The Best Chalk Paint DIYs, From Kitchen Cabinets To Marbled Tables

Annie Sloan never imagined her 1990 creation would become the go-to decorative paint for DIY home projects, but that’s exactly what it is today.

After struggling to find a versatile paint, Sloan came up with the idea for her trademarked product. In order to achieve a beautiful look, she painted furniture and walls, then glazed them with wax. Furthermore, the paint should be able to be diluted with water to create washes or thickened to create texture.”

In sum, Sloan’s concept is brilliant and diverse: the paints don’t contain black pigment, so they can be mixed to create unmuddied colors, as the artist’s paints can be. Paint is suitable for use on wood, metal, melamine, brick, and concrete. Even fabric and glass can be painted.

There are still numerous chalk paint DIYs that are shared in home improvement circles, despite the fact that chalk paint DIYs have been around for years. Having founded Chalk Paint more than two decades ago, Sloan continues to come up with stylish ways to use it for do-it-yourself projects that feel fresh and current. Check out the 7 painting ideas below.

#1. Improve the look of kitchen cabinets

Instead of investing in new cabinets, paint your old ones if they show signs of wear and tear. To give them a total makeover, Sloan suggests a Chalk Paint DIY. Choosing a classic shade like black, white, navy blue, or gray is the best way to achieve the traditional look. Choosing a vibrant hue like green or yellow is a great way to achieve a more modern look. Lacquering is an option once the paint is dry, but Sloan prefers waxed cabinets. While waxing requires a great deal more effort, the end result is more professional-looking and upscale.

#2. Repaint your floors and stairs

If the floor or staircase is covered in carpet, why not make them look brand new with Chalk paint?

Choosing a solid color throughout, painting vertical or horizontal stripes, or stenciling an abstract pattern on just the risers are some of Sloan’s recommendations for the tops of stairs.

If you have wooden floors, consider painting geometric patterns on them. A single color can also work, but you should choose one that is bold, especially at the entrance. According to Sloan, the first thing people notice about a home is the color of the shade. Make your floor and stair surfaces shine with glossy lacquer.

#3. Beautify the wall moldings

Painting wall moldings add depth, texture, and detail to a room, according to Sloan. Make sure you choose neutral solid colors and sand the raised areas once the paint is dry. According to her, sanding your molding adds an element of sophistication reminiscent of a luxurious Italian palazzo.

#4. Get yourself a new headboard

With a DIY Chalk Paint project, your plain headboard will become a show-stopper. Put a gilded gold finish on it and paint it in a solid color. In addition to using a stencil, you can also try freehand painting.

#5. Decorate your tables with marble

By painting the table a solid color and adding frottage to it, you can transform it into an art piece. Give the table a waxed finish first. Use a paintbrush to coat the table. Create a marbled effect by crumpling a sheet of paper and applying it to the table’s surface while it is still wet. Once the paint has dried, it is time to apply a lacquer or wax finish.

#6. Enhance Lamp Bases

The fresh coat of paint transforms ceramic, wood, or metal lamps into works of art, Sloan says. Make the design playful by adding stripes and dots, and finish with wax or varnish. An outdated lamp suddenly becomes a conversation-starting decorative item.

#7. Keep the bathrooms in mind

The only paint Sloan always chooses when remodeling her bathrooms is Chalk Paint. Makeover your tub’s exterior by painting it a solid color or pattern and sprucing up the backsplash and floor tiles. If any part of your bathroom is going to get wet, such as the inside of your sink or bathtub, you’ll need a lacquer finish.