The Use Of Chalk Paint For Home Improvement Projects
While searching social media’s DIY sections, you’ll undoubtedly find many different ideas using chalk paint to give furnishings a lovely, weathered look. Despite the fact that this specialized paint is well-liked, there are some misunderstandings regarding what it is and how it is applied. But don’t worry, because we will walk you through everything.
Here is all the information you need regarding chalk-style paint.
What Is Chalk Paint?
Due to social platforms like Pinterest, chalk paint has gained enormous popularity, but you might be asking what makes it unique from regular paint. The smooth, ultra-matte surface of chalk-style paint makes it easy to identify. As you may already know, the term comes from how it looks like a chalk-covered surface. Since this paint is latex-based, it may be cleaned up with water rather than mineral spirits and has a tendency to be thicker and more workable than ordinary paint.
Despite having a similar name, chalk paint is different from chalkboard paint, a well-liked specialty item that transforms any surface into a chalkboard so that you may write with chalk and then quickly erase it. Nevertheless, chalk paint is more like conventional wall paint but with a distinct texture.
The Distinction Between Chalk Paint And Other Traditional Paints
In addition to having a matte feel, chalk paint varies from standard paints in many ways. One advantage is that it doesn’t need any preparation—you can paint directly over the bulk of cleaned, dried surfaces, even ones that you have already painted on, except for metallic or shiny laminate.
Since chalk paint applies easily over several coats of paint, DIYers prefer its application on old items with splits or plenty of embellishments. Moreover, chalk paint is less prone to drip than standard paint due to its thickness.
And last but not least, you may cleanse the paintbrush without using mineral spirits by using soap and water because chalk paint is 100% water-based.
How To Utilize Chalk Paint?
Although chalk paint’s most frequent use is to give the furniture a matte finish, you may utilize it to coat an entire room if you genuinely like the appearance. It may even give your dining room table a retro feel or transform a dresser into a focal point for a bedroom. The best part is that you don’t have to bother about removing previous paint layers before repainting an item of furnishing.
However, if you like a smooth finish, you might want to gently sand the item and then clean it with a soft cloth before applying the chalk paint. Depending on what shade the dresser or chair was to begin with and how thick and solid this sort of paint is reputed to be, you might only need one layer. But if not, two coats should be more than enough.
Tips For Using Chalk Paint
Try Applying Thinner Coats
It’s advisable to apply chalk paint in several coats because of its thick composition. The outcome of thick layers could be irregular and pockmarked.
Go For A Poly-Based Top Coat
Although the surface layer for chalk paint is often wax, you might want to try a matte polyurethane finish. Even though part of the smooth texture may get lost, the paint’s top layer will be much firmer.
Two-Color Distress Is The Way To Go
According to past users, employing the two-color distress technique will add depth. You may softly sand off one coat of chalk paint to expose the wood. However, if you have two distinct colors, a light sanding in strategic spots reveals the undercoat. You may add even more depth by making the lower coat darker than the top layer.
Try Out Different Brushes
Different brushes lead to many different outcomes. A smooth appearance with minimal paintbrush markings may be achievable with a soft-bristle nylon or polyester brush. On the other hand, heavy brush marks will are obtainable with a chip brush for a more aged appearance.
Sand The Contact Areas For A More Genuine Look
Gently sand contact areas on woodwork to imitate worn marks for an even more authentic vintage effect. And in the case of chairs, sanding the edges of the seat, back, and arms is advisable.
The Durability Of Chalk Paint
One of the most often asked questions is whether chalk paint is sturdy enough to be used in high-use areas. In a nutshell, the answer is yes, but only if you try and seal it appropriately. Soft wax is advisable to protect the paintwork, and you might want to use two or three layers on tables and other high-usage areas. Nevertheless, make sure to give the wax time to thoroughly set between different coatings.
If you follow these measures, the chalk paint will customarily remain attractive for several years, but if it starts to look worn out, you can always re-wax the surfaces. As a decent substitute, you may even seal the chalk paint with varnish, and many people say that this technique improves longevity. However, keep in mind that this can detract from the matte appearance.
How Long Does Chalk Paint Last?
Repurposing old paint is a fun way to be environmentally conscious and save money on your upcoming DIY project. But does the stored-away paint languish over time?
Test and ensure your chalk paint hasn’t deteriorated while it’s been in storage before starting a project. You shouldn’t just pick a can of paint off the rack and start painting without first giving it a thorough look because carelessly stored paint can degrade or be more likely to flake.
When preserved appropriately, chalk paint can survive for one to five years, but if left out in the open, it will dry up much more quickly. But if you want to use your chalk paint again after it has significantly thickened since your previous usage, you can dilute it with water.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many different ways you can use chalk paint around the house. And since you now know the dos and don’ts, grab that bucket of chalk paint and get started on your next home improvement project!
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