The velvety, matte finish of Chalk Effects paint reflects light, which results in its soft, smooth appearance that enhances the perception of age and helps achieve that vintage look.
Its distinctive non-glossy, velvety-soft texture is characteristic of this type of paint because of the inclusion of a fine powder such as calcium carbonate or clay, which keeps the paint open and porous even after it's applied, allowing for extensive ‘distressing’ or manipulation through blending and layering.
The Allure of the Vintage Look: Why Chalk Effects Paint is the Perfect Choice
Cracks, brush strokes, scratches, dents and dribbles all go towards making a piece of furniture look naturally worn and aged. The properties of Chalk Effects paint and the ease with which it can be applied make it the perfect choice for any DIY project when you are trying to achieve that vintage look.
There are various simple techniques you can learn in order to ‘distress’ a modern piece of furniture, including sanding and layering the paint, and a multitude of vintage colours to choose from to suit every taste and colour scheme.
Different waxes and stains help to achieve a rich, multi-layered finish that contributes to the overall aged appearance, and its ease of use and minimal preparation makes chalk effect paint extremely popular.
Choosing the Right Colour for Your Vintage Project
When deciding on a colour for your vintage chalk effect paint furniture you first need to consider your existing decor in order to select colours that will compliment your room and create a cohesive look.
It is also important to think about the overall atmosphere you want to achieve - soft pastels or muted tones like dusty blues, greens and greys give a shabby chic, even romantic feel, while deeper, earthier shades like slate or moss can create a more rustic, richer antique atmosphere.
Choosing two different colours that complement each other will help to create depth, and if you want to achieve a more modern vintage vibe then pairing a soft, neutral shade with a darker, earthier tone like charcoal can make any period piece feel more contemporary.
Essential Tools and Materials for a Smooth Application
The beauty of chalk effect paint is that it is quick and simple to use, it requires very little preparation and sticks to most surfaces without the need for sanding or priming.
Chalk effect paint can be applied by a roller if the area is large enough, but a good quality, flat or oval paintbrush will allow for better control and can help reduce brush strokes if that is the desired effect. Having a spray bottle handy to keep the paint and brush damp will also help to prevent any brush marks.
A sanding block or sandpaper (a fine 600-grit or higher) is needed to smooth the paint surfaces between coats, and a damp rag or lint-free cloth is essential for keeping the surface clean and wiping away surface dust.
Prepping Your Furniture for a Flawless Finish
Whilst using chalk effect paint for DIY projects requires very little preparation, there are certain tasks you can undertake in order to achieve a more professional look.
Always start by cleaning all the surfaces that are to be painted to ensure they are free from dirt and grease. You can use a light detergent or warm, soapy water, or an even 50/50 mix of vinegar and water to thoroughly clean the piece.
Allow the furniture to dry completely, then lightly sand the piece using 180-grit sandpaper to create a ‘key’ for the paint to adhere to - this is especially important on glossy or slick surfaces.
Use a wood-filler to patch up any holes or deep gouges, then once dried, gently sand the filled areas until they are smooth and level with the surrounding surface. Remove any hardware you can, or apply masking tape to protect areas like doorknobs, handles or glass from paint.
Techniques for Applying Chalk Effects Paint
Always stir your chalk effect paint thoroughly before you begin, then apply the paint to the piece moving the brush in all directions and all over the place. Once the first coat is touch dry (may take 1-3 hours depending on the climate) apply a second coat in the same manner.
When the paint is fully dry you can apply wax with a brush or lint-free cloth, in all directions as with the paint.
For a more complex or unique look, apply a base coat of one colour then a second, lighter colour on top. Lightly sand back the top layer to reveal the colour beneath to create a more aged, layered effect.
Another technique to create a worn, vintage look is to apply a dark wax to a single, light-coloured paint, paying special attention to crevices for a patina that mimics years of wear.
Sealing and Protecting Your Vintage Masterpiece
It is essential to finish your DIY project with wax or oil in order to provide durability, protect it from wear and tear, water damage, scratches and stains.
Gilly's offers a range of different finishes like waxes and oils that are natural, food-safe and non-toxic. Tung oil is a very popular finish because it is very durable and water-resistant, and provides a natural matte, or slightly satin finish, but you can also build up a beautiful, soft sheen with wax, by layering and rubbing.
So, what are you waiting for? Begin your vintage masterpiece today by choosing a chalk effect paint.