My Experience With Applying Wax Over Chalk Paint

As an avid DIYer, I love finding new ways to transform old furniture into something new and beautiful. One of my favorite techniques is using chalk paint to give furniture a vintage, shabby-chic look. However, after applying the paint, it’s important to seal it with wax to protect the finish and give it a soft, matte sheen. In this article, I’ll share my experience and tips on how to apply wax over chalk paint.

Step-by-Step Guide for Applying Wax Over Chalk Paint

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials:

Chalk paint
Wax (clear or colored)
Wax brush or lint-free cloth
Sandpaper (optional)

Step 2: Clean the Surface

Make sure the surface you’re painting is clean and free of dust and debris. You can use a damp cloth or a tack cloth to remove any dirt or dust.

Step 3: Apply Chalk Paint

Apply the chalk paint to the surface using a brush or roller. You can choose to apply one or two coats, depending on the desired look. Let the paint dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Sand (Optional)

If you want a more distressed look, you can sand the surface lightly with fine-grit sandpaper. This will remove some of the paint and reveal the wood or previous finish underneath.

Step 5: Apply Wax

Using a wax brush or a lint-free cloth, apply a thin layer of wax to the surface. Work in small sections and apply the wax in a circular motion. Make sure the wax is evenly distributed and there are no streaks or clumps.

Step 6: Buff the Wax

After applying the wax, use a clean cloth to buff the surface. This will remove any excess wax and give the surface a soft, matte sheen.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Applying Wax Over Chalk Paint

Choose a high-quality wax for best results.
Apply the wax in thin layers to avoid buildup and streaks.
Use a wax brush for a more even application.
Work in small sections to ensure the wax doesn’t dry before you have a chance to buff it.
Apply the wax in a circular motion to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Buff the wax with a clean cloth to remove excess wax and create a soft, matte sheen.
Experiment with colored waxes to add depth and dimension to your piece.
Don’t apply too much pressure when buffing, as this can remove the wax and damage the finish.
Wait at least 24 hours before using the piece to allow the wax to fully cure.
Store your wax brush in a plastic bag or wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it clean and prevent it from drying out.

Pros and Cons of Applying Wax Over Chalk Paint

While waxing chalk-painted furniture has its benefits, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether to use this technique:

Pros:

Wax provides a protective barrier that helps prevent scratches and stains.
Wax gives chalk-painted furniture a soft, matte sheen that’s perfect for a rustic or shabby-chic look.
Wax can be tinted with color to create a custom finish.

Cons:

Wax can be difficult to apply evenly, leading to streaks and clumps.
Wax needs to be reapplied periodically to maintain its protective properties.
Wax can be difficult to remove if you want to change the finish.

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Applying Wax Over Chalk Paint

Overall, I love using wax to seal and finish chalk-painted furniture. It gives the piece a soft, matte sheen and provides protection against scratches and stains. However, it can be challenging to apply the wax evenly, and it does need to be reapplied periodically. To avoid streaks and clumps, I recommend working in small sections and applying the wax in a circular motion. And if you’re not confident in your waxing skills, consider practicing on a small test piece before tackling a larger project.

FAQs

Q: Can I use any type of wax on chalk-painted furniture?

A: No, it’s important to use a wax that’s specifically designed for use on chalk-painted furniture. Look for a high-quality, furniture-grade wax that’s clear or tinted with color.

Q: Do I need to sand between coats of wax?

A: No, it’s not necessary to sand between coats of wax. However, if you’re using a colored wax and want a more subtle effect, you can sand lightly between coats to create a more blended look.

Q: How often do I need to reapply wax?

A: It depends on how much wear and tear the piece gets. In general, you should plan to reapply wax every 6-12 months to maintain the protective barrier and keep the finish looking fresh.