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Chalk paint is one of the most common paint formulas currently available. This specialty paint allows you to paint a piece of furniture without doing any prep work or sanding. This paint dries quickly and offers maximum coverage with minimum effort.
One of the biggest complaints painters have is how much chalk paint costs. The average cost of chalk paint is $35 or more per quart of paint. This article will teach you how to make chalk paint for a fraction of the cost.
There are numerous strategies for making chalk paint. The most popular recipes use Plaster of Paris, unsanded grout and baking soda. Each recipe provides you with approximately one pint of paint; however, the recipes can easily be multiplied.
Plaster of Paris
Plaster of Paris is a mixture of lime and sand or cement. This material is often used on walls and ceiling to provide a smooth hard surface. It is very similar to joint compound; however, unlike joint compound that has been mixed by the manufacturer, Plaster of Paris is still in its powder form.
To make chalk paint using a bit Plaster of Paris, combine two and a half tablespoons of Plaster of Paris with one and a half tablespoons of water. Stir the water and plaster together until it is smooth and has no lumps. Then, add this mixture to 1 cup of latex paint and stir for approximately two minutes or until completely smooth.
This recipe can be tweaked to your liking. For example, if you want a more chalkier appearance, add a bit more Plaster of Paris to the water. For a less chalky finish, decrease the amount of Plaster of Paris you use.
See Also : Learning How To Chalk Paint
Unsanded Grout Chalk Paint Recipe
When learning how to make chalk paint, it is important to try several recipes to find the one that you like the best. The unsanded grout chalk paint recipe is quite different than other chalk paint recipes. This chalk paint gives a slightly textured feel; however, if you are looking for a recipe that dries fast and is easy to distress, this may be the perfect recipe for you.
To make the chalk paint, mix two tablespoons unsanded grout with 1 tablespoon of water and stir until smooth. Add this mixture to 1 cup of latex paint and stir until smooth.
Chalk Paint Recipe Using Baking Soda
Chalk paint made using baking soda is thicker than the other chalk paint recipes. Because of its thickness, it can often completely coat the project in one easy coat. However, unlike the other recipes, this recipe allows the grain of the wood to show through.
To make this recipe, combine a half a cup of baking soda with three tablespoons of water and stir until it makes a paste. Pour this paste into one cup of latex paint and stir until smooth.
Learning how to make chalk paint will save you tons of money, especially if you enjoy painting furniture. Chalk paint provides a chalky patina that can be distressed to provide you with an antique look.
