Getting Started With Chalk Paint

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint can transform a room.

words: Pattie Pegler images: Annie Sloan

I see a lot of inspiring things when I aimlessly scroll through Instagram. Mostly I just go ‘that’s amazing’ and then forget about them. But when I spotted a dresser somebody had transformed with Annie Sloan chalk paint – something about it stuck with me. And that thing was…it looked really easy.

It got me thinking about the custom wood bookcase I had sitting in the garage. And then it got me straight down to The Fabric of Society where I discovered their Annie Sloan corner – an amazing little spot in the shop where all things Annie Sloan chalk paint are organized.

Getting Started With Chalk Paint

Why does everyone love chalk paint? Annie Sloan developed chalk paint to make painting, well easier. And quicker. And, honestly, that sounds like my kind of painting. Primers and sanding and preparation and double, treble coats…all those things have put me off traditional painting. With chalk paint – it is really much, much simpler. Dust the piece down, brush on some paint and there you go.

So what can you chalk paint?

Anything seems to be the answer. I’ve seen tables and chairs and bookshelves and cabinets and dressers and …you get the picture. If you’ve got an item you want to transform – then chalk paint could well be the answer.

You can even use it on outdoor furniture – although it does apparently need a bit more care and the Annie Sloan website recommends finishing off outdoor pieces with Chalk Paint™ Lacquer to protect against peeling paint caused by water damage but also against UV rays and fading colour intensity.

What do you really need?

Well the basic idea is paint. But it’s easy to get carried away. Especially in The Fabric of Society where there are books and brushes and stencils and gold leaf and all the colors you can imagine. But as a beginner, I would advise you curb your enthusiasm until you feel confident.

I started off with a tin of Duck Egg Blue, a brush and some clear wax to finish off the piece. And honestly, I was pretty pleased with the result. In fact I was so pleased with the result I am signing up for one of The Fabric of Society’s chalk painting workshops.

When are the classes?

2nd and 6th September, 7th October