The first day of school. Just reading those words brings a rush of emotions, doesn't it? The crisp new backpack, the perfectly sharpened pencils, the nervous excitement bubbling up in your child (and let's be honest, in us too!). It’s a moment steeped in anticipation, a tangible marker of growth, and an annual tradition that deserves to be celebrated and immortalized. For many of us, that celebration includes the quintessential "First Day of School" photo, complete with a charming, personalized sign.
But let’s be real: in the whirlwind of back-to-school preparations – school supply lists, new clothes, bus routes, and perhaps a few last-minute summer adventures – finding or creating the perfect first day of school printable sign can feel like one more thing on an already overflowing plate. I’ve been there. I distinctly remember the year I was so overwhelmed, I nearly forgot the sign entirely, scrambling to hand-draw something legible just minutes before the bus arrived. It was a chaotic, albeit memorable, moment that taught me the true value of being prepared, especially when it comes to capturing these fleeting milestones. That's why I'm so passionate about making this process easier, more joyful, and utterly stress-free for you.
This isn't just about a piece of paper; it's about capturing a moment in time, a snapshot of innocence, growth, and the exciting journey ahead. A well-chosen first day of school printable sign acts as a visual time capsule, marking the grade, the year, and often, the unique personality of your child at that very specific age. From tiny tots heading to kindergarten to confident teens stepping into high school, these signs become cherished keepsakes, forming a beautiful chronological narrative of their academic adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about these wonderful memory-makers. We’ll explore an array of creative ideas, practical tips, and even advanced strategies to ensure your first day photos are not just good, but truly unforgettable. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let's make this year's first day picture the best one yet!
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Table of Contents
- [Classic & Timeless First Day of School Printable Signs](#classic-timeless-first-day-of-school-printable-signs)
- [Personalized & Customizable Printable Options](#personalized-customizable-printable-options)
- [Creative Themes Beyond the Basics](#creative-themes-beyond-the-basics)
- [Signs for Every Age & Stage: From Preschool to High School](#signs-for-every-age-stage-from-preschool-to-high-school)
- [DIY & Crafty Printable Sign Ideas](#diy-crafty-printable-sign-ideas)
- [Photography Tips & Tricks with Your Printable Sign](#photography-tips-tricks-with-your-printable-sign)
- [Eco-Friendly & Reusable Printable Solutions](#eco-friendly-reusable-printable-solutions)
- [Last-Minute Lifesavers: Quick Printables for Busy Mornings](#last-minute-lifesavers-quick-printables-for-busy-mornings)
- [Beyond the Sign: Complementary Printables & Keepsakes](#beyond-the-sign-complementary-printables-keepsakes)
- [How to Choose the Best First Day of School Printable Sign for Your Needs](#how-to-choose-the-best-first-day-of-school-printable-sign-for-your-needs)
- [Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Using Printable Signs](#common-pitfalls-to-avoid-when-using-printable-signs)
- [Advanced Tips for Experts: Elevating Your First Day Photos](#advanced-tips-for-experts-elevating-your-first-day-photos)
- [Conclusion: Cherish Every "First"](#conclusion-cherish-every-first)
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Classic & Timeless First Day of School Printable Signs
Sometimes, the best choice is the one that stands the test of time. Classic designs for a first day of school printable sign offer a clean, elegant, and universally appealing aesthetic that ensures your photos will look great for years to come, without feeling dated. These options focus on clear readability and traditional school-themed elements, making them perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and enduring charm.
1. Chalkboard Style: This is arguably the most popular classic design. It mimics the look of a traditional blackboard, often with white or colored "chalk" fonts. These signs typically include fields for "Grade," "Date," "Age," and sometimes "What I Want to Be When I Grow Up." They evoke a sense of nostalgia and schoolhouse charm.
2. Simple White Background with Bold Text: Clean, crisp, and highly readable, these signs feature a stark white background with bold, easy-to-read typography. They put the focus entirely on the information and your child, ensuring no distractions.
3. Schoolhouse Inspired Graphics: Think apples, pencils, rulers, globes, or even a tiny school bus graphic. These subtle, illustrative elements add a touch of classic school spirit without overwhelming the design. They remind everyone of the traditional school experience.
4. "My First Day Of..." with Grade Level: A straightforward and timeless phrase that clearly states the milestone. "My First Day of Kindergarten," "My First Day of 1st Grade," etc., making it immediately clear what the photo is commemorating.
5. Minimalist Typography Focus: For those who love modern simplicity, these signs rely solely on beautiful, well-chosen fonts. Different font weights and styles might be used to highlight key information like the grade level, creating a sophisticated yet timeless look.
6. Primary Colors Palette: Utilizing red, yellow, and blue – the classic primary colors – in the design gives a cheerful, youthful, and enduringly school-appropriate feel. This palette never goes out of style for children's themes.
7. Hand-Drawn Illustration Style: A classic look can also be achieved with illustrations that appear hand-drawn, giving the sign a warm, personal, and slightly whimsical touch, like something out of a favorite children's book.
8. "Year" Focused Signs: Some classic signs emphasize the academic year (e.g., "First Day of School 2024-2025") alongside the grade. This adds another layer of historical context to the photo.
9. Vertical Banner Style: Instead of a landscape or portrait sign, a long, narrow banner design can be a classic choice, allowing for a full-body shot of your child holding it, highlighting their growing height each year.
10. "All About Me" Simplicity: While customizable, a classic "All About Me" sign focuses on just a few key facts (name, age, grade, favorite color/food) presented in a simple, timeless layout, making it a wonderful yearly comparison.
11. Subtle Border Designs: A simple, elegant border, perhaps a single line or a subtle pattern like plaid or stripes, can frame the information beautifully without being distracting, adding a finished look to the first day of school printable sign.
12. Themed Icons for Each Grade: A very subtle, classic approach might involve using a tiny icon next to the grade, like a building block for preschool, a book for elementary, and a graduation cap for high school, tying the grades together visually over the years. This approach worked wonders for my neighbor, Sarah, who used a consistent set of icons across all her kids' signs, creating a beautiful visual progression over the years that truly showcased their journey.
Personalized & Customizable Printable Options
While classics are great, adding a personal touch makes your first day of school printable sign truly unique. Customizable options allow you to inject your child’s personality, their current interests, or even inside jokes into the design, making the photo even more special and reflective of who they are right now. This is where you can let your creativity shine and ensure the sign is a perfect fit for *your* family.
1. Editable PDF Templates: Many designers offer PDFs where you can simply type in your child's name, grade, date, and other details directly into the file before printing. This is the easiest way to personalize without any design software.
2. Canva or PicMonkey Templates: For those a bit more tech-savvy, templates on platforms like Canva allow for extensive customization. You can change fonts, colors, add clip art, upload your child's photo, or even change the background. This is my personal favorite because it gives you so much creative freedom! I once spent an evening with my daughter designing her sign together on Canva, letting her pick the colors and a tiny unicorn graphic, and it made her so much more excited for school.
3. "All About Me" Questionnaires: These printables include spaces for your child to fill in their favorite things (color, food, book, song), what they want to be when they grow up, what they’re excited about, and what they'll miss about summer. It captures their current interests and dreams.
4. Character or Hobby-Themed Personalization: If your child is obsessed with dinosaurs, outer space, or ballet, find a template that allows you to integrate these elements. You might add a small T-Rex graphic, a rocket ship, or ballet slippers.
5. Hand-Written Sections: Some printables offer blank spaces for your child to hand-write their name or age. This adds an authentic, personal touch and allows you to see their handwriting evolve over the years.
6. Family Name or Monogram Integration: Incorporate your family's last name or a custom monogram into the design, making it distinctly yours. This adds a sophisticated and personal brand to your annual photos.
7. School Mascot or Colors: If your child is enthusiastic about their school, customize the sign with their school's mascot or its official colors. This builds school spirit right from day one.
8. Inclusion of a Personal Quote or Motto: Add a small space for a favorite quote, a family motto, or a positive affirmation that resonates with your child or your family. It could be something simple like "Dream Big!" or "Kindness Matters."
9. Photo Placeholder: Design a sign with a designated spot where you can later tape or glue a small photo of your child from the previous year, showing their growth side-by-side.
10. "Goals for the Year" Section: A forward-looking twist, where your child (or you, on their behalf) can list one or two things they hope to achieve or learn this school year. This transforms the sign into a motivational tool.
11. Custom Illustrations of Your Child: For a truly unique and personalized touch, consider commissioning a small, simplified illustration of your child to incorporate into the design. It's an investment, but creates an unparalleled keepsake.
12. Interactive Elements: While still a printable, some designs might include a small "checkbox" for "I'm excited!" or "I'm nervous!" that your child can mark, adding a fun, interactive element to the first day of school printable sign itself.
Creative Themes Beyond the Basics
Tired of the same old apples and pencils? Let's get imaginative! Stepping outside the traditional school themes can make your first day of school printable sign truly stand out and reflect your family's unique flair. These creative themes add an unexpected twist and a dash of personality to your annual photos.
1. Superhero Academia: Design a sign that looks like a superhero comic book cover or a "Hero in Training" badge. Use bold fonts, comic book bubbles, and perhaps a small cape graphic. Imagine your little one striking a heroic pose!
2. Space Exploration: Blast off into a new school year with a galaxy-themed sign! Think planets, stars, rockets, and astronauts. "Future Astronaut, Grade X, Ready for Liftoff!" This theme is perfect for dreamers and explorers.
3. Fairy Tale/Fantasy Realm: For the magical thinkers, create a sign that looks like an enchanted scroll, a knight's shield, or a fairy's wing. Incorporate whimsical fonts and fantastical creatures.
4. Sports Star Rookie Card: Design the sign to resemble a vintage baseball or basketball rookie card, complete with a "stats" section for their age, height, and grade. "Future MVP, Class of [Year]!"
5. Adventure/Explorer Map: Make the sign look like a treasure map, with "X marks the spot" for their grade, or a compass guiding them to new knowledge. "Ready for a New Adventure!"
6. Video Game Level Up: For the gaming enthusiasts, design a sign that mimics a "Level Up!" screen from a classic video game, with pixelated fonts and retro graphics. "Level Up! Grade X Unlocked!" This is my absolute favorite, especially for older kids. My nephew, a huge gaming fan, absolutely lit up when I surprised him with a "Quest Log" themed sign for his 5th grade year. It was a total hit!
7. Hollywood Walk of Fame Star: Create a sign that looks like a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with their name, grade, and the current year. "Star Student, Class of [Year]."
8. Chef/Foodie Theme: If your child loves to cook or eat, a sign shaped like a cutting board, a recipe card, or featuring cute food illustrations can be adorable. "Recipe for Success: Grade X!"
9. Artist's Canvas/Palette: For the budding artists, design a sign that looks like a paint palette, a blank canvas, or features colorful paint splatters. "Creating My Masterpiece, Grade X."
10. Vintage Travel Poster: Evoke wanderlust with a sign styled like a vintage travel poster, inviting your child to "Explore New Worlds" (of knowledge) in their new grade. Use classic travel fonts and iconic landmarks.
11. Botanical/Nature Inspired: A serene and beautiful option, using natural elements like leaves, flowers, or woodland creatures. This theme is calming and connects the learning journey to growth in nature.
12. Newspaper Front Page: Design the first day of school printable sign to look like the front page of a newspaper, with the headline "Local Student Begins New Academic Year!" and sections for their age and grade. This is a unique way to capture the "news" of the day.
Signs for Every Age & Stage: From Preschool to High School
The journey from tiny tot to towering teen is vast, and a first day of school printable sign should reflect that growth. What works for a sweet preschooler won't necessarily resonate with a cool high schooler. Tailoring the sign to their specific age and developmental stage ensures it feels authentic and exciting for them.
### Preschool & Kindergarten
1. Whimsical & Playful: Bright colors, simple shapes, and cute animal characters or friendly monsters. Keep the text minimal and large.
2. "My First Day Of..." with Character Focus: Often features beloved cartoon characters or generic cute animals that are popular with this age group.
3. Large Font for Little Learners: Use very large, clear, and simple fonts that are easy for young eyes (and eventually, for them to read themselves!).
4. Interactive Elements (Simple): Maybe a space for their handprint or a simple drawing.
5. Focus on Fun: Emphasize "fun," "play," and "friends" rather than academic achievements.
### Elementary School (Grades 1-5)
1. "All About Me" Boards: More detailed questionnaires about their favorite subjects, teachers, friends, and what they hope to learn.
2. Themed to Current Interests: Integrate popular themes like superheroes, princesses, outer space, or sports, which they are deeply engaged with at this age.
3. Colorful & Dynamic: Use vibrant colors, playful patterns, and perhaps some subtle motion lines or starbursts to show energy.
4. Space for Self-Expression: A small blank area where they can write their name, draw a picture, or put a sticker.
5. Humorous Elements: A silly quote or a playful graphic that appeals to their developing sense of humor. I remember my son's 3rd-grade sign had a cartoon monster saying "I'm ready to learn... and maybe eat some homework!" It always gets a chuckle when we look back.
### Middle School (Grades 6-8)
1. Sleeker & Cooler Designs: Move away from overly childish graphics. Think more graphic design, less cartoon.
2. Emphasis on Independence: Phrases like "Ready for New Challenges," "On My Way," or "Leveling Up."
3. Minimalist or Edgy Fonts: Consider more stylized fonts, perhaps with a slightly industrial or abstract feel.
4. "Goals" Section: A more mature space for them to articulate their academic or personal goals for the year.
5. Subtle Pop Culture References: If appropriate and timeless enough, a subtle nod to a popular movie, game, or music trend they enjoy.
### High School (Grades 9-12)
1. Sophisticated & Clean: Very clean lines, elegant typography, and subdued color palettes. Avoid anything that feels "cutesy."
2. Focus on Future & Growth: "Future [Profession]," "Class of [Graduation Year]," "Building My Future."
3. Monochromatic or School Colors: Using school colors or a sophisticated monochromatic scheme adds a mature and cohesive look.
4. Quote-Focused Signs: A powerful or inspiring quote about learning, success, or the future, paired with their grade.
5. "Last First Day" or "Senior Year" Specifics: For those pivotal years, specialized signs that mark the significance of the moment, perhaps with a graduation cap graphic or a bold "Senior" declaration. Trust me, even the most reluctant teen will appreciate a cool, understated sign for their senior year. My daughter, who usually rolls her eyes at anything "mom-made," actually *asked* for a minimalist, black-and-white "Senior '25" sign, and it's become one of her favorite photos.
DIY & Crafty Printable Sign Ideas
For those who love to get hands-on, a printable sign doesn't have to be just a printout. It can be the foundation for a fantastic DIY project! These ideas leverage the ease of a printable while adding tactile, creative elements that make your first day of school printable sign truly unique and memorable.
1. Print & Embellish: Print a simple, minimalist sign and then let your child go wild with glitter, stickers, googly eyes, sequins, or puffy paint. This adds texture and a personal, crafty touch.
2. Chalkboard Paint Backing: Print your sign onto a piece of paper, then glue it onto a small piece of wood or cardboard that you've painted with chalkboard paint. You can write the date or a message on the "chalkboard" part.
3. Frame It for a Reusable Prop: Print your sign and place it in a picture frame (without the glass or with non-reflective glass). You can then write on the glass with a dry-erase marker for the date or notes, making the sign reusable year after year.
4. Layered Paper Crafts: Print different elements of the sign (e.g., the grade, the name, a small icon) on separate sheets of colored cardstock. Cut them out and layer them with foam adhesive dots for a 3D effect.
5. Fabric or Felt Appliqué: Print a template of a shape (like an apple or a pencil) and use it as a stencil to cut out fabric or felt pieces. Glue these onto a plain printed sign for a soft, tactile dimension.
6. Glitter Glue Outlines: Print a design with bold outlines, then trace those lines with glitter glue for a sparkling, eye-catching effect that catches the light in photos.
7. Ribbon or Yarn Accents: Punch holes along the edges of your printed sign and weave colorful ribbons or yarn through them to create a festive border. You could even tie small bows.
8. Popsicle Stick Frame: Print a smaller sign, then glue popsicle sticks around the border to create a rustic, handmade frame. You can paint or decorate the sticks.
9. Laminated & Reusable: Print your chosen design and laminate it. Then, use dry-erase markers to fill in the changing details each year. This is a brilliant eco-friendly solution and saves time in the long run. I did this one year, and it was a game-changer for subsequent first days; no more scrambling for new printables!
10. Magnet Board Integration: Print smaller elements of your sign (e.g., separate numbers for the grade, "My First Day Of" heading) and attach magnets to the back. Then arrange them on a small magnetic whiteboard or metal sheet, allowing for endless customization year after year.
11. Cut-Out Photo Booth Prop: Enlarge your first day of school printable sign and mount it on foam core. Cut out a hole where your child's face would go, turning it into a fun photo booth prop.
12. Scrapbook Paper Backing: Glue your printed sign onto a piece of decorative scrapbook paper that complements the design. This adds a beautiful patterned border and extra sturdiness.
Photography Tips & Tricks with Your Printable Sign
The first day of school printable sign is a prop, but the real magic is in the photo itself. Getting that perfect shot requires a little planning and some simple photography know-how. These tips will help you capture the moment beautifully, ensuring your child (and their sign!) looks their best.
1. Choose Your Location Wisely:
- Good Lighting is Key: Natural light is always best. Position your child facing a window or outdoors in open shade (under a tree, on a porch) to avoid harsh shadows and squinting. Avoid direct, overhead midday sun.
- Decluttered Background: A plain wall, a simple bush, or your front door makes for a clean background that keeps the focus on your child and their sign. Avoid busy backgrounds that distract.
- Consistent Spot: If you want to create a yearly progression, try to take the photo in the same spot each year. This really highlights their growth. I've been taking my kids' photos in front of our oak tree since kindergarten, and it's incredible to see them grow taller than the sign, then taller than the tree itself!
2. Hold the Sign Correctly:
- Two Hands are Better: Encourage your child to hold the sign with two hands, either at their chest level or slightly lower, so it's clearly visible.
- Straight and Centered: Make sure the sign isn't tilted or obscured by their backpack or arms.
- Consider a Stand/Easel: For younger children, a small table easel or even taping the sign to a wall at their height can ensure it's straight and doesn't get crumpled.
3. Get Down to Their Level:
- Eye-Level Shots: Kneel or crouch down so your camera is at your child's eye level. This creates a more engaging and intimate portrait.
- Vary Your Angle: Take some full-body shots, some waist-up, and some close-ups of them holding the sign.
4. Embrace Natural Expressions:
- Don't Force Smiles: While a happy smile is great, don't force it. Capture their genuine excitement, nervousness, or even a silly face.
- Engage Them: Talk to them, ask them about their day, tell a joke to elicit a natural reaction. "What's the funniest thing you think will happen today?"
- Multiple Shots: Take lots of photos! The more you take, the better your chances of getting that perfect, authentic moment.
5. Mind the Details:
- Check for Glare: If your sign is laminated or in a frame, check for glare from windows or lights. Adjust your position slightly.
- Backpack & Outfit: Make sure their backpack isn't obscuring the sign and their outfit is neat.
- Clean Sign: Ensure the sign itself is clean and free of smudges or creases before the photo.
6. Consider Props (Beyond the Sign):
- Backpack & Lunchbox: Have them wear their new backpack or hold their lunchbox.
- First Day Outfit: If they have a special first day outfit, make sure it's visible.
- School Supplies: A new pencil, a crayon box, or a book can add to the theme.
7. Use Burst Mode: On your phone or camera, use burst mode (holding down the shutter button) to capture a series of shots. This is fantastic for active kids, allowing you to pick the best one later.
8. Review As You Go: Take a quick look at your photos on your camera/phone screen as you're shooting to make sure the sign is readable, the lighting is good, and your child is in focus. Trust me, you don't want to realize later that the sign was blurry or half-obscured!
9. Golden Hour Magic: If you're taking photos the day *before* school, consider shooting during the "golden hour" (the hour after sunrise or before sunset). The soft, warm light is incredibly flattering and can make your photos glow.
10. "Before & After" Shots: Take a photo with the first day of school printable sign and then another on the *last* day of school with a "Last Day of School" sign. This side-by-side comparison is a powerful visual of their growth.
11. Incorporate Siblings: If you have multiple children, take individual shots, but also a group photo with all their signs. The chaos is part of the charm!
12. Don't Overthink It: Ultimately, these are cherished memories. Don't let the pursuit of perfection overshadow the joy of the moment. Capture the authenticity, even if it's a little messy.
Eco-Friendly & Reusable Printable Solutions
In an age where sustainability is increasingly important, thinking about how your first day of school printable sign impacts the environment is a thoughtful step. You can still create beautiful, memorable signs while minimizing waste. Here are some eco-conscious and reusable approaches.
1. Laminate for Longevity: Print your chosen sign on sturdy cardstock and then laminate it. This protects the sign from wear and tear, spills, and creases, allowing you to use it year after year. You can write the specific details (grade, date) with a dry-erase marker and simply wipe them off for the next year. This is my personal go-to for its sheer convenience and sustainability.
2. Digital Display on a Tablet or Laptop: Instead of printing, display your customized sign on a tablet, laptop, or even a large smart TV screen. Your child can hold the device, and the photo will capture the vibrant digital design. This eliminates paper and ink entirely.
3. Chalkboard or Whiteboard as the Base: Print out individual letters, numbers, or decorative elements of your sign, cut them out, and use them as stencils or templates to draw directly onto a reusable chalkboard or whiteboard. You can then add the changeable details with chalk or dry-erase markers.
4. Reusable Frame with Interchangeable Inserts: Invest in a nice picture frame. Print core design elements (e.g., "My First Day Of...") on one insert, and then print separate small inserts for the grade level and year. You can swap these out annually.
5. Use Recycled Paper/Cardstock: If you are printing, choose paper made from recycled content. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure sustainable sourcing.
6. Print in Draft Mode or Black & White: For practice prints or signs that will be heavily embellished, print in draft mode or black and white to conserve ink.
7. Digital Scrapbooking/Collage: Instead of a physical sign, create a digital "first day" graphic using design software. You can then digitally insert your child's photo into this graphic, creating a beautiful digital keepsake that uses no physical resources.
8. Fabric Banner with Iron-On Printables: Print your design onto iron-on transfer paper, then iron it onto a plain fabric banner. This creates a durable, reusable banner that can be rolled up and stored. You can use fabric markers to add changeable details each year.
9. Repurpose Old Cardboard: Instead of buying new cardstock, glue your printed sign onto a piece of repurposed cardboard (from a shipping box, cereal box, etc.) for added rigidity.
10. Minimalist Design to Conserve Ink: Choose designs with less heavy ink coverage. Simple black and white, or designs with lots of white space, use less ink and contribute to a more eco-friendly print.
11. "Print-Free" Chalkboard Photo Prop: While not a printable in the traditional sense, you can invest in a dedicated, reusable chalkboard or whiteboard photo prop. These often come with sections for grade, date, and interests, and you simply write on them each year. This is what I eventually transitioned to after years of printing, and it feels great to reduce paper waste!
12. Share & Swap: If you're part of a community group or have friends with kids of similar ages, consider printing one versatile first day of school printable sign template and sharing it. You can then each customize the details digitally before printing.
Last-Minute Lifesavers: Quick Printables for Busy Mornings
We've all been there: the alarm didn't go off, the toast burned, and suddenly, the bus is due in five minutes. In the chaos of the first day, the last thing you need is a complicated sign. These quick and easy first day of school printable sign ideas are designed for maximum impact with minimum effort, perfect for those "oops, I forgot!" moments.
1. "Just the Grade" Sign: The absolute simplest. A sign that just says "Kindergarten," "1st Grade," etc., in a clear, bold font. No frills, just the essential information.
2. Black and White Simplicity: No need to worry about color ink. A clean black and white design is always in style and prints quickly.
3. Pre-filled Templates: Look for printables where all you have to do is write in the date or your child's name with a marker. The grade is often pre-printed.
4. "Print & Go" PDFs: Many designers offer non-editable PDFs where you simply select the correct grade, print it, and you're done. No fuss, no customization.
5. Minimalist Text-Only Designs: These signs feature just the essential text ("First Day of Grade X") with no graphics or complex layouts. They're quick to download and print.
6. "Hello [Grade]!" Sign: A cheerful and straightforward message. It's welcoming and requires very little design effort, focusing purely on the exciting new chapter.
7. One-Page "All About Me" Bullet Points: Instead of a complex questionnaire, a simple sign with 3-4 bullet points (e.g., "Age:", "Grade:", "Favorite Color:") that you can quickly fill in.
8. **Basic Chalkboard Background with