I’ve read article after article on the amazing benefits of chalk paint. I’ve done a few small projects both with homemade chalk paint and FolkArt’s Chalk. However, I’ve been itching to try it on a big project.
Along with my miraculous curb side find, I also discovered a line of chalk paint developed right here in Canada.
It’s both less expensive and comes without the huge shipping cost of the popular Annie Sloan (from England) line, so I decided to dive in and try it. I was able to meet the delightful lady who developed it and her perfectly charming little store in White Rock, BC.
I would like to write absolutely rave reviews and gush about how marvellous chalk paint is. But, I’ll have to admit, I just don’t have the hang of it yet.
I chose the color “Cloudy Sky” to paint the fireplace. After lightly and quickly sanding down the piece, I wiped it off with a cloth and started painting.
I must say, it adhered well to the wood, and covered quite nicely. However the claims of needing only “2 coats” didn’t prove to be true with this black piece. I think it could have used a primer first…
The paint did dry quickly, which helped with the multiple coat process. The sweet paint lady told me to water down the paint slightly to help it “slide” on better, which I did. Perhaps I watered it down too much?
After about 4 (or maybe 6?) coats (they went on quickly), the piece seemed to be covered nicely. I didn’t want this to have a distressed finish, so I decided to apply the wax without any further work.
This is where I just don’t get the chalk paint system. I cannot for the life of me figure out how to get that silly wax on properly. I was told to use a lint free cloth like a t-shirt. That seemed to go terrible, so I pulled out a brush. That, also, seemed to leave a very uneven, spotty waxy surface…
So, I apologize that I can’t give you a great tutorial on chalk paint. I haven’t given up on it by any means. In fact, I’m determined to figure it out! So, stay tuned for more in process research.
In the meantime, I’ve declared this fireplace finished, and I just love it! Here it is as we found it via the curb behind the stop sign!:
And here it is now:
I love having a little mantel I can decorate up!
If you have any tips for applying wax to chalk paint, please let me know! I have more paint and projects to do…
Update: I just discovered a local shop that carries Cottage Paint, and they helped me figure out how to apply the wax properly. I’ll show it in another post.
Linking up: Weekend Retreat Party, The Party Bunch
Rita Joy, I am clapping my hands with you over this blessing! How exciting to find something free (that you need) and that it works! You did a fabulous job and it looks perfect in your Dining Room/Office. I’m looking forward to your projects!