Frames | Botanical Prints | Lamps (similar)
I found this brown chest for $30 at a warehouse sale that I stumbled across on Facebook marketplace. I love a good DIY and before/after and thought how beautiful it would look with a good coat of paint to freshen it up. Something about including an antique in a room really makes it look more “collected” and adds a bit of charm.
I find that pieces that are real wood and have some type of carvings or texture make the best candidates for a good chalk paint makeover. I really liked all of the detailed wood work and carvings along the chest.
The best part about chalk paint is that there is no sanding, striping or priming needed before painting the furniture. This makes the process so incredibly easy that anyone can do it and you don’t need any type of crazy tools. I’ve seen so many great pieces for sale online that would be great before/after candidates for so inexpensive. I also love the idea of adding new hardware (like this one – so gorgeous!) once it’s been painted or new upholstery to modernize it.
To chalk paint a piece of furniture, you will need the following:
- Chalk paint
- I used Chantilly White by Amitha Verna. Annie Sloan is also a very popular brand!
- Brush for paint
- Wax or sealant
- Brush for wax
- Rag or towel
- Sandpaper
Go here for detailed how-to videos and inspiration!
- Step 1: Wipe off the piece of furniture and make sure there is no excess dust or dirt. Remove any hardware that you will not be painting.
- Step 2: Paint on the first coat of paint. If you are using a light color, you may be able to see a bit of the furniture underneath. Wait 20 minutes for it to dry (or however long your specific paint takes)
- Step 3: Add a second coat of paint. Let dry to 20 minutes. The paint doesn’t have to be perfect since you will probably be “antiquing” the edges.
- Step 4: Use the wax sealer all over the piece and make sure to get in all the creases.
- Step 5: Use the sand paper to “antique” the edges and add in some rough spots. I like to focus on areas that would naturally get more wear such as corners or around the legs. An alternative to sand paper would be to add a darker wax which imitates the look of wear.
That’s it! So simple. I’ve been wanting to find a few more pieces and have been casually cruising around on the Nextdoor app.
Do you have any pieces that you’ve painted? What brand of paint do you use?
xo, Kinsey
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