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Trendey • Décor Ideas • 17 Chalk Paint Furniture Ideas

17 Chalk Paint Furniture Ideas

17 Chalk Paint Furniture Ideas

  • by — Kendrick Hulse
  • Published on May 3, 2021

  • Updated on March 17, 2025

Loved by beginners and professionals alike, chalk paint is one of the most popular formulas for giving old furniture new life. Yet many people still underestimate its versatility.

Despite what you may believe, chalk paint isn’t just for farmhouse decor. Chalk paint can be modern, rustic, contemporary, glam, and much more. And it does it all with very little prep work.

Ready to try your hand at chalk-painting your furniture? Keep reading for our favorite chalk paint furniture ideas and tips for how to recreate these projects on your own.

1. Energize with Bright Chalk Paint Colors

Chalk paint is more renowned for its soft, matte appearance than for rendering bright color palettes. But the right technique can make your chalk-painted furniture incredibly vibrant.

Vintage wooden dresser painted mustard yellow and dark brown with chalk paint, featuring a mirror and decorative accents
Source: @fourfeathersfurniture via Instagram
Vibrant nursery with an orange crib, green wardrobe, and jungle-themed decor, featuring a toucan plush and tropical accents
Source: @fullhouse.designs via Instagram
Bold yellow vintage cabinet against a dark wall, surrounded by lush green plants, decorative accents, and a striped side table
Source: @haighyshomeinyorkshire via Instagram
Vintage hutch painted distressed olive green, showcasing white pitchers, decorative plates, and lemon-themed accents on wooden shelves
Source: @livys_finds via Instagram
Elegant teal hutch with gold accents, glass doors, and a patterned backdrop, styled with books, décor, and a vintage chandelier
Source: @oneofasecondkinddesigns via Instagram
Bold red and yellow chalk-painted cabinet with blue knobs, paired with eclectic stacked decor and a potted plant on top
Source: @shedeleven via Instagram

Make sure you start with the right color formula. There’s no point in trying to build up a muted pastel to your desired brightness. Many DIY furniture painters will mix several shades to get the exact color they want.

Don’t dinge up your color palette with tinted wax. Go with a clear topcoat with plenty of shine to make your brightly colored furniture really pop.

2. Create Drama with Dark Chalk Paint Hues

After years of light, airy neutrals dominating home decor trends, dark colors have finally made a resurgence. And there’s no better way to update your current dresser or nightstand than with a few coats of colorful chalk paint.

Elegant black chalk-painted dresser drawers with ornate gold handles, styled with vibrant red roses on a wooden floor
Source: @audreysshabbychicboutique via Instagram
Black chalk-painted vintage dresser with ornate gold handles, a curved mirror, and red floral decor, reflecting a cozy bedroom setting
Source: @audreysshabbychicboutique via Instagram
Elegant vintage bed frame painted in muted blue with gold detailing, floral accents, and cane panels, styled with white bedding
Source: @british_accents_furniture via Instagram
Bright kitchen with dark green chalk-painted cabinets, wooden countertops, a farmhouse dining table, and natural light from glass doors
Source: @fairymakes via Instagram
Chic dark gray chalk-painted vintage nightstand with ornate gold handles, styled with a yellow clock, vase, and decor on a patterned rug
Source: @fourfeathersfurniture via Instagram
Large black chalk-painted hutch with glass-paneled doors, intricate wood detailing, and vintage-style handles, set against a rustic backdrop
Source: @gadouryrestoration via Instagram
Black chalk-painted vintage dresser with gold handles and intricate wood detailing, set outdoors on a rustic surface with fallen leaves
Source: @marcella.mcclellan via Instagram
Navy blue chalk-painted dresser with gold geometric handles, styled with a round gold mirror, pink roses, and a white-paneled backdrop
Source: @popofpaintnc via Instagram
Vintage green chalk-painted dresser with gold hardware, a wood top, and a matching mirror reflecting a scenic tree-lined path
Source: @thevintagedahliafurniture via Instagram

Black furniture goes with everything. Different finishes can have a huge influence on black paint’s final look, so play around with different waxes and sealants.

Remember that dark colors don’t need to be dull. Jewel tones are a gorgeous option for any piece of furniture you want to be the star of your room design (pair with gold hardware for maximum impact!).

3. Achieve Depth with Dark Shadow Techniques

Many DIYers start chalk-painting furniture because they fall in love with the look of shadows and highlights.

This technique uses several shades layered on top of each other to give the illusion that part of the furniture piece is in shadow.

Vintage dresser with a weathered blue-gray chalk paint finish, black metal handles, and floral wood detailing on the corner post
Source: @maisonmarignyfurniture via Instagram
Vintage dresser with a bold teal and black ombre chalk paint finish, dark metal handles, and a rustic brick wall backdrop
Source: @perception_an_eye_for_treasure via Instagram
Vintage china cabinet with a distressed gray chalk paint finish, gold hardware, glass doors, and antique decor inside
Source: @the_upcycled_home via Instagram

You can use varied shades for a dramatic gradient. This technique can also be incredibly subtle, to the point that an average onlooker wouldn’t even notice that the shadows aren’t real.

While the shadow and highlight technique is a great way to give a piece depth, it’s not the only way it can be used.

There are tons of creative examples of painters layering different colors to replicate the look of watercolor, engraving, and more.

4. Distress for Vintage Charm

While chalk paint is extremely versatile, there’s a reason it rose to popularity during the shabby chic era. It’s one of the best paints to use for a distressed aesthetic.

Vintage wall clock with a distressed light blue chalk paint finish, gold accents, and glass detailing, set against a white background
Source: @antiqueswithabuddy via Instagram
Rustic gray chalk-painted dresser with a distressed finish, black metal handles, and a round mirror, styled with nautical decor
Source: @bellavintagedecor via Instagram
Distressed white and gray chalk-painted media console with black handles, open shelving, and a 'dream' wooden sign on top
Source: @chastaks via Instagram
Vintage sideboard with a distressed white chalk paint finish, ornate details, and a dark top, styled with rustic holiday decor
Source: @themarketon71 via Instagram
Distressed white chalk-painted dresser with exposed gold accents, dark round knobs, and ornate carved details against a rustic brick wall
Source: @theredroostervintage via Instagram
Distressed mint green vintage chair with intricate carvings and a floral cushion, styled with a rustic side table and pink blossoms
Source: @vintagebirde via Instagram

The easiest way to give chalk paint a distressed look is with sandpaper. Once your paint is dry, sand down the highest points of your furniture piece to reveal the natural wood.

If you’re not sure where to start, think about where your piece would be bumped, scraped, and worn down with years of use.

Or you can give your finished dresser or coffee table an aged appearance with a layer of dark wax. This will also protect the paint underneath.

5. Embrace Rustic Elegance with Farmhouse Style

You can apply almost any finish over chalk paint. Still, chalk-style paint is one of the best options for achieving a matte finish. And that’s exactly what you need for a farmhouse-inspired makeover.

White chalk-painted vintage dining set with elegant chairs, fall-themed pillows, and a cozy tablescape featuring pumpkins and greenery
Source: @bellavintagedecor via Instagram
Black chalk-painted farmhouse bench with a buffalo plaid cushion, white accent pillows, and a 'Stay Awhile' sign, styled with rain boots
Source: @foreverpinkvintage via Instagram
White chalk-painted piano with a matching bench, decorated with Christmas greenery, lanterns, and a festive 'Merry Christmas' chalkboard sign
Source: @houseonyough via Instagram
White chalk-painted farmhouse hutch decorated with Rae Dunn pottery, Halloween-themed accents, and rustic fall decor
Source: @popofpaintnc via Instagram
Light gray chalk-painted farmhouse dressers with glass knobs, decorated with rustic greenery, cotton stems, and a blue textured lamp
Source: @raynorshinevintage via Instagram
White distressed chalk-painted farmhouse cabinet with rustic metal handles, styled with greenery and a 'Home' sign on top
Source: @restoredheart517 via Instagram
Pair of white chalk-painted farmhouse side tables with intricate panel detailing, styled with greenery in a bright, cozy living space
Source: @terracottafurniture via Instagram
Rustic farmhouse dining set with sage green chalk-painted chairs and a wooden tabletop, styled with a lavender centerpiece against a white backdrop
Source: @twitch_ankou via Instagram

To really bring out the farmhouse aesthetic in your painted furniture, allow some of the piece’s natural wood to shine through. You can do this by staining the top of your dining table or dresser and painting the rest.

Opt for light shades of blue, green, grey, and, of course, white or cream. You can maintain the matte finish of your chalk paint furniture by protecting the surface with wax. Use dark wax for a distressed look.

6. Personalize with Hand-Painted Detail

Chalk paint is remarkably easy to work with regardless of experience level.

If you want to test your skill with a paint brush, then designing a piece of furniture with your own pattern or miniature mural is a great place to start.

White chalk-painted nightstands with hand-painted black leopard print drawers, styled with a gold cheetah figurine and a potted plant
Source: @bowboutique via Instagram
Bold hand-painted dresser with geometric drawer designs in yellow, pink, and blue, featuring an artistic portrait on the side panel
Source: @fff_collectibles via Instagram
Hand-painted cabinet featuring Monet's 'Woman with a Parasol' design, blending blue and green chalk paint for an artistic vintage look
Source: @jellynonsense via Instagram
Vintage navy blue chalk-painted dresser with intricate hand-painted white floral designs, styled with a plant and woven basket
Source: @surrey_lane_home via Instagram

Set yourself up for success with a clean surface and solid base coat. Chalk paint layers and blends with minimal effort, so don’t be afraid to add tons of detail to your imagery.

Unfortunately, not everyone has the skill needed to turn their old dresser into a piece of literal art.

Don’t be afraid to lay down guidelines with a stencil before going in freehand. (And don’t skimp on preserving your masterpiece with wax or a topcoat!)

7. Soften Your Space with Light Chalk Paint Shades

If you’re looking for paint ideas that will fit your feminine decor style, then chalk paint is an excellent go-to.

With minimal prep required and a full coverage formula, you can jump straight to covering up your furniture’s old paint with something new.

Vintage sage green chalk-painted secretary desk with gold hardware, spindle legs, and a tassel accent, styled with neutral decor
Source: @anarose_studio via Instagram
Light mint green chalk-painted wall cabinet with decorative metal mesh door and multiple hooks for hanging keys or accessories
Source: @antiqueswithabuddy via Instagram
Blush pink chalk-painted vintage dresser with an ornate oval mirror, gold handles, and soft floral decor reflecting a cozy bedroom
Source: @foreverpinkvintage via Instagram
Elegant vintage vanity in soft blue chalk paint with ornate gold handles and a tri-fold mirror, styled with roses and a faux fur rug
Source: @frenchlinenfurniture via Instagram
Light blue chalk-painted vintage display cabinet with glass panels, styled with boho decor, potted plants, and books on a wooden patio
Source: @interior_love_de via Instagram
Sage green chalk-painted tall dresser with woven-texture drawer fronts, gold knobs, and coastal decor, styled with a white side table and plant
Source: @maisonmarignyfurniture via Instagram
Light blue chalk-painted wicker dresser with gold hardware, styled with a round mirror, orange flowers, and a coastal-inspired setting
Source: @popofpaintnc via Instagram
Mid-century modern sideboard with sage green chalk-painted drawers, a rustic wood frame, and brass hardware, styled with woven baskets
Source: @thehousewarmings via Instagram

Chalk paint is a great option when working with light shades because of how well it covers.

Depending on your furniture’s original finish, it may take as little as one coat. Other formulas, like milk paint, can take several coats when applying a light color.

You can pick up a light shade like Duck Egg or French Linen from a chalk paint brand like Annie Sloan. Or mix your own color using your favorite formula.

8. Add Glamour with Metallic Highlights and Accents

With the growing popularity of maximalist decor, metallic furniture is a big trend to watch! Metallic chalk paint isn’t really a thing. But you can easily layer metallic mineral paints over an existing coat of chalky paint.

Vintage green chalk-painted wall clock with gold metallic accents, ornate detailing, and a glass panel showcasing the swinging pendulum
Source: @furniture_restoration_art via Instagram
Gray chalk-painted sideboard with gold metallic detailing, arched panel designs, and potted greenery, styled with a woven basket and a dog
Source: @kachafurniture via Instagram
Black chalk-painted vintage cabinet with ornate gold metallic detailing and intricate hardware, styled with dried wheat and greenery
Source: @monsoondragonflyinteriors via Instagram
Pair of sage green chalk-painted vintage nightstands with gold leaf accents, ornate hardware, and decorative floral and crown styling
Source: @secondchancestudios29 via Instagram

Despite the fact that chalk paint is synonymous with rustic, vintage-inspired design, it plays surprisingly well with metallic formulas. You can even combine the best of both worlds with gold or silver distress marks.

Another fun version of this trend is pearlescent glaze. Apply this glaze over your chalk-painted furniture to give the entire piece a shimmery finish or highlight accents like engraved dresser drawers.

9. Modernize with Sleek Chalk Paint Finishes

“Modern” certainly isn’t the first word most people think of when it comes to chalk paint. Yet it’s just as easy to complete a modern-style furniture makeover with chalk paint as any other formula.

Light blue chalk-painted dresser with gold textured handles, styled with a potted orchid, botanical artwork, and a rustic wooden backdrop
Source: @bowboutique via Instagram
Matte black chalk-painted sideboard with a built-in wine rack, brass hardware, and rustic decor, styled against a weathered wood backdrop
Source: @creativelytayloreddesign via Instagram
Light blue chalk-painted filing cabinet with gold hardware, styled with books and a modern decor piece, set against a patterned wall
Source: @droy_realestatephotographer via Instagram
Matte charcoal chalk-painted sideboard with glass-front drawers and gold hardware, styled as a bar with liquor bottles and glassware
Source: @marilynn8487 via Instagram
Minimalist light gray chalk-painted nightstand with round metal knobs, styled with a mirrored jewelry box and a potted plant
Source: @ournest_thebelford via Instagram
Pair of modern gray chalk-painted nightstands with curved frames, textured drawer fronts, and sleek black handles, styled with greenery and decor
Source: @rede_fine_d via Instagram

No matter the paint color you choose, application is extremely important. Visible brush strokes or uneven coats will ruin your modern finish.

Err on the side of caution by applying more than one coat and gently sanding after each one dries.

While you want your finished piece to look sleek, shine is another matter entirely. Finish things off with a matte or satin clear wax and minimalist cabinet or dresser drawer pulls.

10. Harmonize with Neutral Chalk Paint Tones

Not everyone wants their furniture to stand out from the rest of their home decor. With that said, white chalk paint isn’t the only color you have to select from.

Neutral gray chalk-painted hutch with glass doors, ornate detailing, and a wooden countertop, styled with vintage decor and warm lighting
Source: @annahobbs123 via Instagram
Minimalist sage green chalk-painted dresser with tapered legs and matching knobs, styled with a potted plant and ceramic vase
Source: @donnenrica via Instagram
Sage green chalk-painted cabinet with glass knobs and hairpin legs, styled with rustic decor, a wicker basket, and a potted plant
Source: @paperkitecreations via Instagram
Light gray chalk-painted table with French script design, styled with rustic decor, a large wall clock, and metal house ornaments
Source: @theatticbykay via Instagram

Creams, greys, and tans are all stylish alternatives to stark white furniture.

Finding the perfect shade is incredibly important when working with subtle neutrals. Pay attention to the warmth or coolness of your existing decor when selecting a color.

If your chosen color is a bit too vibrant, play around with saturation. You’ll be surprised how different a shade can look with a little bit of white mixed in.

11. Create Flow with Ombre Effects

Chalk-finish paint is very forgiving when it comes to layering, blending, and sanding. One way the DIY community has showcased this user-friendliness is by creating one-of-a-kind ombre designs.

Ombre blue chalk-painted dresser with black hardware and delicate floral detailing, styled with greenery, sailboat decor, and a floral painting
Source: @british_accents_furniture via Instagram
Vintage ornate mirror frame with an ombre chalk paint finish transitioning from neon yellow to deep green, placed on a wooden floor
Source: @chalkandmirrors via Instagram
Vintage sideboard with an ombre green chalk-painted finish, stained glass cabinet doors, and rustic decor, set against a minimalist white wall
Source: @due.south_ via Instagram
Large dresser with an ombre chalk-painted finish transitioning from white to blue, featuring distressed edges and square knobs
Source: @galina.hughes via Instagram
Cozy attic bedroom with rustic beams, featuring an ombre chalk-painted wardrobe, a white writing desk, and soft pastel decor
Source: @sissinghurstlocationhouse via Instagram

These pieces of painted furniture might look complex at first glance but the process is actually quite simple. The most difficult parts are choosing a color palette and having the patience to apply layer after layer of paint!

Beginners and those who want a more subtle finished product should start with a monochromatic ombre. If you’re confident in your blending abilities, try out a more advanced color scheme that incorporates several contrasting shades.

12. Revitalize Fabrics with Chalk Paint

Of course, chalk paint is many DIYers’ formula of choice for wood furniture like a dresser or coffee table. But did you know you can also use chalk paint on upholstery fabric?

Elegant tufted office chair with cream chalk-painted fabric and natural wood accents, styled in a modern workspace with a green paneled wall
Source: @adorewood_decor via Instagram
Vibrant teal chalk-painted vintage chair and bench with tufted fabric and cane detailing, set outdoors against a wooden fence with greenery
Source: @dumpsterdaisies via Instagram
Outdoor loveseat with bright turquoise chalk-painted cushions and a dark wooden frame, styled with a matching blue metal stool on a porch
Source: @kristy_agrippe via Instagram
Vintage armchair with chalk-painted navy fabric and a white distressed frame, styled with a fluffy throw in a cozy living room
Source: @lashesandlaminate via Instagram
Pair of vintage cane-back chairs with chalk-painted fabric and a distressed neutral frame, styled with a side table and soft decor outdoors
Source: @laura_hayes_studio via Instagram
Luxurious vintage armchair with deep teal chalk-painted fabric and an ornate gold frame, styled with cherry blossoms and antique decor
Source: @mariesmaison via Instagram
Vintage armchair with chalk-painted distressed white frame and textured beige fabric, set against a two-tone wall with handwritten text
Source: @myprettyhipthings via Instagram
Vintage tufted loveseat with chalk-painted white fabric and a glossy black frame, styled with sunflowers, candles, and rustic decor
Source: @rustyroostervintage via Instagram

While you can use chalk paint to literally coat old upholstery fabric, it’s better suited as a makeshift dye. Apply lots of water to each section of fabric before applying the paint for the best saturation.

This technique is a great way to revive an old accent chair or sofa. However, you should always paint a test patch before moving forward with the whole project to prevent disasters.

The ingredients in chalk paint might not always mix well with certain fabrics or previously used dying agents!

13. Make Patterns Pop with Chalk Paint

Chalk paint is wonderful for creating patterns because of how thick and pigmented the formula is. There’s no need to worry about working from light-to-dark colors or bleeding your layers together.

Mid-century modern dressers with a geometric green and yellow chalk-painted design, paired with rich wood tones and styled with lush plants
Source: @girl_in_blue_designs via Instagram
Vintage dresser with green and white chevron chalk-painted drawers, a distressed finish, and styled with rustic decor and a globe
Source: @lazydaysandsundays via Instagram
Bold striped chalk-painted dresser with gold leaf accents, curved edges, and ornate hardware, styled with dramatic dark decor
Source: @marlen_reich via Instagram
Colorful floral-patterned chalk-painted dresser with mid-century modern legs, set against a white wall with quirky wooden figurines
Source: @sublimedecor.nz_ via Instagram

Color-blocking is a fun, vibrant painting technique that is easy to replicate no matter your skill level. You can keep things simple with just two or three different colors or go bold with an entire rainbow.

Geometric patterns can be a pain to paint by hand. Use blue painter’s tape to plan out your project and get the cleanest lines possible.

14. Simplify Designs with Stencil Techniques

If you dream of updating your old furniture with elaborate designs but don’t trust your artistic talent to do the job, stenciling is the solution!

Black chalk-painted dresser with intricate white stencil patterns, styled with greenery, glass vases, and a framed flamingo print
Source: @farbarela via Instagram
Mid-century modern cabinet with a gray chalk-painted frame, wooden roll-top, and stencil-patterned sliding doors in a scalloped design
Source: @leccentrica_ via Instagram
Dark blue chalk-painted dresser with intricate white floral stencil patterns, styled with modern decor, a vase with branches, and bold artwork
Source: @perception_an_eye_for_treasure via Instagram
Black and white chalk-painted dresser with a geometric stencil pattern, paired with a vintage chair and decorative accents
Source: @surrey_lane_home via Instagram
Vintage secretary desk painted in muted green chalk paint with delicate floral stencils, featuring organized storage and rustic charm
Source: @upcycle_arcade via Instagram

Again, chalk paint is one of the best formulas to use with furniture stencils because it is so full-coverage. It also dries faster than latex paint so you can finish your project in record time. Invest in a specialty stencil brush for the easiest and quickest application.

You can find tons of fun, quirky, and elegant stencils through major retailers or independent sellers on platforms like Etsy. It’s also possible to make your own stencil by hand or with a crafting machine like Cricut.

15. Two Tone or Multi Tone

You can achieve great color payoff with chalk paint, even compared to other highly pigmented formulas of furniture paint. It’s the perfect option for any project where you want to play around with contrasting colors.

Bold blue and gold chalk-painted dresser with a fern stencil design, featuring antique brass handles for a striking two-tone effect
Source: @ajt_inspirations via Instagram
Gradient ombre chalk-painted dresser blending soft pink, lavender, and teal hues, finished with classic black cup handles for a modern touch
Source: @fourfeathersfurniture via Instagram
Vibrant ombre chalk-painted dresser with a rainbow gradient from yellow to blue, accented with ornate gold handles for a vintage touch
Source: @secondchancestudios29 via Instagram
Upcycled armoire transformed into a stylish coffee bar with blue chalk paint, patterned wallpaper, warm lighting, and organized storage
Source: @theculturedpearlrestorationco via Instagram
Elegant vintage china cabinet refinished in muted gray chalk paint with glass doors, intricate detailing, and a modern minimalist display
Source: @vintagefeatherfurniture via Instagram
Bold geometric chalk-painted sideboard with a mustard, olive, and neutral color palette, creating a striking modern statement piece
Source: @wildwoodwallingford via Instagram

Multi-colored designs can be extremely subtle or in your face. For example, you can create a multi-toned chalk paint dresser by painting the drawer interiors different colors. Or by choosing an entirely different shade for each drawer front.

If your painted furniture piece has an open design, such as a bookshelf or oddity cabinet, use a contrasting color for the interior walls. This will give the piece dimension and make the items inside really stand out.

16. Unique

Furniture paint doesn’t come in just one formula — spray paint, latex paint, milk paint, and even acrylic paint are all quite versatile. But there are very, very few projects that chalk paint can’t handle.

Artistic chalk-painted cabinet with deep blue, teal, and pink tones, accented by gold detailing and ornate metal hardware for a bold look
Source: @dogheaddesigns via Instagram
Whimsical armchair with a bold eye-patterned backrest, turquoise seat, and multicolored hand-painted legs for a playful artistic touch
Source: @handmadecolorlife via Instagram
Coastal-inspired nightstands with white chalk paint, intricate stencil detailing, black-and-white palm tree prints, and natural wood tops
Source: @lisasbackyardworkshop via Instagram
Antique armoire with distressed chalk paint finish, ornate gold handles, and faded stencil detailing for a vintage European-inspired look
Source: @othermanstreassure via Instagram
Elegant wood and teal ombre-painted cabinet with a natural finish, blending rich wood grain with a soft gradient for a modern artistic look
Source: @patience_and_gough via Instagram
Distressed chalk-painted dresser with a weathered gray finish, hints of blue and green, and vintage-style hardware for a rustic look
Source: @re.picks_ via Instagram
Retro-inspired cabinet with bold rainbow stripes, geometric patterns, and glass doors, blending mid-century and modern eclectic design
Source: @shedeleven via Instagram

One of our favorite chalk-painted furniture trends bridges the gap between bold colors and natural wood grain.

For this look, apply your chosen color of paint over just part of your furniture piece. Feather the paint’s edge so it fades into the wood underneath for a one-of-a-kind dresser or tabletop.

The online DIY community is an incredible resource if you’re looking for creative inspiration. Check out platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest for how-to tips and ideas!

17. Vintage

Recycling old furniture is a great way to cut down on waste and save a few bucks. Meanwhile, chalk-painting is a quick and easy way to cover up blemishes and outdated finishes.

Vintage-style dresser with a distressed white chalk paint finish, antique brass handles, and warm coastal-inspired decor for a timeless look
Source: @ayeshagelahi via Instagram
Elegant vintage dresser with ornate detailing, painted in soft white chalk paint, featuring antique brass handles for a classic French-inspired look
Source: @popofpaintnc via Instagram
Classic vintage dresser refinished in soft white chalk paint with carved details, brass oval handles, and elegant spindle legs on casters
Source: @themadisonstockexchange via Instagram
Antique hutch with distressed blue chalk paint, ornate detailing, and glass doors displaying vintage china for a charming rustic look
Source: @vintage_painted_charm via Instagram
Rustic turquoise dresser with a distressed chalk paint finish, aged patina, and black knobs, adding vintage charm to the space
Source: @zainasfineinteriors via Instagram

Antique furniture and chalk paint have a complicated relationship. Many collectors view chalk-painting furniture as “ruining” it. When used responsibly, though, this paint can restore vintage pieces that would otherwise end up in the trash.

Also, remember that chalk paint requires very little surface prep. It’s possible to update a piece of furniture without ruining the original finish underneath. So if you ever change your mind, you can remove the paint and restore the piece to its former glory.

Can you use chalk paint on kitchen cabinets?

Yes, you can. Thoroughly prepping the surface will ensure the paint stands up to the wear-and-tear cabinet doors experience each day. This includes cleaning the cabinets and removing stains in the existing finish. Read our article on the painted kitchen cabinet ideas.

Do you need to seal chalk paint with wax?

While you don’t need to seal your chalk-painted furniture, it will help create a uniform finish and extend the lifespan of your paint. Plus, many painting techniques rely on dark wax for coloration.

You can also use polyurethane to seal your chalk paint projects. Polyurethane offers a more durable protective layer than wax. It’s ideal for pieces like a dining table, writing desk, or dresser.

Are chalk paint and chalkboard paint the same thing?

Don’t be fooled! Chalk paint and chalkboard paint are two entirely different products.

Chalk paint gets its name from the matte finish. It should not be written on with chalk.

Chalkboard paint is specifically formulated to create a writable surface and normally comes in black or dark gray. You can use this paint on furniture, walls, and other items you’d like to double as chalkboards.

Kendrick Hulse

Writer

Kendrick holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Wisconsin. She has written professionally for five years and specializes in home and garden design, with past experience working in the residential gardening industry.

Kendrick holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Wisconsin. She has written professionally for five years and specializes in home and garden design, with past experience working in the residential gardening industry.

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