Thursday, June 9, 2011

My First Chalk Paint Project

At long last, I have my first chalk paint project to share. I love the way it turned out. But in all honestly, I'm a bit undecided on the chalk paint. One minute I love it, the next minute I'm not so sure.




My first problem was just getting the paint to try. I checked out a variety of stocklists and found one with a pretty good package deal. Let's face it, this stuff is expensive. Now I could have started with just a can of paint, but I wanted to see how the products worked together. The stocklist kept sending mass emails to all us waiting for orders explaining a variety of problems and many shipment dates came and went along the way. And because they wanted to send the complete order in one package, I ended up waiting over six weeks for my order to finally arrive. That's a long time to wait for paint!



I bet you knew I was going to start with Louis Blue. It is a yummy color. And I couldn't wait to start!





I had this piece waiting patiently in the wings. I thought is was a perfect candidate for chalk paint. And after waiting so long, I wanted to jump right in with a big piece!










The entire dresser got two coats of the Louis Blue and I highlighted the details with Old White. I thought the paint was a little stiff to apply and hard to smooth out, especially on the second coat. I even tried adding a bit of water as suggested. And two coats were just barely enough coverage. I considered a third coat, but hated to use up so much paint on one project.















I will say that the chalk paint is very easy to distress with a soft sanding sponge. As the name implies, it comes off just like powdery chalk.











Then I went over the entire piece with the clear wax. I liked the soft consistency of the wax and the brush made the application a breeze. But this can of wax will not go nearly as far as what I'm used to with the Minwax Clear Paste Finishing Wax.

















Next I wanted to try the dark wax. The Annie Sloan book suggested mixing a bit of the dark wax right in with the clear. They don't really explain how to do this, but I scooped out some of each with a plastic spoon and mixed them together on a plastic plate. You can experiment with this to find the right combination for the look you are trying to achieve.











I liked the way just using the clear wax enriched the color. Here is a before on the left and an after on the right. The clear wax definitely toned down the brightness of the blue. And if the dark wax seems a little heavy for you, you can ease it off with more clear wax. It's fun to play, but remember you're using up a good bit of wax in the process. And according to the Annie Sloan book, if you don't use a coat of clear wax first, the dark wax will permanently stain the paint and you can't work it back out.










And here she is all pretty and finished!













































I kept most of the original hardware, but some of the pulls on the middle drawers were broken, so they had to be replaced. But I really like the way the colors in the knobs bring out the white paint and the dark wax.
































































I really like the look I achieved with the Annie Sloan products. But I'm still a bit unsure. And this morning when my husband helped me move the dresser out of the garage to take the after pictures, he thought it felt waxy. And I applied the wax days ago. I haven't really been able to buff it out properly yet. It grabs the cloth and feels tacky. Again, it's definitely not the finish I'm used to. Maybe it needs a little more time. So, I don't know. I'm still experimenting. My next several posts will all be chalk paint projects. We'll see...



















And yes, we're still celebrating our first birthday here at Elizabeth & Co.! You could win a fabulous personalized sign from Andrea at Signs by Andrea. She is also offering a discount to Elizabeth & Co. followers if you'd like to order a sign right away!







And what's a party without cupcakes? There will be seven winners! Be sure to check out all the details and enter here!





I'm linking to...

beneath my heart

craft



UndertheTableandDreaming The DIY Show Off



DIY Club



Chic on a Shoestring Decorating Funky Junk's Sat Nite Special

Photobucket 504 Main Designer Garden


The Shabby Nest








63 comments:

The Painted Parlor said...

Aw, I love it! Turned out So beautiful!! I still need to try me some of that chalk paint!

Julie :)

Twice Nice said...

I think it turned out lovely! It is a different paint to work with for sure, but I'm getting used to it slowly. It can get a bit gummy on those 2nd coats though. Can't wait to see your future projects! Deb

Linda@Coastal Charm said...

It looks outstanding...I'm just not sure I want to spend that much cash for PAINT. I was thinking about the old white...do you think it would look good without another color?

Blessings,
Linda

Darcee said...

It looks really pretty! I probably will never use chalk paint because I am way too cheap, but I like to hear about it, anyway. I just read an article in BHG (I think) about milk paint. Have you ever tried that??

Noble Vintage said...

I really appreciate your honest critique of the paint. Everyone in blogland is raving about it, but it's nice to hear your reviews on this. For the expense of the product and the fact that most of us have to have it shipped, it's good to know the details of how it worked for you! Your dresser is really gorgeous. I love the white knobs, and the two tone color.

Joy@aVintageGreen said...

Got to say - it looks great -
How much of the blue paint is gone from the can for this project? And, after a few days more have passed, can you write about the wax coat again - how does it feel several days later.
Thanks.

Joy

Tote said...

I love the way it turned out. But you are right, it is expensive. That is what is holding me back right now. I would love to try it though.
I used Minwax clear wax on a white bureau and it left yellow streaks. What am I doing wrong?

Susan

Cassie Bustamante said...

sharon, it turned out amazingly!!!!!
i also think it goes on stiffer than other paint, but i haven't had a thicker can yet- my friend renee got a can and she said it was so thick... i am sure they all end up slightly different. in the end, your final product is gorgeous!!!! i love teh colors you chose! and i for one like to save this paint for pieces i got free or dirt cheap because of the costof it! :)

kathie said...

I was so excited when I saw the title of your post ~ you finally got the paint (can't believe you had to wait so long). The dresser is gorgeous!! And personally, I've found that if I bring a piece inside when the wax is hard enough for it to be moved…. then wait 48 hours, it is a perfect finish. Certainly not as quick as minwax, though!

NanaDiana said...

Hi Sharon- Well, it is nice to hear what it was like using it. I did a little promo for Robyn Story today about chalk paint and free shipping. She seems to have pretty good stock of it.

I must say- no matter how hard it was to apply the outcome is gorgeous! I love it! I am anxious to try it too...and yes..it is a bit pricey. I might use it on pieces I was sure I wanted to keep!;>) xo Diana

gail@My Repurposed Life said...

the dresser is very pretty! I've never been a fan of "wax", but everyone seems to be doing it. lol
gail

BailiwickStudio said...

I think the dresser turned out beautifully, even if it was a bit of a trial! ::Jill

Anonymous said...

first, let me say happy blog birthday. And I'll be checking in to see how the next projects with chalk paint evolve. I do have some questions, but perhaps I'll send an email if you wouldn't mind. I'm also wondering if using the Annie Sloan wax is required or if Minwax or Johnson's past wax would have worked just as well? I do really like the way that the chalk paint rubs away, it leaves a very nice aged look. Nice job from where I'm sitting!

foreverdecorating said...

I was glad to read your post on this chalk paint. I just placed an order so I am also going to try this out. Your buffet is beautiful and I really appreciated your frankness on this paint and how you used it.

Yvette @ AquaSeventy6 said...

It looks fantastic. Have you buffed it with a soft cloth, yet? That will help reduce the tackiness of the wax.

Andi said...

Sharon this is absolutely beautiful!! I love the lines of the dresser and the two colors are just gorgeous!!!!

Chris at Red Gate Farm said...

Sharon thanks for the detailed info on your latest transformation! I've been thinking about trying chalk paint and have been a bit hesitant. I even know what projects I'd like to use it on! So many people just love it so I've been pretty encouraged. Since I don't have the time right now to start anything like this I'll be looking forward to your upcoming posts on additional chalk paint projects and what your opinion continues to be!

I do LOVE how this turned out though!

~Chris

Chrissie said...

Your dresser looks beautiful! I love the colors you chose and the knobs down the middle drawers are a great touch.I am so tempted to order the chalk paint. Thanks for your honest review of the chalk paint. I am looking forward to seeing your next chalk paint projects. I have a question about the soft wax, how exactly do you buff it off? Thanks!

Tara said...

I just finished several chalkpaint projects too. I really like the paint but am having more trouble with the waxes. I think I just don't know how to use that dark wax! I need to get some brushes as well because using a rag isn't working that well for me.

I didn't have any trouble getting mine shipped to me,although I need to not order it around a national holiday next time, it takes longer!
I think the dresser turned out beautiful. The Louis Blue is one of the colors I ordered too, I love it. I think we need to use it more to get more comfortable and try different techniques. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Howsewears said...

I have started using chalk paint as well. I LOVE using wax because I absolutely adore the depth it gives the paint. However, I do buff mine. It's not tacky after that. Oops. I did forget to tell you that I use Briwax instead (it's what I have on hand). Check out my blog for my opinion on chalk paint.
Fondly, Tami
www.thisandthatfromtami.blogspot.com
P.S. Your dresser is gorgeous. I'll have some upcoming projects on my blog as well.

Stacey said...

Wow! Looks amazing! Great job!
Stacey of Embracing Change

Michell @ Girl In Air said...

Oh I LOVE it!! I just got some chalk paint too and I can't wait to use it!!

Our Hopeful Home said...

Thanks for your candor. I thought I really wanted to try this paint until I saw the price plus shipping. Then I actually asked Annie Sloan about maybe getting a few free samples and doing a review. She referred me to to someone who has never even gotten back to me....so I'm a bit hesitatnt overall to fork over the bucks for this. Let us know how the rest of yor projects turn out!

Kathleen

Laurel @ Ducks in a Row said...

The color is so pretty and I am really loving the hardware! Thanks for sharing.

Deborah March said...

I agree with you about the cost of the chalk paint...even MORE in Canada! I paid over $50 a quart. GULP. Your dresser is absolutely FABULOUS...when buffed my pieces, that waxy stickiness disappeared, and it left such a lovely sheen. Following you!

Deborah March said...

Hmmm...TRIED to follow you but blogger won't let me...I'll be back to try again!

The Splendiferous Life said...

I love how your piece turned out..I have been wanting to try the chalk paint and just got Annie's book in the mail yesterday...thank you for your feedback on your project..good to know.

time worn interiors said...

I've been wondering about this paint! Glad you gave your honest opinion! I can't imagine the paint being any different that regular flat paint, but what do I know. I've been painting and waxing furniture for over 12 years, not so much any more, so that's why I was curious! Your dresser turned out great! It's my experience when something is waxed and you need to clean it the wax comes off, and if it the dark wax it sticks out like a sore thumb. Have you ever experience this? Have a great weekend!
Tot

Lori @ Katies Rose Cottage Designs said...

It came out so pretty! I love the look of the colors with white ~ I am glad to hear another perspective on Chalk Paint because I just keep debating about it :)
I am looking forward to seeing more projects that you do ~

xoxo
Lori

Debra@CommonGround said...

Hi Sharon, this really did turn out to be a knockout. It's gorgeous. Love how you used the two colors together. I have'nt tried chalk paint yet, can't decide. Thanks for the pro and con list, and thanks for linking up for the party! xoxo Debra

Reenie said...

WOW!! That turned out beautiful.

Funky Junk Interiors said...

I appreciate your honestly. Everything painted in chalk paint photographs beautifully but I too wondered about the wax feel afterwards. Would buffing it moreso have removed more of the residue feeling I wonder? Not sure I like that part either... hmmmm...

But it does look wonderful! Love the two tone effect you've achieved.

(I'm going to be sending out your package very soon! Gah...)

Donna

Sommer said...

This turned out just beautiful! Absolutely breath taking. I love this two toned color and damn I can't wait to try some chalk paint. Please come share this at my party this weekend! http://designergarden.blogspot.com/p/where-i-link-up.html

Unknown said...

Thank you for your honesty! I have several cans of this paint and have used it on several projects.

I, for one, am not that enamoured with it and the hoopla out there is starting to bother me. I have noticed that all the linky parties are FILLED with projects using about 3of the colors. I miss the diversity of paint colors and ideas that I was enjoying on the blogs.

I can't tell who is getting their paint for free and who is paying. I have my suspicions that part of the crazy positive reviews has something to do with sponsorships, advertising dollars or something of that nature.

I did have fabulous results on a four poster bed. I used Fiddles and Sons wax and buffed it. Ask Marian Parsons about where you can get the wax.

Your dresser is lovely. Truly. Will be watching to see others....

JENNY K. said...

The dresser turned out beautiful! I too am skeptical. I'm not sure I want to spend the $ on chalk paint. I've been deliberating and deliberating.

InMyOwnStyle said...

Hi Sharon-

Even if you are unsure about chalk paint - the results sure look beautiful. You did a fantastic job. It is a very pretty piece. Thanks for your honest review. I have thought about doing two big corner cabinets with it, but I think I better try something small first. You will have to let us know if the waxy feel goes away or not.

My best - Diane

Sherry @ No Minimalist Here said...

Hi Sharon, I appreciate your honest review of this paint. I have been on the fence about ordering it for a while since it is very expensive for just a quart. I was wondering how much of the paint it took to do the dresser? The piece looks beautiful and I will be checking back to see what other painting projects you do with the chalk paint.
Hugs,
Sherry

Honey at 2805 said...

You did a lovely job, Elizabeth! And I appreciate the paint review. I've wanted to try it, but frankly the price has held me back.

Carrie Beck said...

I love how your first chalk paint project turned out and look forward to seeing more. I have used the paint and I love most of the colors that I have used (not a fan of the Graphite). I know that it is expensive, but so far I have not had to sand or prime any of my pieces. My can of Old White is almost gone. I have been able to paint several pieces with 2 coats from that can. It has gone really far. I have only used the clear wax because I'm not really crazy about the look of the dark. I use a buffer on my furniture and the finish feels like something out of a furniture store. All the pieces except the grey chairs in my profile picture are painted in the chalk paint.
The closest place for you to buy paint and supplies is at On A Whim in Lucketts, VA. Celeste is the stockist. She is awesome and will help you with any problems you may be having with the paint and wax. She has also started a blog: Catfish Creative Furnishings.
P.S. I'm not getting paid to say this. LOL

Carrie Beck said...

I love how your first chalk paint project turned out and look forward to seeing more. I have used the paint and I love most of the colors that I have used (not a fan of the Graphite). I know that it is expensive, but so far I have not had to sand or prime any of my pieces. My can of Old White is almost gone. I have been able to paint several pieces with 2 coats from that can. It has gone pretty far. I have only used the clear wax because I'm not really crazy about the look of the dark. I use a buffer on my furniture and the finish feels like something out of a furniture store. All the pieces except the grey chairs in my profile picture are painted in the chalk paint.
The closest place for you to buy paint and supplies is at On A Whim in Lucketts, VA. Celeste is the stockist. She is awesome and will help you with any problems you may be having with the paint and wax. She has also started a blog: Catfish Creative Furnishings.
P.S. I'm not getting paid to say this. LOL

Katie @ Wildwood Creek said...

Your dresser turned out beautiful. Love the color combo. Thanks for being honest about the chalk paint. I've used it on a few projects and have some mixed feelings as well. The paint is very thick, and I was wondering if it would go on easier if it was thinned. I do have to say I love Annie Sloan's Soft Wax. The first three waxes I tried streaked terribly. I then bit the bullet and ordered the soft wax, and it goes on like a dream. It is very soft compared to the other waxes and so much easier to apply and buff with no streaking. I hope you continue to give us feedback on the chalk paint. Maybe we just need some tips on how to use this paint since it is a little bit different.

At The Picket Fence said...

This was a great post Sharon! I love how honest you were about it all and you are someone with tons of experience doing these projects so your advice is rock-solid! :-) It truly turned out just beautifully and you always share something I'm pretty sure should be living at my home! LOL!
Vanessa
P.S. Thanks for sharing it at Inspiration Friday!

Allison@FabRehab said...

I love the dresser!! Love! Thank you for your honest reviews on chalk paint. I too am thinking of trying it...but the price makes me pause. I can't wait to see your next project!

Ann from On Sutton Place said...

Thanks for a great post on the Chalk Paint. I'm in your row at Sunday Showcase. I have a can of Annie paint waiting to be opened. I was going to try painting a TV cabinet but now I'm wondering if I shouldn't start out with a smaller project. I also didn't order the wax or brush. Decisions, decisions! Have a great Sunday...~Ann

vicki p said...

thanks for your honest opinion. i, too, have been trying to decide about spending the $$ on the paint and will probably start out with one quart to experiment with. your piece turned out beautifully!

Jane@Cottage at the Crossroads said...

I have been interested in this chalk paint and I appreciate you giving us your honest opinion on the paint. Your piece is beautiful and I am looking forward to seeing more posts about your future projects using this paint.

c.w.frosting said...

This came out beautiful! Love the two white detail. I've been curious to try chalk paint too, so thanks for sharing the details of your experience =)

-caroline @ c.w.frosting

Marianne said...

Hi Sharon,
It came out great. The chalk paint is definitely different than what we are used to painting with. I did have a problem with the dark wax being too dark....I didn't put a clear coat on first, maybe that was the reason. As for it still feeling waxy, did you buff it really good, if not, try buffing it again. I found that until I gave my pieces a good buffing it still felt waxy. Can't wait to see your other pieces.
Marianne :)

Allison {A Glimpse Inside} said...

Well, even though it took so long to get the paint, it turned out beautifully!
Thanks for linking up to this week's Catch a Glimpse party.

Tootsie said...

awesome this is right up my alley! I am a new follower from the dittle dattle hop...hope you will pop over soon! I do furniture/decorating etc and I garden!

Courtney ~ French Country Cottage said...

Hi there- thanks for a great honest review of the chalk paint- I haven't tried it yet - it always looks pretty though. Your dresser is lovely- thanks for sharing this at FNF :)

Lori Lucas said...

Ditto. Ditto. Ditto. ...On everything you said. I have tried three different projects and "like" it and the results so far, but not feeling the LOVE....You know what I mean? Great...(and daring!) post! Lori L

Vicki Shoemaker said...

The dresser looks really, really great, and your critique is good. This is why we give workshops too to work out any 'bugs' in the studio before we get home and do large projects. If you live near a stockist I encourage people to take a workshop and learn how to work with the paint and wax in different ways. Yes, I am a stockist and yes, I love the paint, but I wouldn't be one if I didn't. I only deal with the best paint in my studio and this is one of them! I will say the wax is soft and dries slowly. This is a good thing, and the fumes are not going up your nostrils when you are applying it! LOL Because it dries slowly, it will seem tacky longer, but after it has been on there a week or so and buffed, it is a hard furniture finish. So are there any colors or techniques that somebody would like to see in any particular combination? I will do samples and post on my blog - become a follower and I will be adding a contest soon! Keep painting! Vicki - 3 Oaks Studio

Megan Gunyan said...

Ah, so lovely! I love the wonderful paint job you did. It's a beautiful piece!

Extra! Extra! Blog All About It said...

Beautiful! I love the blue paint, too. I've been wondering if this paint was worth the purchase and wait so I appreciate your review. My parents had a similar dresser, but with the paint it looks so chic! I still love the mahogany look of theirs and with 50 years of patina, it's gorgeous. Great job! I found you from The DIY Showoff's project parade.

XO,

Kimberly

Mary Ann Pickett said...

The colors you selected are really lovely...like the contrast of the blue and cream...and your new pulls. Sorry it is still tacky. I appreciate you telling us your candid thoughts. I think I will try it...after I check out the price.

Jilly said...

People keep this furniture in smaller spaces. This kind of furniture completely fit in your home. You get enough space in your home with chic furniture.
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Maury @ Life on Mars said...

It looks great! I love the dark wax. I didn't even know that was available. I can't wait to try this stuff, I just have to find the project that I'm willing to spend that kind of money on.

Dana Bishop said...

Absolutely love the desk. You did a wonderful job. I am having trouble with the wax. It seems a bit tacky and hard to rub out. But I truly love the job you did and the color.

Dana
www.northwesttexas.blogspot.com

SheilaG @ Plum Doodles said...

Just saw this over at Miss Mustard Seed's party- it looks great! I really appreciate the honest recap on the chalk paint- it helps to know what to expect. I bought some pure white, but haven't tried it on any big projects yet.

SheilaG @ Plum Doodles said...

Just saw this over at Miss Mustard Seed's party- it looks great! I really appreciate the honest recap on the chalk paint- it helps to know what to expect. I bought some pure white, but haven't tried it on any big projects yet.

One Shabby Old House said...

Your project should make you very proud. It's beautiful. I have been painting furniture for years and my goodness it seems I am trying something new all the time. I have been using the ASCP now for a couple of months. I got mine from Robyn Story in Tampa. I took the class too which was so much fun. I still have mixed feelings and probably that is because painting is my little business and it's expensive and a lot more time consuming with all the waxing and buffing. The finished result hooks me every time tho. However here is something that I just discovered today. You can actually seal/burnish the chalk paint by using 1500 grit sandpaper without the wax. I probably would use the wax on top surfaces but the rest with get a good sanding. And you will find that that waxy feel will go away but you really have to use some elbow grease. Good luck to you with future projects and as far as stockists go...I think very highly of Robyn Story. She is a doll to work and an amazing interior designer! You can find her on FB and she has a blog.

One Shabby Old House said...

PS...1500 is an auto grade sand paper