etc.).
You can find some specific ideas and recommendations at the bottom of this page.
What is the best way to hang the calendars so they last as long as possible?
It depends.
If you plan to hang them in a high traffic area and/or where little hands might touch them frequently, the most durable option would be to hang them in frames.
If you plan to hang them in your office where you only touch them when you need to add an appointment or deadline, frames should not be necessary.
Material considerations:
Paper Thickness: Our monthly wall calendars are made from thick 350gsm cardstock paper that has a special matte coating on the front. The thickness of the paper is similar to what a very high-quality greeting card is printed on.
The thickness of the paper makes them far more durable than similar products you may have seen. But they are still PAPER, so how they hold up over time will depend on how much and how gently or roughly you handle them.
Coated Surface: The special coating on our paper calendars is VERY different from typical dry-erase or laminated surfaces that are thick and shiny. Our coating has a beautiful, matte finish and adds very little weight to the paper. The coating does not make the paper stiff or rigid like traditional dry-erase calendars.
Get Inspired
Calendar Hanging Ideas
Each month is printed separately so that you have endless display and layout options. Check out some of our favorite hanging and display ideas below!
Hang them directly on your wall.
Thumb tacks and push pins are easy and inexpensive.
Click here to see several options that won't leave holes in your calendar.
Watch the video to see some of them in action :)
Put them in frames.
If you are only going to hang 1 to 4 months at a time, I love the idea of hanging them in 16 x 20-inch frames. Liquid chalk markers work great on glass or plexiglass! You can find some of the frames that are popular with our customers here.
OR click on any image below to see frame recommendations.
Add faux oversized poster hangers.
This is how I personally display the calendar that is in my office. It's a very simple DIY project! You can see the tutorial for how to make faux oversized poster hangers here.
Hang all 12 months with a large clip.
This is my favorite hanging option if you are short on wall space! Just use a large clip like this one for a simple and beautiful way to hang all 12 months of your calendar.
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