Chalk-finish paint colors are as varied as the rainbow. In this post, we discuss the different types of chalk-finish paints, a great ready-made chalk-finish paint that comes in several colors, and how to make homemade chalk-finish paint.

Types of Chalk-Finish Paint

There are several paints that are often called “chalk” paint. One of these is spray chalk. This type of paint can either be in aerosol or liquid form, and as the name implies, it is applied using a spray bottle or aerosol can. It can also be homemade or store bought.  These tend to be either white or grey in color. For more details on spray chalk, visit our article Spray Chalk — Where to Buy and How to Make?.

Another type of spray chalk is one that creates a chalkboard layer on surfaces. This chalk paint will allow for regular chalk to be used and functions as a traditional chalkboard would. It comes in both liquid and aerosol versions. In addition to the traditional black, this paint is sold in several colors as well. Visit this page to find out more details about colored chalkboard paint.

Chalk-Finish Paint

Chalk-finish paint is most often used to give wood and furniture a specific matte look. Because of this, it is very popular among furniture enthusiasts and artists. What makes chalk paint unique is not only the matte look,  but also the distressed look when sanded. Here is a very good chalk-finish paint:

This particular brand has the following features:

• One coat for the weathered wood look.  2 to 3 coats for a solid color.
• High quality, non-toxic, no VOCs. A porous paint specifically designed for furniture painting.
• Restore furniture to achieve multiple looks, such as Shabby Chic, Restoration and Classic Vintage Pieces. Can be used on multiple surfaces…wood, metal, glass, fabric, etc…
• Made with real chalk, no sanding or priming necessary
• Comes in 22 colors as of this post

You can find out more information or purchase it here.

DIY Chalk-Finish Paint

Although chalk finish paint can be purchased as such, you may want to make your own, particularly if you are looking for a specific color. With the method below, you can use any color of flat latex paint to achieve the desired results. The ingredients are flat latex paint, plaster of paris and water. Plaster of paris can be purchased online or at any hardware or craft store. You can sand the piece after painting for a classy distressed look.

How to Make Chalk-Finish Paint

For this method, you will need 3 parts plaster of paris to one part flat latex paint. You will also need water to mix and smoothen the consistency. The amount of water will depend on how thick you want the paint to be. You can start with 1/16 of a cup and add as needed.

Here are the instructions:

• Mix the water and plaster of paris first.
• Add the paint and continue mixing, making sure there are no lumps.
• Apply to wood with brush or roller of choice. The type of brush or roller used will affect the finish. Rollers tend to produce smoother finishes than brushes.

Whether it’s an antique or a neglected piece, chalk-finish paint gives furniture a fresh look and new life. There are limitless colors and several finishes to choose from, so the possibilities are endless!