If you’ve been wondering how to use chalk paint and what the big deal is, this is the guide for you!
There are a lot of things in life that make me feel like I’m “late to the party.” I’m not actually late to a party, or anything, ever, but I am usually behind on most trends. Baby-Wearing; Riley Kate (and my arms) thanks you! Pinterest; I’m sorry for ignoring you for so long. Dry Shampoo; thanks for making me feel more fabulous and less greasy. Athleisure (Activewear EVERYWHERE!); you’re my bestie. Twitter and SnapChat; umm, nevermind…we just don’t jive. But really and truly my newest love is CHALK PAINT.
It seems like for awhile everyone was all “ehh chalk paint…” “…look what I made with my chalk paint…” “…meh-shmeh chalk paint is the best…” (read all of that in a mocking voice š¤). But guys, they weren’t making it up! Things are usually trendy for a reason!
Before We Paint
I had been holding on to this little cabinet since we moved into our new house (about 9 months) and wanted to give it a face lift! Here’s my before:
Not too bad, right? I’m not a huge fan of the painted flowers (no offense to whoever painted them), but I like the shape and size. It also has a little brother, about 1/4 of its size and only with one drawer.
I knew I wanted to add a splash of color to the wall it sits on and kept imaging a blueish gray. So, off to the store I went!
Ask The Chalk-Painting Experts
(This post may contain affiliate links)
We have an amazing little store in Sebring called The Grateful Hearts. It’s part gift shop, part DIY studio, part boutique and all awesome. I had done some shopping there previously, and knew they could help me on my chalk painting quest! They introduced me to Dixie Belle chalk paint and showed me all of the color samples painted on wooden spoons (good idea, right?!). It didn’t take me long to pick my color…Antebellum Blue š
I absolutely love this gorgeous dark teal color.
Confession: I had totally planned to take pictures along the way so that I could show you what each step looked like, but, I got so excited about how it was turning out that I totally forgot to document all of that š. Sorry š¤·š¼āāļø.
The How To: Chalk Paint for Beginners
Even though I don’t have pictures, here’s what you need to know…
Materials:
- Dixie Belle Paint Company Chalk Paint (color of your choice)
- Dixie Belle Paint Company Gator Hide (a protective and finishing layer)
- Dusting Rag
- Paint Brush
- Cup of Water
- Small Sponge
- Paint Tray (AKA a paper plate if you’re fancy like me)
Painting with Chalk Paint
- Remove all hardware.
- Clean out all drawers/cabinets and give your project a good dusting.
- Slap a quick layer of chalk paint mixed with a little water on your project. Literally, the word she used was “slap.” Don’t worry about covering every bit or making it even. Just slap it on! This layer acts as more of a primer for the following layers.
- To include the water, I dipped my brush in water and very loosely removed the excess before dipping in the chalk paint.
- Let dry. Chalk paint dries very quickly. You may even be able to immediately circle back to where you first began painting while the latter parts dry.
- Apply a second coat. Do a good job on this one. Cover each surface evenly and completely.
- Let dry and add a third coat (if necessary).
Finishing Your Chalk Paint Project
*IMPORTANT* Your project must be completely dry before applying Gator Hide. Gator Hide acts as a lacquer and will protect your project while allowing you to dust it. Hooray!
- Pour a small amount of Gator Hide into a tray. Dip one side of the sponge into the Gator Hide and gently remove the excess. To apply, brush the sponge on the project similarly to the pattern below. Start in the middle, go to the right edge, over the middle, and finish at the left edge. **This will help to minimize the brush stroke appearance.**
- Continue applying the first coat of Gator Hide. Make sure that you have plenty of Gator Hide on your sponge at all times. Otherwise, it will start to peel up and “pill” what has already been put down.
- Apply 2-3 more coats as needed. Ensure that the project is completely dry before applying another layer. This step will make sure that you get a smooth finish with all of your chalk paint projects.
- Reinstall hardware, or, replace entirely!
- PROJECT COMPLETE!!!
For some extra “umph,” I chose to replace the hardware on my project and am so glad that I did! I found these for under $4/each at Hobby Lobby , but you could also try your local hardware store or other online retailers.
Pros and Cons of Chalk Paint
Pros
Good news should always come first, right? Overall, I would say that Dixie Belle chalk paint is the quickest and easiest method I’ve used to re-vamp furniture. Definitely the best end-result!
Why should you use chalk paint vs regular paint?
- Provides a no-primer painting alternative
- Easy to apply
- Comes in a wide variety of colors
- Dries quickly and evenly
- Looks professionally painted
- Cleans up with soap and water š
Cons
The only downside to chalk paint is the cost (wah-wah-wahhh). Using chalk paint over other paints will be a little bit more expensive. However, you will need less paint than other methods.
Chalk Paint Furniture Before and After
I love comparing pictures to really get an amazing chalk paint before and after perspective. This little cabinet has a whole new life!
It seems like whenever I finish one project, I’m already searching for the next one to tackle. We’ve been watching a lot of the Magic School Bus at our house lately, and like Ms. Frizzle always says…”Take Chances. Make Mistakes. Get Messy!”
What should I renovate with chalk paint next?!
Other Beginner Chalk Paint Projects
For other project ideas and inspiration, check out this video by Ken’s Beautiful Crazy life!
I love how simple his projects are, but still look amazing and hang-worthy!
What are your ideas for using chalk paint? Decor or furniture?
Do I have to first scrap the previous paint to start the chalk paint ?
Is this paint easily available?
I lightly sanded to remove the previous furniture stain, but one of the perks of chalk paint is that you don’t *have* to do this. You can find chalk paint in hardware, home improvement, or craft stores (and even online) š
Can I use chalk paint on kitchen cabinets?
Yes, my mother-in-law had a lot of success painting hers with chalkpaint. It may take several coats and finding out if a roller, brush, sponge achieves the look you are hoping for. You may also want to consider using a water-resistant topcoat (Gatorhide, polyurethane) for cleaning purposes. Good luck with your project!