Best Topcoat For Chalk Paint

When recreating these chalk paint furniture ideas, you want to make sure your finished piece will not only look beautiful but also last. That’s why you need to seal it with the best topcoat for chalk paint. A good topcoat will not only protect your furniture from wear and tear but also enhance the color and finish of your chalk painted piece.

Check out our top picks for topcoat for chalk painted furniture, so you can confidently complete your next DIY project and create stunning pieces for your home.

Chalk paint is water based, matte, and chalky, as you can tell from its name. This unique type of paint creates a beautiful, vintage looking finish that works well with a variety of decor styles from shabby chic to farmhouse.

But the porous nature of chalk paint also means that it is not resistant to water, can easily get dirty, and can be prone to scratches and stains. So you have to seal it with a topcoat to protect your newly painted furniture and keep the chalk paint looking its best for years to come.

So don’t skip this important step in your chalk painting process! Now keep reading to discover the best topcoat options for chalk paint and decide which one to get for your next furniture makeover project.

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Best Topcoats For Chalk Paint

For sealing chalk paint, water based polyurethane or polycrylic is definitely the way to go! This clear topcoat provides a durable finish that protects your furniture from scratches, stains, and wear, and you can apply it with a brush, sprayer, or spray can, whichever is most comfortable for you.

It dries quickly – you can easily recoat in just 2 hours – and it doesn’t yellow over time, unlike the oil based version. You can also change the natural matte sheen of chalk paint by choosing from a range of finishes, such as gloss, satin, or semi-gloss.

But keep in mind that polycrylic may not be as durable as oil based polyurethane, especially for high traffic areas. And water based poly can be streaky if you apply it by hand, so if you can, apply it with a sprayer for a flawless finish. Here’s how to spray polyurethane if you’re new to it.

Now let’s check out our polycrylic recommendations for chalk paint!

Varathane Waterbased Polyurethane

First and top of our list is Varathane Water based Polyurethane. This is definitely our go-to option for sealing chalk paint furniture and for good reason. We’ve used it in most of our furniture makeovers and have never been disappointed.

This product gives chalk painted pieces the durable, long lasting protection they need, including being moisture resistant. It also has little to no odor, so indoor projects are no problem. And again, polycrylic doesn’t cause any yellowing, so your chalk paint color should stay vibrant and true.

You can apply Varathane Water based Polyurethane with a brush, foam sponge, or paint sprayer, so it’s versatile and easy to work with. It also comes in a range of finishes, and we usually go for the satin sheen as it gives just enough subtle shine without being too glossy.

And we honestly can’t think of any cons for Varathane Water based Polyurethane. So if you’re looking for a reliable, durable topcoat for your chalk paint furniture, we highly recommend giving this one a try!

Minwax Polycrylic Spray

If you’re looking for the easiest and fastest way to topcoat chalk painted furniture, then you have to check out Minwax Polycrylic Spray. It’s a topcoat in a spray can version so you don’t have to prepare other tools and you can just use it straight from the can. This makes it perfect if you’re working on a small project or if you’re short on time.

But don’t let the convenience fool you, this spray topcoat is the best spray polyurethane, with its durable finish, quick drying time, and easy application. It sprays in a fine mist without splattering, so you can get a smooth and even finish without any hassle.

Minwax Polycrylic Spray is water based, so it’s easy to clean up and doesn’t have a strong odor, so you can use it indoors comfortably. Similar to Varathane Water based Polyurethane, it also comes in different finishes, so you can choose the sheen you want based on the look you’re going for.

While you can use it inside, make sure to protect the surfaces around where you’re spraying and work in a well ventilated area to avoid any potential fumes. Overall, if you want a topcoat that’s effortless to use and delivers great results, grab a can of Minwax Polycrylic Spray! Our post on Minwax Polycrylic Spray details its features and has more tips and tricks for using this product effectively.

Waterbased Polyurethane vs Oil Based Polyurethane

You may be curious about oil based polyurethane and if you can use it as a topcoat for your chalk painted furniture. So we’ll break down how it compares to the water based version!

Oil based polyurethane is known for its durability, making it a popular choice for high traffic pieces. It is more durable than water based polyurethane, but polycrylic is still durable enough for painted furniture, so you can be assured your chalk paint is well protected.

The oil based version also has a stronger odor and takes longer to dry compared to polycrylic. These are important factors to consider, especially if you’re working on indoor projects or want a quick turnaround time.

Plus, oil based poly can tint light paint colors with a yellow hue, so if your chalk paint color is on the lighter side, it’s best to avoid this topcoat option. We have a detailed polycrylic vs polyurethane comparison post here, so if you still want to explore your options or are torn between the two, check it out for more information.

Again, don’t skip applying a topcoat over your chalk painted piece! It may seem like an extra step, but it’s necessary for proper protection and longevity of your furniture. Our top recommendations are Varathane Waterbased Polyurethane and Minwax Polycrylic Spray, both water based options that provide a durable finish without any yellowing over time.

And you can always consider the oil based polyurethane if you prefer its higher durability, but keep in mind it takes longer to dry, has a stronger smell, and might tint light paint colors.

More Painting Furniture Tips

• Best Clear Polyurethane Spray For Wood
• Polyurethane VS Polycrylic For Dining Table
• How to Spray Water Based Topcoat
• Best Primer For Chalk Paint
• Best Chalk Paint For Laminate Furniture

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