I have been curious to try chalk paint for quite a while now, as it promises to magically transform your boring old furniture into a sophisticated tribute to French chic with the mere lick of a brush. The perfect project presented itself when my uncle gave me this old Sobell wireless radio. I was so eager to start this project that I didn't even take any 'before' shots, so here's a similar image of what it used to resemble...
..before I got my hands on it!
Chalk paint can be a bit pricey, but I found this new range in my local arts & crafts shop and, while not exactly cheaper, they do come in handy smaller sizes for projects like this. I used Folk Art Chalk Paint in 'Lilac' (236ml for €10) and even though it took two coats, I only used half of the pot.
It's only when you use chalk paint that you realise how economical it actually is. There is ZERO prep work required, i.e. no sanding and no undercoat. Having already painted a kitchen dresser, the bannister, a set of coffee tables and even the fireplace surround - the hard way - I've had lots of experience painting wood. With hours of sanding, undercoats, long waits between drying times and a lot of colourful language when the roller left bubbles and the brushes left streaks, it really is a messy, stinky, laborious job.
Not so with chalk paint! You just lash it on - I chose a roller to give an even finish - and that's it. The pigment is so strong that you are left with an ultra-matt finish that is utterly fool proof. I have yet to treat it with soft wax, to give it that sleek sheen, but I have to say I am converted. If I ever need to paint furniture again, I'm going chalk paint all the way. In fact, it can be used for melamine surfaces and even floor boards (yes en-suite bathroom, your time has come!). The possibilities are endless and the only hard part is deciding which colour to choose.
..before I got my hands on it!
Chalk paint can be a bit pricey, but I found this new range in my local arts & crafts shop and, while not exactly cheaper, they do come in handy smaller sizes for projects like this. I used Folk Art Chalk Paint in 'Lilac' (236ml for €10) and even though it took two coats, I only used half of the pot.
It's only when you use chalk paint that you realise how economical it actually is. There is ZERO prep work required, i.e. no sanding and no undercoat. Having already painted a kitchen dresser, the bannister, a set of coffee tables and even the fireplace surround - the hard way - I've had lots of experience painting wood. With hours of sanding, undercoats, long waits between drying times and a lot of colourful language when the roller left bubbles and the brushes left streaks, it really is a messy, stinky, laborious job.
Not so with chalk paint! You just lash it on - I chose a roller to give an even finish - and that's it. The pigment is so strong that you are left with an ultra-matt finish that is utterly fool proof. I have yet to treat it with soft wax, to give it that sleek sheen, but I have to say I am converted. If I ever need to paint furniture again, I'm going chalk paint all the way. In fact, it can be used for melamine surfaces and even floor boards (yes en-suite bathroom, your time has come!). The possibilities are endless and the only hard part is deciding which colour to choose.
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