Let’s submerge ourselves in the world of Chalk Paint! If you have never used it or heard of it, then I hope my experience and tips can help you understand its purpose better. Below is my journey on this chalk paint transformation, and how I took something from old and dusty, to new and feisty!
In terms of usage, I had two sideboards for so many years, and they had seen better days. I had been researching the best ways to transform them instead of investing money into buying new ones. Well, it just so happened that a crafty friend of mine invited me to a Chalk Paint Workshop, she thought I’d enjoy. Not only was she correct, But I left the workshop so inspired and craving to start my new project!
The workshop itself was at the Portilla Home and Garden Store. It specialized in the creation and techniques of Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint. Annie is a chalk paint guru and one of Britain’s most influential female designers! Throughout the workshop we learned about the different paint colors, waxes and the best techniques to apply them. It was quite motivating! (I’m sure you can search up some of Annie’s techniques online as well!)
As you know now, my home style and decor are more of a “Modern Farmhouse”. The dark wood of the old sideboards was not aesthetically pleasing and clashed with my overall vision. The first step was deciding on a color or colors, that would blend well with my coffee table and TV stand. The second step was getting over my fear of failure and accepting the fact that if I did “Mess Up”, I could always give the sideboards away! (Plot Twist: This was actually the most difficult part of the process! Believe in yourself and see the magic in creation!)
Once I realized that the task at hand was doable, I narrowed down my choice to paint the pieces a burnt umber (Reddish-Brown), in the classic shade “Coco”. The warm neutral color is perfect for blending! As for the wooden circle detailing, I wanted it to pop a bit, so I added a very flirty Silver color! The wax used was the Baroque Art Gilder in shade “German Silver”.
Step by Step Process:
Once I had acquired all the necessary materials to bring this project to life, I started off with wiping down the furniture and removing all dust and debris. I then used a paint brush (of any kind) to paint the sideboards.
After 2 full coats of chalk paint, the process took about 24 hours to completely dry! Side Note: Every piece of furniture is different. Be cautious and use your best judgement!
The following day, after reassuring that the paint had completely dried, I applied the clear wax with a cotton rag. In this circumstance, I decided to use clear because I did not want to alter the color of the chalk paint. Also, beware that colors are chemically altered and can change shades depending on the chemical reaction! So clear was the best option!
Later that afternoon, once the wax had settled in the chalk paint, I used my index fingers to apply the gilder wax on the wooden circle detailing. It was tedious but very easy!
Below you will find the list of items used for this project:
- 1 Ltr of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint: ‘COCO’ color
- 1 Tin can of Baroque Art Gilders Wax: ‘German Silver color’
- 1 Can (500ml) of Annie Sloan Wax: Clear wax
- 1 Large chalk paint brush
- Cotton rag- for clear wax. You can also use a wax brush
TA-DA! And here you have it! A chalk paint transformation! From old to feisty! The process only took two days, and there was very minimal labor! On the contrary to many over old furniture transformations, there was no need for sanding! The pigmentation of the chalk paint is so high quality that it isn’t necessary! Such an easy and rewarding DIY. That is always a PLUS in my book! Can I get an AMEN?! Life saver!
Next time you are thinking about throwing away a piece of furniture, ask yourself “Can this be transformed?”
I hope you enjoyed this post and you were left with some more insight on the wonders of chalk paint! Please share with me your chalk paint transformation! I would love to see it! 😊
