Transforming Bedroom Furniture With Chalk Paint

Painting a bedroom set with chalk paint is a great way to give your room a new look without breaking the bank. Chalk paint is a water-based paint that provides a hassle-free, beginner-friendly way to achieve a professional-looking, soft, chalky finish. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, plastic, laminate, glass, and fabric.

When painting a bedroom set with chalk paint, the first step is to prepare the furniture by removing any hardware and giving it a quick clean with a wet cloth to remove any dirt or grime. The next step is to choose the right paint and brushes. Chalk paint can be purchased pre-mixed or made at home, and a variety of brushes can be used depending on the size and detail of the furniture.

Once the paint and brushes are ready, it's time to start painting. The aim is to have full paint coverage, so be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Chalk paint dries quickly, so it's important to work fast and add additional coats as needed. After the final coat has dried, the furniture can be distressed using sandpaper to create a shabby chic look.

The final step is to seal the paint with wax or varnish. This step is optional but recommended to protect the paint and seal in the color. The wax or varnish can be applied in the same way as the chalk paint, using a separate, clean paintbrush. The furniture can be used once the wax or varnish is dry to the touch, but it may be vulnerable to scratches and scuffs until the finish has fully hardened, which can take up to two weeks.

Choosing the right paintbrush

Brush Shape and Size

The shape and size of the brush will depend on the type of surface you're painting and the level of detail required. For large, flat surfaces like dresser tops or walls, opt for flat brushes that provide even coverage. Round brushes are ideal for curved or intricate areas like chair backs, table legs, or decorative accents. If your bedroom set has lots of crevices or fine details, go for smaller brushes that can easily manoeuvre in tight spaces.

Bristle Type

Chalk paint typically works well with natural bristles, such as boar bristles, as they hold paint well and provide a smooth finish. Synthetic bristles, often made from nylon or polyester, are a more affordable option and are effective for water-based chalk paints, giving a more contemporary look. If you're using wax with your chalk paint, a natural-bristle brush is the way to go as it will help distribute and absorb the wax evenly.

Bristle Stiffness

The stiffness of the bristles will impact the texture of your paint application. Soft bristles will give you a smoother finish, while stiffer bristles will create more texture and allow for varied brushstrokes. If you're going for a shabby chic or vintage look, a stiffer brush might be a good choice.

Brush Quality and Durability

Investing in high-quality brushes will pay off in the long run. Look for brushes with bristles that are securely attached and won't shed excessively. Well-made brushes will last longer and provide better results. Read reviews or ask other DIY enthusiasts about their experiences with specific brands to find the best options.

Comfort

Don't underestimate the importance of a comfortable brush, especially if you'll be painting for extended periods. Look for brushes with ergonomic handles that provide a good grip and reduce hand fatigue. A comfortable brush will make the whole painting process more enjoyable.

Brand Recommendations

When it comes to brand recommendations, Annie Sloan, Infiniti Elementz, Colorantic, and New Renaissance are all well-regarded for their quality and performance. For synthetic brushes, Dixie Belle offers a range of sizes and shapes that work well with chalk paint. Zibra brushes are also worth considering for their smooth paint finish and ergonomic handles.

Prepping your furniture

First, remove any hardware from your piece of furniture, such as handles, knobs, and drawers. This will make the painting process easier and ensure you get a neat finish. Next, give your furniture a quick clean with a wet cloth or a cleaning solution to remove any dirt, grease, or grime. This step is important to ensure the paint adheres properly and creates a smooth finish.

If your furniture has any gouges, deep scratches, or holes, now is the time to fill them. Use a wood filler or putty knife to patch up any imperfections. Once the filler is dry, lightly sand the surface with fine sandpaper (around 220 grit) to create a smooth finish. Run your fingers across the surface to check for any patches you may have missed. You can also use sandpaper to distress the furniture edges and corners if you're going for a shabby chic look.

Finally, if you're working on an older piece of furniture, particularly those made of cherry or mahogany, you may experience bleed-through. To test for this, apply a small amount of paint to an inconspicuous area and see if the wood's natural tannins bleed into the paint. If this happens, don't panic! Simply apply a coat of primer and allow it to dry before proceeding with painting.

Painting techniques

Chalk painting is a beginner-friendly way to decorate your home yourself. It is a simple way to give your home a well-needed makeover. It is a water-based paint, so it is easy to clean up. You can use chalk paint on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, upholstery, and ceramic. It can be used to create a matte, distressed, or glossy finish.

• You don't need to sand or prime your furniture before painting, but it is recommended to lightly sand your piece of furniture to help the paint adhere better and give you a more even finish.
• Use a paintbrush designed for chalk paint, and choose a smaller brush if your furniture has lots of crevices or fine details.
• Paint in every direction to achieve full paint coverage.
• Chalk paint dries quickly, so you can recoating in as little as 30 minutes to an hour. Most pieces will require at least two coats.
• If you want a shabby chic look, lightly sand the corners and edges with sandpaper after the paint has dried.
• Seal your chalk paint with wax or varnish. This step is optional but recommended to protect the colour for longer.
• Thin the paint by adding water to it or wetting the tip of your brush before dipping it into the paint.
• Use feathering, a painting technique that will help smooth out most of the paint strokes. With very light pressure and your brush angled up, lightly brush over the paint.
• Try different painting techniques such as cross-hatch, stippling, dry-brushing, or wash to create textured patterns.
• If you are painting cabinet doors, use a brush to apply the paint first, then go back over the area with a cabinet roller to smooth everything out.
• If you want a super-smooth finish, lightly sand between coats with fine-grit sandpaper and on the final coat before applying the topcoat.

Creating a distressed look

Step 1: Choose your furniture piece

Select a piece of furniture that you want to transform. It could be an old dresser, a bedside table, or any piece that you want to give a new look.

Step 2: Gather your supplies

• Chalk paint in your desired colour (you can choose from a variety of colours available or even mix your own)
• Paintbrush (a bristle brush or a chip brush will work)
• Clear wax (such as Annie Sloan's Clear Soft Wax)
• Wax brush or a soft, lint-free rag
• Sandpaper (100-220 grit)
• Hand sander or sanding sponge (optional)
• Painter's tape
• Mild soap and water for cleaning
• Wood putty (if there are any deep scratches or holes)
• Primer (optional)

Step 3: Choose and prepare your workspace

Consider the following factors when setting up your workspace:

• Temperature: Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably at room temperature.
• Ventilation: Ensure there is adequate ventilation by opening windows and using fans.
• Light: Work in a naturally lit area, and bring extra lamps if needed.
• Floor protection: Use a drop cloth or painter's tape to protect your floor from paint drips and dust.

Step 4: Prep and clean your furniture

• Remove any hardware, such as handles or hinges.
• Sand the surface lightly to remove any rough patches. You don't need to sand the entire piece, just focus on areas that need smoothing.
• Clean the furniture with mild soap and water to remove any dirt, grease, or residue.
• Fill any holes or deep scratches with wood putty and allow it to dry completely.

Step 5: Apply your first coat of chalk paint

• Mix your paint well before starting.
• Work in small sections as the paint dries quickly.
• Dip only the tip of your brush into the paint to avoid applying too much.
• You can dilute the paint with water if you want a thinner consistency.
• Apply the paint in thin, even coats, and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Depending on the coverage you desire, you may need two to three coats.

Step 6: Apply your second coat of chalk paint (optional)

• If you are happy with the coverage after the first coat, you can skip this step.
• Otherwise, apply a second coat of paint, and allow it to dry completely.

Step 7: Distress your furniture

• There are several techniques you can use to distress your furniture:
• Dry distressing: Use sandpaper to remove some of the paint and reveal the underlying layer or wood grain. Go over the edges, corners, and raised decorative details that would naturally receive wear and tear over time.
• Wet distressing: Use a damp cloth to gently wipe away the paint and create a more natural and authentic-looking distress.
• Wax distressing (resist technique): Apply a layer of wax to the surface, then paint over it. Use a damp cloth or sandpaper to remove the paint and reveal the underlying wax, creating a subtle distressed effect.
• Start with light distressing and gradually add more as needed.
• You can always go back and touch up any areas with more paint if needed.

Step 8: Clean your paintbrushes

Take a few minutes to clean your paintbrushes with warm, soapy water. This will help extend their lifespan.

Step 9: Apply a sealant (optional)

• You can choose to seal your chalk paint to protect it and give it a smooth finish.
• Options for sealants include clear wax, polyurethane, or a water-based polycrylic.
• Apply the sealant in thin, even coats, and allow it to dry completely before using the furniture.

Step 10: Reinstall the hardware

If you removed any hardware, such as handles or hinges, now is the time to reinstall them.

And that's it! You now have a beautifully distressed bedroom set. Remember that distressing is a creative process, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you. Happy painting!

Sealing your paintwork

Wax Finish

Wax is an excellent choice for chalk-painted furniture if you want to achieve an "antiqued" look. It gives your surface a smooth, satiny finish and brings out the best in chalk paint. However, it takes a little more effort to apply and requires periodic reapplication. When applying wax, use a stiff paintbrush or a soft, lint-free cloth to spread a thin layer evenly over the entire surface. Let it dry, then buff the wax with a clean lint-free cloth or an old t-shirt to achieve a nice satiny finish. It can take several days to several weeks for the wax to fully cure, so be gentle with your painted piece during this time. You can apply a second coat of wax for added protection, but one coat is usually sufficient. Different brands of wax have varying curing times, so be sure to check the instructions. You can also find tinted wax to add depth to your piece. Apply a coat of tinted wax after the clear wax has dried, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently wipe it off with a clean cloth. This method easily creates a "distressed" or "antiqued" look. While wax is an excellent choice for furniture, it is not ideal for kitchen cabinets or bathroom items as grease, dust, and humidity can make the finish cloudy.

Spray Clear Coat

Spray clear coats are widely available from companies that sell spray paint. Look for a product with a matte or satin finish to preserve the smooth, chalky look of your paint. A satin finish will give a subtle shine similar to wax with less effort. When using a spray sealant, work in a well-ventilated area and use a drop cloth to protect your surroundings from overspray. Shake the can vigorously to mix the sealant, then spray your piece in light, even coats using a back-and-forth motion. Apply a second coat once the first is dry for optimal protection. Ensure your piece is in a wind and dust-free area while drying to prevent dust from settling on the sealant.

Brush-On Polycrylic Sealant

Polycrylic sealant is the most durable option and is ideal for surfaces that come into frequent contact with water, food, or people. It is also the easiest to clean, usually requiring just a wipe-down with soapy water. Choose a sealant with a matte or satin finish to maintain the smooth appearance of your chalk paint. Before applying, stir the polycrylic thoroughly and ensure your surface is clean and dry. Brush on a thin coat, moving your paintbrush in one direction, and make sure the sealant gets into any small spaces. Let it cure fully before applying a second coat if needed. Polycrylic cures to a smooth surface, making it easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. Work in a well-ventilated area and protect your work surface with a drop cloth. Your paintbrushes can be cleaned with mineral spirits. While polycrylic is an excellent choice for durability, it is not the same as polyurethane sealant, which has a stronger odour and tends to yellow over time.

Not all chalk-painted items require sealing. Smaller items such as vases, jars, picture frames, and desk accessories can look nice without a sealant. For chalk-painted furniture, you may opt to seal only the top surface or areas that will be frequently touched. If you choose not to seal, apply at least two coats of paint to reduce the likelihood of scratches and chipping.

Frequently asked questions