Have you discovered chalk paint yet?
Chalk paint has developed into a craze in recent years as home decorators are enticed by the promise of minimal preparation and no sanding prior to applying the first coat of paint.
I had a dark timber display cabinet I wanted to lighten up to fit in with my new décor, but it was too big and too heavy for me to move to a place where I could sand it and make a mess.
The original dark stained timber cabinet.
Then I heard about chalk paint and travelled about twenty minutes to
Somewhere in the Sunshine, a small French inspired studio and gallery in the heart of Tyalgum NSW, to purchase a tin of Annie Sloan Decorative Chalk Paint. I like the matt finish of chalk paint and wanted the shabby chic effect.
I learned the paint is non-toxic and can be applied to almost any surface without even priming the surface first. This appealed to me and I purchased a tin of Antique White, a tin of Clear Soft Wax and a special brush.
The only preparation I did was to dust and wipe the timber with a soft cloth and apply masking tape to the glass in the doors. I then proceeded to apply the first coat. The paint went on easily with good coverage over the dark timber stain.
Part way through applying the first coat.
Even though it was fast drying, usually within the hour, I allowed the first coat to dry overnight, mostly because I was happy to have a break.
The next day I applied the second and last coat of the chalk paint. The last step was to rub some wax into the painted surfaces to seal them and then gently buff them. It's recommended that you wait for a couple of days to allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding with the waxing step. I waited for two weeks, mostly because I was busy with other things. The wax seals and protects the paint and although it doesn't darken the colour it does seem to enhance it. I'm very happy with the finished result.
The finished cabinet.
is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm. They also run classes that teach several chalk painting techniques including Wet and Dry types of distressing using two colours, Layered Colour Washing and Dark Wax applications. The classes cost $160 and include the paint and equipment used on the day. If you'd like to join a class you will need to take a small piece of furniture to work on.
The next class is Saturday 20th August from 10am to 3pm. however, you will need to phone 02 6679 3908 to reserve your place.
