Anyone can paint a piece of furniture, but not all paint is equal, and not all finishes create the desired effect. If you want to transform an old, or mass-produced item of furniture into a unique and rustic looking piece, then you need to understand the magic of chalk effect paint.
What is Chalk Effect Paint and why is it so Popular?
Chalk effect paint is extremely popular for those wanting to turn their hand to a little furniture upcycling and adding a new look to old and worn furniture. Chalk effect paints are ultra-matte finish paints that are designed to create a distinctive chalky, or even distressed look on a variety of different surfaces, and adhere to a wide range of materials including walls, timber and metal.
Most chalk effect paints are self-priming and require very little preparation, making them quick and simple to use. Imagine being able to completely transform a tabletop or chest of drawers without having to do any (or very minimal) sanding or waiting for primer to dry.
Chalk effect paint is such a user-friendly option that anyone can become creative with it and being able to develop so many different effects has made it a very popular pastime for many.
Understanding the Different Chalk Effect Paint Finishes: From Matte to Distressed
Chalk effect paint, with its ultra-matte finish, dries to a give a soft, luxurious texture with a minimal sheen. The paint soaks up light, which emphasises the depth of colour, making it an ideal surface to work with if you are wanting to create a more distressed, or vintage feel.
The matte finish makes the paint easy to sand, and by strategically sanding through layers of paint you can create that vintage look in a matter of hours instead of years.
Paint can be applied in a thick base coat, with a thinner coat of a different colour on top. Gentle sanding once the paint is dried will reveal the underneath colour creating that illusion of aged furniture.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Finish
- No Finish: For items that don't experience much wear and tear, like picture frames, this natural matte state will preserve that classic chalky, flat look.
- Wax Finish: A traditional finish for chalk effect paints, waxing the end result creates a soft, and slightly luminous look that provides a velvety texture while enhancing the paint's colour. Waxing also helps to seal the paint offering a water-resistant layer. Wax can be clear or coloured, depending on the effect you are looking for.
- Varnish Finish: Ideal for high-traffic items like dining tables, varnishes come in a variety of finishes from matte to glossy to match your desired look and provide a durable topcoat that can be water-based or oil-based.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Gilly's Chalk Effects Paint
- Ensure the item or piece of furniture is clean by wiping with a damp cloth or washing with a mild cleanser to remove any grease.
- Remove any hardware from furniture, like handles or knobs.
- Thoroughly stir your chosen chalk effect paint to ensure it is mixed properly with a smooth consistency.
- Apply the first coat of paint with a good paintbrush in thin, even layers and spread the paint in different directions across the surface.
- Once the first coat is touch-dry (this can take up to a few hours) apply the second coat.
- Once the paint is completely dry, lightly sand the paint for the desired effect.
- Wipe away the dust using a clean, damp cloth.
- Apply your topcoat. For a wax finish use a brush or lint-free cloth to cover the paint in a thin layer of wax and wipe away any excess wax, then allow to dry.
Protecting Your Painted Furniture: Waxes, Sealers, Topcoats
Which topcoat you choose to apply to your furniture will depend on what use it has, and what effect you want to achieve. Surfaces with a high daily use may be better suited to a more durable finish while waxes offer a more traditional look for furniture with low to medium wear.
Sealers like Gilly's Pure Tung Oil, which is extracted from the seeds of the Tung tree, is ideal for timber treatments where water repellence is required. It is food safe making it ideal for chopping blocks and kitchen utensils.
As with waxes, oils and sealers will require maintenance to keep the furniture or surfaces protected and looking their best.
Get Inspired For Your Next DIY Project Using Chalk Effect Paint
Chalk effect paint can really get your creative juices flowing, and because it is easy and simple to use just about anyone can have a go. Give your old, tired furniture a new lease of life and create some really unique looks that show off your creativity and personality.
- Transform your kitchen and give it a completely new look or colour-scheme by revamping kitchen cabinets and doors.
- You can even take on interior or exterior doors in your home giving them a rustic, vintage or modern look depending on the style of painting you choose.
- Transform a plain wall into a statement piece by giving it a fabulous chalky finish or change the colour and style of your accessories like metal or glass lamp bases, even lampshades can have a new lease of life with a coat of chalk effect paint.
Why not check out our range of chalk effects paint today and see what inspiration it gives you?