So some of you may still be pondering what the buzz is about Chalk Paint®. If you are asking about the name "Chalk Paint®" you are referring specifically to the famous Annie Sloan Paint. Which was developed by Annie Sloan herself and was branded to be the famous and very popular Chalk Paint® line. She was wanting to fulfill her need of a versatile paint that would have coverage for just about anything with the artistic character of old distressed matte finish.

Below is what is quoted directly from their site of their description of the paint is.

"What is Chalk Paint®?

Chalk Paint® is very easy to work with. It very rarely requires any preparation, such as sanding or priming, and can be used indoors or outside, on just about any surface - from wood to metal, and matt plastic to terracotta. It can revitalise old furniture, walls, ceilings and floors with ease. It's easy, fun and makes amazing results accessible to everyone.

With a colour palette inspired by 18th and 20th Century decor and design, you can easily mix the colours together to extend the range. Chalk Paint® is eco-friendly too. It contains extremely low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and has no odor.

Add a little water to it to make it smooth, thicken it up by leaving the lid off, make it into a wash by adding even more water. Use flat brushes for a smooth look or bristle brushes for a more textured aged look. Gorgeous results have never been so simple and straightforward.

You'll discover some of Annie Sloan's core techniques below as well as on the Annie Sloan YouTube channel. To learn more about these and other techniques, contact your local stockist about booking a workshop. Alternatively, you'll find detailed step-by-step instructions in Annie Sloan's books 'Creating the French Look', 'Quick and Easy Paint Transformations' and 'Colour Recipes for Painted Furniture and More' (all published by Cico Books)."

You can go to Annie Sloan's website here.

Now if you've done any further research you'll discover there are now LOTS of different kinds of chalky texture paints that essentially do the same as what is described above. Another competitive brand that is very similar to Annie Sloan that is made right here in the US is CeCe Caldweld Paint. I've only tried Annie Sloan paint but I know some claim one is better than the other...I believe it all has to do with preference. If you want my honest opinion I prefer my DIY chalk paint recipe above all others. I've recently tried the lesser expensive brand found at Home Depot and really like the smoothness of this paint. Was a very silky application but still very different from the much more pricier Annie Sloan Paint. I will at a later date go over in detail a list of brands I've either used or found information and testimonials on with a later post then link it here.

Picture Credit

Another question that arises with this specialty paint is the question of is chalk paint and chalkboard paint same thing?
You'll come to find out that they are actually not the same or used for the same purposes. Chalkboard paint is made to be specifically for what it's named for...being chalkboard paint and although it has a similar look and feel to the family chalk paint it's purposes are still different...and yet the same. Have I confused you yet. What I mean by that in theory is that Chalkboard paint is made to be painted on surfaces to be utilized as a chalkboard where as chalk paint is a decorative paint that can has almost unlimited uses...yes even as chalkboard paint...which is where the confusion often derives from. If you'd like a great recipe to make your own chalkboard paint...good ole Martha has it here.

Now that is cleared up...or I hope it to be...onward to what this amazing paint can really do. Here below are link and examples of what others have done with this magical paint and where I'll also be sharing my own endevers.

Here are some AMAZING refurnished furniture that will make you want to instantly get out of your chair to grab some paint and a bush and start getting to work. At least it does for me.

Amazing Buffet all done with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint topped with Martha Steward Metallic Paint. This image was found here.

Eeeeek This Table and Chairs! Cushion Tutorial found here. Lovely Blog too.

Lovely Little Antique Dresser. Details of all it's Loveliness found here. The color name "Duck Blue".

Yes that's right folks you can do your Kitchen Cabinets! Here's the tut on it...and very well done I might add.

For more Chalk Painted Kitchen Cabinet inspiration go here!

Ummm did I mention lighting? Here you go!

Yeah...that just happened...washer and dryer. Yep Yep Yeppers. Credit.

Cute linen Baskets. Easy peasy. Look here.

Mason Jars of Course! Have to have these! Tutorial found here.

Have I mentioned Leather? Cause it can do that too! Discover more about this chair here.

Oh and can't forget to mention FABRIC! Click here to see more images.

Are you absolutely floored yet? Cause the list is really endless. Need I go on? There's inspiration everywhere...more and more as people continue to share what they are discovering what this mystical paint can do for them. It's awesome! As my girls are now finally getting up...after sleeping in most of the morning from their late night slumber part fest...I'll have to stop here. I'll be back to add on...there are some that I'd like to share myself. I'll also like to add a DIY Recipe page and which one is my fave...so much so that I enjoy it more than dare I say it....Annie Sloan. I feel like I just made an angel fall from the heavens by saying that aloud. For now I must give attention to the mass of girls that just came into the kitchen. Until then I hope this page get's you inspired to discover your love of chalk paint to share with the rest of us!

A quick share as I've come across this great link about tips on Annie Sloan Chalk Paint found here:

Mason Decore

There are several others I will share as time permits...you can of course go to Pintrest and get lots of inspiration there and find out more what Chalky Paints can do. Click here for a Pintrest list of ideas.

I came across this lovely image on Pintrest and it's gotten me inspired to test some transfer options on some near future furniture pieces. You can find more information one this specific piece here. Coming across this site I discovered it to be an amazing source for freebie designs and transfer technique information. Take a look for yourself!

I have ink jet printer setting downstairs because I do most of my printing off my laser printer but I see I'll have to dig mine up again to try out some of these designs. I'm actually excited to come up with my own designs to be used as completely original transfers. A great way for me to get my graphic design skills to the test.

Image credit found here.

Here's another inspired piece...I love the details that this lady has put into this one.

Click here to view her step by step tutorial.

There's always the good old fashion way of having something hand painted. This option probably interests me the most being that I love this kind of painting the most...details details details. Can't wait to make up some signage for our house and see how they turn out.

Click here to view this tutorial on how to make your own vintage sign.

Eeek! I can't explain to you how much I adore this look! Simple and elegant. LOVE!

Click here to view more details on this fabulous transformation!

Take a look at the details here...there had to be some long hours put into this pretty piece. Click here to view it's makeover.

I love the simplicity of this one...even better it's made simple as a stencil that is sold on Etsy!

I'm thinking I'm going to need to buy this...Click here to purchase you stencil.

I'm seeing this everywhere...numbered drawers. Another must try idea.

Click here for more images of this piece...give you a heads up...it's not in English.

Ok...That's all I have time for as of right now...I'll of course be adding more as I come across them now that I have a post for transferring inspirations ideas. Please let me know of your own creations if this is something you've taken time to do. We would love to share and see your creations!

No we're not talking about bikini lines here...haha.

I've got to be honest waxing has got to be my least favorite thing about the entire refinishing process. Which is one reason I'm not completely sold on the whole Chalk Paint idea. I love the look of chalk paint but the idea that I then have to wax it and buff it and maintain it...it's a bit much. There is a lot to learn about the whole waxing process...how and why and what. There are so many questions that arise when it's your first time working with it.

There are several blogs I've come across that have answered my questions and I've gotten a lot of mixed reviews of how people love it and swear by this method and others that are completely against using chalk paints all together because of the waxing process.

I will say this...for as much as chalk paint claims it's non need of prepping and priming to give the idea it's cutting down on the whole paint refinishing process...it's pretty much a wash because of the fact you do have to wax...and not usually with one coat but often with 2 or 3. On top of that you then have to wait a full month for the wax to cure and if you use too much...the wax will never cure and harden to create that protective seal you need for your freshly painted chalk painted furniture piece.

However, once you've gone through the process it does give a very durable finish and you get the nice warm aged look that you're striving for by using this method.

I will be soon getting a sample of paint that we will look to be caring if it's claims are correct that it has the best of both worlds...no needing to have to prep or prim pieces and no needing to wax and seal afterwards. Whew...I hope it's a winner! I would love to not only carry this type of product but use it myself. More on this later.

Now back to the question...to wax or not wax after painting. So far I've done a lot of my pieces with a coat of water based poly. The wax...I've done on a few pieces and I'm still not sold on the process or the end result. Sigh but it's something I have to give into because I really like the look of chalk paint that much...also the ease of being able to distress it. I do love dark wax to darken a piece to give it an authentic aged look. So I have no complaints there. Clear wax though it goes with that no gratification of seeing any type of real transformation other than knowing I'm protecting my work. So to me it's a very boring process.

So to simply answer to wax or not wax...yes you absolutely have to unless you decide to use a clear poly when you've used a chalk paint or any specialty paint line like Milk paint or Mud Paint. The preference its up to you on which you like to use. In which I suggest using a matte finish for a water-based poly. So you keep the chalky look of the chalk paint...which is the point right? Otherwise you will get a sheen or gloss finish, in which if that is the case I would say go ahead and use a latex based paint. Unless you want ease of being able to distress with a shiny finish. Then again Chalk Paints are the way to go with a shinny poly finish. Typically speaking though this isn't true to what an antiqued look would be.

I'll be back here to fill in much of the blanks for this page. I'll have to thumb back through to links I've saved on this topic that have helped me along the way learning more about wax finishings. The what to do and not to's. It's not complex really but there are definite factors you should know before diving into a project with a waxed finish.

This information is found directly from Milk Paints Website. I've found information on this paint is a rare find.

Milk Paint is an ancient all-natural paint containing basic ingredients including milk protein (casein), limestone, clay and natural pigments. When absorbed into the surface, Milk Paint will never chip or peel. It is suitable for both interior and exterior applications and is naturally mold resistant. Milk paint provides a completely breathable coating and is ideal for painting wood, plaster, drywall and a variety of other surfaces.  It is environmentally friendly, non-toxic and contains no VOCs.

With the Milk Paint Bonding Agent you can use Milk Paint on even more surfaces such as previously painted walls, varnished surfaces, ceramic tiles, metal, glass etc.  Without the bonding agent, Milk Paint will resist some prefinished or prepainted surfaces to achieve an authentic “chippy” look.

Mix your Milk Paint with 1 1/2 parts water to 1 part Milk Paint.  You can mix it by hand or use a blender for a smoother paint result.  This paint works wonderfully over raw wood and can also adhere to painted and varnished furniture. Without the bonding agent, Milk Paint will resist some prefinished or prepainted surfaces to achieve an authentic “chippy”look. 

Seal and protect using Miss Mustard Seed Furniture Wax, Antique Wax or Hemp Oil.  Annie Sloan Soft Waxes will work as well.

Additional tips on working with Milk Paint…
• Using a blender to mix creates a nicer consistency to work with.  Darker colors like Tricycle and Typewriter can be especially tricky to mix, since they are so highly pigmented.
• When painting a surface that is in high contrast with the paint color (like painting dark wood with a light paint color) multiple coats will be required for an opaque finish.
• Milk paint should be sealed with a top coat like the Furniture Wax or Hemp Oil.
• Use Milk Paint Bond to allow adhesion to previously painted or varnished surfaces.
• Slight shade and color variations may occur between batches. Purchase enough paint to test and finish your entire project. Be sure to save some for future touch ups.
• If you’ve never worked with Milk Paint before, it’s a good idea to try a sample to make sure you like it.

FAQS

What is Milk Paint?
It’s a powdered, all natural paint (no VOC’s) that has been around for thousands of years.  It was found in the pyramids in Egypt and on ancient cave paintings.  It’s been used in America for years on furniture, walls, barns, etc.  It is a versatile paint that can be used to achieve a variety of looks from chippy and distressed to smooth and sleek.

What is the difference between Milk Paint and Chalk Paint®?
They are two totally different kinds of paint.  Chalk Paint® comes premixed in a quart and is great for the adhesive qualities and ability to paint almost any surface without prep work.  Milk Paint comes in a powder form and is mixed with water to turn it into paint.  It has great adhesion when the bonding agent is added directly to the first coat of paint.  Most surfaces do not need to be prepped or require only light sanding.  Without the bonding agent, Milk Paint will resist some (not all) existing finishes (painted or poly finished) in some places and will naturally self-distress, creating the “chippy” look.

What is the Furniture Wax?
The Furniture Wax is used as a protective topcoat.  It’s very similar to other waxes on the market (Annie Sloan Soft Wax, Fiddes), except it’s a little creamier and very low odor.
Apply it to a piece of raw wood, stained wood or painted furniture with a cloth or brush.  Buff after about 5-10 minutes.  Apply additional coats for a higher sheen and more durability.  Coverage for the 7 oz. jar of Miss Mustard Seed Furniture Wax is 400-500 square feet, a little goes a long way.

Is wax a durable finish?
YES, it’s a very durable finish.  If it’s marred, just lightly sand and add another coat of wax.  Refinishing the entire piece is not required. Miss Mustard Seed says she has it on her kitchen table and it has held up beautifully to two young boys!

Can I use the Furniture Wax over other paints or other waxes over Milk Paint?  
Yes, you can use other waxes on Milk Paint and you can use Miss Mustard Seed Furniture Wax on Chalk Paint®, flat latex, stained wood, etc. (You can use Annie Sloan Soft Waxes over Milk Paint.)

Is Milk Paint good for raw wood?
Yes, it’s one of the best paints for raw wood.  It acts like a stain, but looks like a paint.  The color will penetrate the wood for a lasting finish that won’t chip or flake.  This makes it an ideal paint for raw wood cabinets or floors.

What is the Hemp Oil?
Hemp Oil is a finish that is a nice alternative to the wax.  It is all natural, so it’s great for people who are sensitive to chemicals.  Hemp Oil is best when it’s applied to a porous surface (like raw wood, stained wood or Milk Painted raw wood.)  It will absorb into the surface, creating a durable finish.  It can be used over Milk Paint over an old finish as well, though.  Wipe on with a clean cloth, wipe away excess.  Apply additional coats for more shine and durability.  This is also a great product to revive dry, tired wood.

What’s the difference between MMS Antiquing Wax and other “Dark Waxes” on the market?
Miss Mustard Seed Antiquing Wax was developed specifically to be used to antique paint finishes.  Dark waxes are meant to be used as a wood stain/wax in one.  Because of that, the dark wax is very saturated with pigments and can look heavy and streaky on a finish if not mixed with clear wax or mineral spirits.  Antiquing Wax only has a small amount of pigment, so it works more like a glaze with the body of a wax.  This product is also low odor and can be applied with a brush or clean cloth.

Do I have to prime before using Milk Paint?
No.  You can simply apply the bonding agent to the first coat of paint.  That will make the first coat act almost like a colored primer.  You do not need to add the bonding agent to the second coat. If the “chippy” look is desired, do not use the bonding agent and do not prep the piece.  (Watch the video on Getting the “Chippy”)

I actually do not have any personal experience with this paint...YET...but will be back here once I've gotten my hands on it. I'm interested in seeing how it holds up to my fave Chalk Recipe.

Here's a tutorial on a hutch that was done up in Milk Paint...from one of my favorite bloggers. Her blog is filled with tons of great help tips and tutorial of how to do pretty much anything when it comes to refurnishing furniture. It's really an awesome source!

http://salvagedinspirations.com/replace-glass-with-chicken-wire-the-safe-way/

What makes Chalk Paint different from basic Latex Paint? Other than the actual properties and components of the paints and without having to get all technical on matters of which I don't know a lot about...well go into the basics of why you'd want to us one over the other.

I personally love the look and finish of the chalky matte finish of Chalky Paints. So you may ask why not just go with a basic flat latex paint and call it a day. I guess it's something that is harder to explain and really something to be experienced. One thing I do enjoy about my own DIY recipe for Chalky Paint is mixture and thickness...there's more substance to it...like a clay paint. It has much more body than working with a latex paint which is what I like working with. Being that it's my own recipe I can also add as much or as little of the mixture as I like. One benefit that I see to this is the lack of brush strokes. Normally latex because of how fast it dries shows paint brush strokes much easier than apposing oil paints that take much longer to dry allowing the paint to spread out and disperse the brush markings.

With Chalk Paint I feel as thought it breaks up the paint to making it show the strokes as much. If that makes sense... however when all else fails you can always sand and well sanding it to a silk smooth finish is great! Sanding will get out all existing brush strokes if there are any and allow you to feel your way to where you have and have not sanded. Sanding is especially easy with the chalky paints and much more easier to do than latex. Reasons being with latex you get that rubbery finish where areas can end up pulling off from the surface you have painted as oppose to simply sanding off for a distressed look.

Now if you don't like all the finishing work and like a basic coat after priming latex is the way to go. Especially if you are wanting the durability of a high or semi-gloss finish without having to "wax" everything...which is my least favorite part of using chalky paints. People will argue Latex is better because of this factor of not having to put on a finishing coat where others will say Chalky Paint is better because there is not priming and very little to none prepping involved. Both have great and not so great aspects. I love that with chalk paints I can basically jump right into painting a piece other than cleaning and maybe lightly sanding down a piece. (My end result look comes much faster). What can I say I'm all about instant gratification. The ease of distressing is really what it's all about when going for a shabby chic or vintage vibe for a piece. However if you're not about this look then clearly chalky paints are not going to be for you.

One true benefit to Chalky Paints is the versatility of use. Think about Fabric, Leather and Metals. It's great for all of the above. I've tried some of these myself to be true...and even with my DIY recipe being that I've so far not found a pricy name brand of the stuff that I like or find comparable to what I like about my own mixture.

So there you have it...my own personal take of the paints. It's not technical but it's what I've learned along the way and even after reading multipule posts on this topic I've discovered the only way to really find out is to do it yourself to find out. Everyone's preferences are different...so to say one is better than the other isn't what should be asked but rather which one do you prefer?