Chalk paint is a creative alternative option for color decorating. It offers a new way of enhancing existing decorations or designs in your houses, offices, stores, etc. But have you wondered if you can use it on your walls? In this article, we have researched and asked the experts on whether or not you can use chalk paint on your walls.
Chalk paints can be applied on walls, especially if you want a matte finish. As chalk paints are water-based, you can also mix them and have a variety of colors that you can use to spice up your walls.
Interested in learning more about chalk paints and their various applications? Continue reading as we discuss more details about them, like their difference compared to regular paint, their durability, other uses for them, and more. We will also tell you how to apply them and discuss some of their pros and cons, so finish reading until the end to know more.
Difference of chalk paint Vs. regular paint
Your best bet for a better matte finish paint is chalk paint; this is the main difference with regular paint. Compared to regular paint, you can instantly apply chalk paint without using any other materials like lacquer thinner.
This makes chalk paint easier to use, especially if you are only retouching some paint scuffs and scratches on furniture, figurines, and of course, on your walls.
Another great feature of chalk paint that differs from regular ones is it is less likely to drip because of its consistency. The water-based nature of chalk paint also makes it easier to remove on unwanted surfaces while still wet. It is also easier to wash it off your clothes if you get it on you.
Cost of chalk paint
The Annie Sloan chalk paint usually retails between $34 and $35 for 32 ounces, while the Rust-Oleum chalk paint retails between $16 and $18 for 30 ounces. You can buy these products in dedicated paint boutique shops or on online.
Click here to see Linen White chalk paint on Amazon.
Chalk paint is more expensive than regular paint, but chalk paint requires less paint and can be applied alone. If a wall requires you to use two buckets of acrylic paint, chalk paint can usually finish it with one making it a cost-effective choice.
Compared to regular paint, chalk paint offers better coverage; you would only need one or maybe two coats to cover a portion of your wall or any piece completely.
Chalk Paint Pros & Cons
Aside from some features mentioned earlier that chalk paint has, another feature that attracts consumers is its quick initial drying property. Though acrylic paint and chalk paint do not differ too much when it comes to drying time, chalk paint has a property that makes it dry to the touch quicker. This prevents mess when accidentally touching or leaning on it.
Though you can apply chalk paint directly without additives, finishing it is different as it requires a sealing top coat. You might opt not to wax your chalk-painted walls, but its durability would suffer.
Even though you have to do some extra finishing with it, wax-sealed chalk paint offers more durable quality and can make it last longer than regular paint.
Although you can use it on walls, chalk paint is specifically designed for furniture painting and decorative pieces. That's why it is not the usual paint used for painting large walls like building exteriors.
Acrylic is still the go-to paint when it comes to this type of painting as they offer better preservation qualities and protection against weathering and the elements as chalk paint is only designed for decorative purposes.
How do you apply chalk paint on walls?
Since there is no preparation needed, you can immediately start painting your walls, just make sure that you are painting on a clean surface. If there is dirt, you may want o clean it off first.
Chalk paint is adhesive to almost any surface, so whatever the type of wall you have, whether concrete, brick, or wood, you are good to go.
You can apply as many coats as you want, but you can apply even just up to two coats as chalk paint has a thick consistency. You have the option to apply wax as a sealing coat for your wall, as this will help with durability. You may choose not to apply wax as it gives a smoother texture and appearance but offers less protection for your chalk paint,
Chalk paint is popular for do-it-yourself projects, but if you don't want to bother with the hassle of painting yourself, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
Chalk Paint Application: Tip from a Pro
Chalk paint was invented by Annie Sloan, who registered its trademark under her company named after her. Though some replicas or chalk paint-like materials have popped out over the years, original chalk paints still have the edge as they are still better in consistency and finished look.
Annie Sloan suggests that the best way to paint your walls with chalk paint is by using a dedicated wall paintbrush instead of a roller as it will require you to use less paint to finish the job.
Can you chalk paint over regular paint?
Yes, you can put chalk paint over regular paint as this will not damage the existing paint and vice versa. Chalk paint is best if you want to go for that vintage or antiqued style look for your walls.
Chalk paint can also be used in conjunction with chalkboard paint that helps transforms regular walls into chalkboards. This can be a good option when decorating your kid's room!
We have written a previous article about how to paint your walls cleanly titled, "How To Not Get Paint On Ceiling When Painting The Walls [4 Tips]." You can check it out for a comprehensive guide on keeping a neat workplace for your paint jobs at home.
What other surfaces can you use chalk paint on?
Chalk paint can be applied to nearly every surface that you want. Furniture and figurines are some examples that you can apply chalk paint. Chalk paint can also be applied on varnished wood, garden furniture, metal, concrete, matte plastic, and terracotta.
Chalk paint is usually not used for painting over teak wood surfaces as it has some properties that can damage and dry up the wood, causing it to crack. Though some variations of Annie Sloan brand chalk paint are used on teak wood, many still argue that it covers the natural beauty of teak wood and could cause damage in the long run.
In some cases, using chalk paint in your kitchen cabinets and kitchen tables might not be an ideal option as you would be required to wax them to protect them from the damage of heat and moisture from cooking; this could be expensive and can take you a long time to do it.
But if budget is not a problem, you can do this as chalk paint can help boos the overall aesthetics of your kitchen. A tip when painting with chalk paint is to not worry about the visible brush strokes after applying the first coat as this will eventually flatten out when you are applying your second coat.
You may want to check out a related article that we have previously written about painting your house foundation titled, "10 Best Paints For A House Foundation."
In summary
You can use chalk paint on walls. Although, it was not initially designed for use on walls. Chalk paints can go on almost any type of surface and are best if you want a matte finish or vintage and antique look for your walls or furniture. Though chalk paints are much more expensive than regular wall paint, they require less preparation and less amount to cover up a certain portion.