What Is So Great About Chalk Paint

Painting furniture with chalk paint is a very popular method of changing the look of old or worn-out pieces. But what is so great about chalk paint exactly, and why has it become the go-to paint choice? And how does it compare to these other types of paint for furniture?

So, let’s explore the benefits and advantages of using chalk paint on furniture, and we’ll share tips and tricks on how to use it properly and effectively for your own DIY projects. Let’s dive in!

If you’ve decided to update your furniture, you’ll probably start checking out paint options, and there are plenty out there. Chalk paint will most likely be one of the options you come across, but why should you choose it?

When deciding on paint, think about the finish you want, how easy it is to apply, and how durable it needs to be. Picking the right color is key, too – you’ll want something that works with your current decor or helps you create a whole new look.

So we go back to chalk paint – let’s learn why pros and DIYers alike keep using it and loving it for their furniture makeovers. We personally use chalk paint a lot, so we’re excited to share the reasons why with you!

Chalk Paint Features

Let’s learn what chalk paint is first! It’s a water based paint that has been around for centuries and is made from chalk, pigment, and binder. Due to its unique formula, it gives furniture a chalky finish when dry.

This chalky texture and appearance make it perfect for creating a distressed and vintage look on your furniture. It comes in various colors – here are the most popular chalk paint colors for furniture – and it’s even low VOC, meaning it is environmentally friendly and safe to use indoors.

Our post on what is chalk paint? has more details on the features of this paint. Now, let’s get into what makes it so great!

Why Use Chalk Paint for Furniture

So, why should you choose chalk paint for your furniture? First off, it’s perfect for beginners. With its easy application and quick drying time, anyone can use it to transform their furniture without having prior painting experience.

You can apply it with any brush or roller, which are very accessible and affordable. But if you’re after a smoother, less textured finish, check out these best chalk paint brushes and best rollers for painting furniture to get the job done!

But can you use chalk paint in a sprayer? Yes, you can! This way, you can cover larger surfaces in a shorter amount of time and get a smooth, professional looking finish.

It has a matte, chalky finish that’s easy to distress, so if you’re into that vintage, shabby chic look, chalk paint is the way to go. You can also do a solid finish if you prefer a modern look since it’s a thick paint that covers well.

There are both affordable and high-end options available, so you can pick your chalk paint based on your budget and needs. You can even make your own to save and customize your desired color. Here’s our homemade chalk paint recipe you can easily follow!

How to Make Chalk Paint More Durable

So we’ve talked about the greatness of chalk paint, but how can we make it even greater? Some paint brands say you don’t have to do much prep work when using this paint, but from our experience, a little extra prep goes a long way.

We recommend sanding and priming your furniture before painting with chalk paint. This will help the paint adhere better and create a smoother finish. You can use these best primer for chalk paint recommendations.

And chalk paint is not self leveling, so expect some brush or roller marks. As we mentioned above, you can use high quality brushes and rollers to minimize them, or use a paint sprayer! Here are the best paint sprayer for chalk paint options if you’re ready to invest in one!

Another thing to keep in mind is that while chalk paint has a beautiful matte finish, it does need to be topcoated for durability and easy cleaning. Here’s how to seal chalk paint to learn your topcoat options and tips on applying it. And don’t worry, this won’t take away from the unique texture and look of chalk paint – it will only enhance it and protect your furniture.

Check out our beginner’s guide on how to chalk paint furniture for the steps to properly prep, paint, and seal your furniture with chalk paint. We also cover more of the common chalk painting mistakes to avoid here, so read up before starting your project!

Comparison to Other Paints

But how does chalk paint compare to other types of paint? Let’s start with latex paint. While latex paint is also water based and can be used for furniture, it doesn’t stick as well as chalk paint. That’s why we turn it into chalk paint with these best chalk paint recipes. Learn more on what is the difference between chalk paint and regular paint here.

If you’re considering chalk paint vs milk paint, both are great with chippy or rustic looks. Both also need to be topcoated for protection and durability. However, chalk paint offers more versatility with its ability to create both solid and distressed finishes, while milk paint has a more natural chippy effect. Check out our milk paint vs chalk paint post here for a more in depth comparison!

So, what is so great about chalk paint? Well, it’s super easy to use, great for beginners, eco-friendly, and really versatile. With good prep and a good topcoat, you can get pro results with this one. Try it out on your next furniture project and see for yourself how great chalk paint can be!

More painting furniture Tips

• How To Keep Chalk Paint From Scratching
• Is Chalk Paint Durable for Kitchen Table
• Layering Chalk Paint
• How To Fix Lumpy Chalk Paint
• Beyond Paint VS Chalk Paint

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