After spending $45 and a half day drive on a quart of brand name chalk paint, I was determined to find the BEST Homemade Chalk Paint Recipes for a cost efficient alternative.
If you’re interested in mixing your own chalk paint to save yourself time and money, read on because I discovered a bunch of interesting stuff I wasn’t made aware of on other blogs.
I tried four (4) of the most popular Homemade Chalk Paint Recipes and the results surprised me and left me with a hands-down fave! In sharing my experience, I hope it helps you decide which DIY recipe is right for you.
So let’s start my countdown…. 😉
Baking Soda Recipe
2/3 cup Paint
1/3 cup Baking Soda
Mix really well
My least favourite is the baking soda recipe.
When applying this Homemade Chalk Paint, (HMCP) it had a very gritty texture despite a thorough mixing. I could actually see the tiny granulars in the paint as I was applying each coat.
I was worried it wouldn’t sand down properly, but it turned out just fine…. whew! Here’s what it looks like after the final sanding/distressing.
Although Baking Soda Chalk Paint is listed last on my countdown, it’s perfect if you’re trying to achieve an old weathered, distressed “country” looking piece of furniture.
Deana at Alchemy Fine Living has a great video showcasing a dresser painted with the Baking Soda Chalk Paint Recipe.
Baking Soda Chalk Paint Cost – $1.69 for a box of baking soda which can be used for another 5 single chalk paint recipes + cost of latex paint
Time Involved – No time was spent on the purchase because I always have baking soda in my kitchen. 2-3 minutes to mix it thoroughly into the paint.
Application – Grainy look and feel even when mixed thoroughly.
Adhesion & Coverage – Great! No priming or sanding required and great coverage. Good coverage after 2 coats but I applied 3.
Odour – No odour other than the latex paint it’s mixed with.
Clean Up – Cleans up like regular latex. Not as easy as 100% green brand name chalk paint.
Distressing – Requires sanding. Not as effortless as brand name chalk paint (ie distressing with dampened cloth).
Finish – The finished look is chalky but not quite as smooth as brand name chalk paint.
Non-Sanded Grout Recipe
1 cup Paint
2 Tbsp Unsanded Grout
Water to mix Grout
Number 3 on my list is the Unsanded Grout Recipe.
I mixed the grout with the water, then once smooth, added it to the paint. It looked and applied like a brand name chalk paint. It dried fast (within 1/2 hour), and the finish was just as “chalky” as the store bought.
It had a bit of a weird odour…ok…really weird. But because it was applying so beautifully, I wasn’t bothered by it too much.
Fabulous! … so why is it listed No.3 on my list?
This DIY Homemade Grout version started to thicken up while I was applying my first coat…. it turned more like thick icing than paint.
I had to keep mixing it while I was painting and eventually had to add more water because it was too thick. The next day it had really congealed and more water was needed. Take a look… it just kept turning into a thick mess!
Here is the before and after. The table on the left is painted with Baking Soda HMCP and the table on the right is painted with Unsanded Grout HMCP. Can you see a difference?
Unsanded Grout Chalk Paint Cost – $17.99 for a large 10lb bag which will last a zillion single recipes + cost of latex paint
Time Involved – Easy to find Non-Sanded Grout on-line or at any Lowe’s, Home Depot, Rona, Canadian Tire or any on-line home reno store. Note – Grout comes in different colours. You want to buy white unsanded grout. Why? If you add a coloured grout to your paint, it may alter your paint’s hue. 3-5 minutes to measure and mix it thoroughly into the water and paint.
Application – Fabulous… until it started thickening up. Then time was spent mixing it and adding additional water to obtain the right consistency.
Adhesion & Coverage – Great! No priming or prep required and it had full coverage after 3 coats. The more water I added, the thinner the coverage.
Odour – It had a weird smell. I’d love to explain it to you but I don’t know what to compare it to?
Distressing – Requires sanding. Not as effortless as with a brand name chalk paint (ie rubbing with dampened cloth).
Clean Up – Cleans up like regular latex (brand name chalk paint cleans up much easier)
Finish – The finished look is exactly like a brand name chalk paint. Smooth, chalky and lovely.
Plaster of Paris Recipe
3 parts Paint
1 part Plaster of Paris
Water to mix
My number 2 pick is the Plaster of Paris recipe.
I made a smooth paste with the plaster of paris and water before mixing it into the paint. When mixed well, it was silky smooth and applied just as nicely as brand name chalk paint.
The second day it did thicken a little and appeared a little grainy, but after a thorough mixing it was fine.
The left over paint was stored in a glass pickle jar and used again 2 weeks later.
Plaster of Paris Chalk Paint Cost – $6.oo for a large box which will last for a looong time + cost of latex paint
Time Involved – Easy to find Plaster of Paris on-line or at any Lowes, Home Depot, Rona, Canadian Tire or craft store. 3-5 minutes to measure and mix it thoroughly into the water and paint.
Application – Fabulous! The consistency was great and it applied like brand name chalk paint.
Adhesion & Coverage – Great! No priming or prep required. Applied 3 coats for compete coverage.
Odour – None other than the latex paint used.
Distressing – Requires sanding. Not as effortless as with a brand name chalk paint (ie rubbing with dampened cloth).
Clean Up – Cleans up like regular latex (brand name chalk paint clean up is much easier)
Finish – The finished look is exactly like a brand name chalk paint. Smooth, chalky and lovely.
I used the Plaster of Paris Chalk Paint Recipe to re-purpose an old sewing table into a little girl’s desk. What do you think?
Calcium Carbonate
2 parts paint
1 part Calcium Carbonate
My hands down #1 choice was the Calcium Carbonate Recipe…which makes good sense since Calcium Carbonate is chalk!
It mixed into the paint easily, had the perfect consistency, coverage was fantastic, dried within 30 minutes, AND left me with a perfect chalky finish. I stored the left over paint in a yogurt container and it kept the same consistency for days. (I did stir it vigorously each time before use.)
The only downfall to my #1 choice was I had a difficult time finding it! Not many stores sell it in powder form and the pill form won’t work even if you grind them up.
My local pharmacy ordered it in for me and I picked it up 4 days later. Since then, I’ve found a good grade Calcium Carbonate On-line and will be ordering from the comfort of my home. 🙂
As I mentioned above, the Plaster of Paris recipe was used to re-purpose the sewing table into a desk, but I used the Calcium Carbonate Chalk Paint to paint the matching chair. Can you tell the difference?
Calcium Carbonate Chalk Paint Cost – $11.99 for a 500g container which I’m almost finished. I’ve painted 1 chair, a large desk (NOT the one shown above) and 2 large chalk board frames. I have enough left over for another small/medium project. Out of all four(4) recipes, Calcium Carbonate is the least economical. However, comparing it to brand name chalk paints, the cost difference is still pennies on the dollar in this recipes favour! + cost of latex paint
Time Involved – Took me 2 weeks to track this stuff down! I searched Shoppers Drug Mart, Health Food Stores, Organic Stores and finally asked at my local pharmacy. Next time, I’ll be ordering it on-line! 3-5 minutes to measure and mix it thoroughly into the paint.
Application – Fabulous…exactly like brand name chalk paints.
Adhesion & Coverage – Great! No priming or prep required and the coverage was fantastic. It dried faster than the Plaster of Paris (within 20 minutes) because no water was added.
Odour – None, other than the latex paint used.
Distressing – Requires sanding. Not as effortless as with a brand name chalk paint (ie rubbing with dampened cloth).
Clean Up – Cleans up like regular latex (brand name chalk paint clean up is much easier)
Finish – The finished look is exactly like a brand name chalk paint. Smooth, chalky and beautiful!
So the Best Homemade Chalk Paint Recipe… Calcium Carbonate!
Although these HMCP recipes are not 100% green, the coverage and finish are VERY comparable to brand name chalk paints. In researching all my options, I also learned Wall Texture, Limestone and Whitening Powder can be used to make chalk paint.
I wish I knew who to give credit to for the above recipes. Whoever originally came up with them… thank-you… absolutely BRILLIANT!!!!
Still undecided which DIY recipe you’re going to try? You can read more HMCP Tips here.
If you have a HMCP experience you’d like to share or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment and I’ll get right back to you!
Enjoy your day & happy painting.
Denise
Caroline Kelly says
Hi there! Fab blog! I’m working on a bookshelf using your PP HMCP recipe and its so so gritty. I have stirred and mixed the snot out of it. What am I doing wrong? Thanks!
Denise says
Thanks Caroline. 🙂 If your Plaster of Paris is lumpy, try sifting it prior to adding or use warm water and make a smooth paste prior to adding it to your paint. Also, I use a blender and find it works like a charm.
Helmut Lim says
If I paint it on galvanized metal…. do I need a primer?
Denise says
Galvanized metal is often used to create magnetic chalk boards and works wonderful with chalkpaints. However, as it’s a shiny surface with no tooth for paint to adhere to, (and a light sanding may eventually lead to rusting) I would suggest applying a primer. There are water based primer(s) specific for galvanized metal Helmut.
Lisa says
Just to be sure I am reading this correctly, you don’t need to add water to the calcium carbonate mixture?
Denise says
Correct Lisa. If you use the finest grade CC, no water is needed before thoroughly mixing it into your paint. Having said this, I know some people prefer mixing with a little water and this will not harm the recipe.
Jane says
I mixed gesso 50/50 with latex paint. Gesso is available at art supply stores. It’s made from calcium carbonate, glue and usually titanium white pigment. It is also available in gray, black and clear. The clear seems to have a little more tooth so mix that one at a 30/70 ratio gesso/paint.
This hmcp recipe is very close to name brand chalk paint at a very low price point.
Cathi says
Wow – what great information! After spending so much money on brand name chalk paint I am excited to try your recipes with some of my favourite latex paint colours! You mention “poly” for an alternate to wax to finish – what exactly is poly? And do you have a brand of wax you recommend or a recipe to make your own? Excited to get started – thanks for sharing so much info!
Denise says
Hi Cathi! Poly is short form for Polyurethane (oil based) or Polycrylic (water based). I use waterbased Poly ie Minwax Polycrylic, Varathane or General Finishes. All three are excellent products. 🙂
Victoria says
Hi,
I’m looking at a finished knotty pine hutch on Craigslist and would like to try a chalk paint redo. Will the factory finish be enough of a shellac/poly coating to stop the bleeding or should I apply another coat just to be sure? Thanks for your help; I found your blog super informative!
Denise says
The factory finish may be enough to stop the bleed through Victoria but unfortunately you can never really tell until you start painting. Dark paint colors aren’t that big of a concern. But if you start painting it a light color and notice any bleeding, stop and apply a shellac right away. Good luck with your Craigslist hutch… sounds like a fun project!
Alice says
Thanks for the great ideas!! I made the baking soda recipe and painted up a chair; looks great. Followed that with the tinted wax finish; very cool idea and looks great. But the paint chips easily; I did sand the chair before I started and light sanded in between coats of paint. Any suggestions for the chipping issue?
My sis spray painted a chair and also has chipping issues; do we need to prime it first?
Denise says
Hmmm, you shouldn’t need to prime first… especially if your sanding? May I ask what brand/type of paint your using Alice?
Alice says
I used the baking soda recipe from your site…
Alice says
Just FYI…I used a spray polyurethane on it and did 2 fine coats and that seems to have sealed it nicely and solved the chipping problem…even tho the can said it wouldn’t adhere to waxed furniture.
Aimee says
I made a recipe from a different site (before I found yours) that was PP/CC combined. It painted on just fine, although it was much thicker than I expected and kept thickening up each time I added water to thin it. My biggest issue was brush clean up. I used two different Purdy brushes, and I cannot get the gunk out of the bristles…it’s totally caked up. A friend had a similar issue when using just the PP. Am I missing something?? All I read is how easy this stuff is and that clean up is a snap. I can’t keep ruining good brushed and would love your feedback!
Thanks!
Denise says
Hmmm…I’ve never had an issue with cleaning my brushes with any of the above recipes Aimee. Warm water and Dawn dish soap work very well. Having said that, I’ve never combined Plaster of Paris w Calcium Carbonate. Here’s an article that may be helpful. https://salvagedinspirations.com/clean-dry-paint-from-your-brushes/
Kip says
Hi Denise, can you describe the sanding process. Do you just wait until it dries then lightly hand sand all over with 180 grit paper until you get the look you want?
Denise says
That’s correct Kip. Unlike brand name chalk/mineral paints, wet distressing is not possible with HMCP. I use a very fine 400 grit to sand/smooth my entire piece and then I use a 220 grit or finer to distress. I start with a very light hand sanding in the areas I want distressing and then gauge from there. I find it’s better to lightly distress first because you can always go back and add more distressing if need be.
Alicia says
Is there a particular spray gun you could recommend? I ordered the CC and ca’t wait for it to get here 🙂 Renovating our house…and this will be used ALOT!!! Thanks for sharing your wisdom….love ur site BTW!!!!
Denise says
Thanks Alicia! I’ve been spraying my furniture with this Husky HVLP Paint Gun. Love it!
michelle says
Hi. Can I use plaster of paris mixed with flat latex paint in a paint spayer?
Denise says
Yes you can Michelle! The key to getting a great finish with you spray-gun is mixing & thinning the DIY Chalk/Mineral Paint properly. And then a really good cleaning of your gun right after spraying. https://salvagedinspirations.com/spraying-diy-chalk-mineral-paint/
Colleen says
What is the advantages of chalk paint over regular latex or oil base? Have you used it on old walls, old vinyl floors, or wood trim around windows?
Denise says
The main advantages of using chalky paints (CP) over regular latex/oil based is less prep ie sanding, priming and the overall matte finish. Because CP is so porous, it NEEDS a topcoat! Many furniture re-stylists prefer protecting with wax because it provides a lovely silky smooth finish that is sought after on furniture, cupboards etc. Although I love using CP on my re-styled furniture, I wouldn’t necessarily use it for my walls, floors, or trim. Reason being is CP’s are very porous. For high traffic areas, I would prefer to use a satin latex that does not require sealing and still be easy to wipe down and clean.
Colleen says
I am wondering about the finish when used on fabric. I have a sectional that I wish to do. It is currently white, upholstery weight, woven texture. How will the paint effect the feel/texture of the fabric?
Tanya says
Just finished my first ever chalk paint project on a $10 yard sale hutch and I love it. I put on 2 coats of the PP HMCP and then painted on stain and wiped it off. Not sure if I should poly or wax it. It’ll be used in my kitchen as a moving island for food prep and storage. What would you suggest?
Denise says
Your $10 hutch project sounds amazing Tanya! My preference for high traffic items in a kitchen is poly. Apply the poly once and you don’t have to worry about it for years. Wax will often need reapplying.
Amy Scherer says
What grade of sand paper do you use to distress?
Denise says
It really depends on the paint, how many coats have been applied, and what type of distressed ‘look’ I’m after. A 220 grit is what I seem to use most of the time…sometimes finer but never courser because I don’t want to ruin my finish around the distressed area(s).
christine says
Hi Denise,I have really enjoyed reading all your helpful mixes on chalk paints. I have painted and sold many pieces of shabby chic furniture using latex paint only and then distressing. I would like to try the chalk paint, but is there a lot of difference and what are the benefits?
Thank you Denise, and have a wonderful , from Perth Western Australia
Denise says
Hi Christine from Western Australia! The difference between chalk/mineral paint and latex paint is the finish. A chalky paint finish is matte, porous and durable. It lends itself to a silky sheen finish when topped with wax. It has great adhesion and unless working with a glossy/shiny surface, often does not require sanding. Latex (even if using flat/eggshell sheen) is not as porous or matte and benefits from a poly topcoat for additional durability. Both can provide beautiful results so it’s all a matter of personal preference. All the best with your business. 🙂
Kristy says
Awesome recipes, thank you! I’ve been using the unsanded grout recipe and I knew about the plaster of paris one, but I’ve never even heard the other two- definitely a must try as you’re absolutely correct about the grout recipe lumping up and not keeping well. I also wanted you to know that I’m starting a new blog and I mentioned this article and linked back to it in a post I wrote about DIY chalkboard paint. Thank you again for the awesome info!
Denise says
Thanks so much for the share Kristy.. and I love your art/site! My ‘headquarters’ are in Ontario (GTA) so I can so relate to the pic of your Michigan winter! Oh… and I often work in my pajamas, and at the time of writing this, my sink is full of dirty dishes too…lol. Kindred spirits… nice connecting with you. 🙂
Ken says
How much does the colour change after adding CC or Plaster of P? If you have a navy blue how light does it get?
Denise says
If mix in thoroughly and properly Ken, there should be no color change.
Bonnie says
Great post! When refinishing furniture to sell, do you feel confident in the DIY chalk paint or do you feel like the expensive brands (GF, ASCP) are necessary? Thanks!
Denise says
Hi Bonnie! I’ve been using HMCP and Brand Name CP for almost 2 years, and I’m 100% confident when using my custom ChalkPaints.
Bonnie says
Thank you for your reply! Gave me the reassurance I needed. I want to provide a quality product for my clients and feel confident when I chose to use my own HMCP. Some vendors make claims that if you’re not using brand names, you’re compromising. I am consistently pleased with the adhesion, coverage of HMCP and appreciate your input considering your expertise.
Spryte says
I bought a nice wooden dresser. Unfortunately, someone had painted it with a dark turquoise gaudy gloss, some of which had peeled off to show a white finish below it. What would you recommend doing before using the white paint on it?
Spryte says
I meant to say before using the chalk paint on it. I’m planning to use a light “cucumber” green.
Denise says
I would highly recommend sanding the piece to remove the gloss and even out all the chipping Spryte. Also, often when I work on a very dark piece and paint it white, I’ll use a primer. This ensures the dark paint is covered and saves me from painting a few extra coats of paint to get an opaque/clean white.
Spryte says
Thanks for your help!
Mary says
Hello Denise,
This will be my first attempt at chalk painting. I have the ingredients: Calcium carbonate and Sherwin Williams black paint. I read on a different website that its important to soak the calcium carbonate in distilled water prior to mixing with paint so it has a smooth, non gritty consistency. Have you tried this or do you just mix the dry powder directly into the paint? Also. If I mix the black paint with a white powder will the color become grey? I’m painting an antique Piqua oak desk
(Some folks might think this crazy, but its beat up and stained) and don’t want to ruin it! Anybody have ideas for good alternatives to clear and dark wax. Annie Sloan’s are so expensive.
Denise says
Hi Mary. Your black should not change color when adding the Calcium Carbonate but white specks may appear if the CC is not properly mixed into your black paint. Adding water to ensure a smooth texture when using a black or very dark color can help remedy this. 🙂
jennyfer says
hi denise 🙂 i think this is the top best blog on chalk paint around the whole web 🙂 thank you so much for sharing all your know-how 🙂 however, i’m presently having troubles with a recipe i found elsewhere with cc where the ratio is 1:4 = 4 parts paint + 1 part cc and it does not work although the recipe’s fan keep telling me they get gorgeous results… i’m through with a first coat with poor results. do you think i could just send a bit and get on with your 1:2 recipe from now onwards ? thanks a lot and many hugs from very rainy italy (that’s where i live) enjoy the weekend 🙂
Denise says
Hi Jennyfer! A big hello back from “snowy” Toronto! 🙂 If your first coat has properly and fully adhered, there should be no reason why you can’t give it a sanding and then increase the Calcium Carbonate in your CP Recipe to finish your piece. All the best!
Nancy says
I would like to revamp an ottoman that has a faux leather top.
I’ve seen faux leather makeovers on Pinterest. Do you have any experience with this? Any recommendations before I take on this task? TIA
Denise says
Hi there Nancy. I have not tried painting a faux leather top but I’ve also seen some amazing leather makeovers on Pinterest… so it can be done!
trish says
Has anyone mixed branded chalk paint with HMCP? I have a tester pot which isn’t enough for my project.
Denise says
I once mixed Annie Sloan with CeCeCaldwell and then mixed both with my HMCP Calcium Carbonate Recipe. My project turned out beautiful! There were small amounts left in both cans and I didn’t want them to go to waste. I did test before applying it to my piece though!
Karen says
Wondering what kind of paint you use….with or without primer in the paint?
Denise says
I have used paint and primer in one and it does work, but I prefer a flat/eggshell paint without primer.
Rhonda says
When you say 1part Calcium Carbonate to two parts paint…exactly how much is in your one part Calcium reciepe? What is that quantity? Is it the full amount in the bottle (or link you posted) that you ordered fromAmazon?
Denise says
I mix my recipes 1 or 2 cups at a time Rhonda. No waste and I prefer working with fresh product. So, I measure 1 cup of paint and add a 1/2 cup of CC. For a larger project, I double this recipe.
Brigitte says
I plan on painting a old dresser using the CC recipe. I was wondering what was the paint color you used in the pics? Also what would you recommend finishing it with, it will be in my foyer and will just have lamps on it.
Denise says
Brigitte, I’m embarrassed to admit I don’t remember the exact color anymore. I wish I had included the color in my post (rather than in one of these comments) because I still get asked every now and then. As for a finish/top coat for your foyer piece, wax is always a great choice for porous chalkpaints. Looks amazing! If you feel it will be a high traffic piece (or need regular cleaning) in your foyer, poly is a good choice.
Luanne says
Denise, I made my First Chalk Paint by your Recipe, Plaster of Paris, It dried ‘Beautifully’, Thank You for taking the time to give information. This is the most helpful site I’ve seen!
Denise says
Thanks for sharing your results Luanne! 🙂
Debra Johnston says
I used the plaster of paris HMCP recipe and must say it didn’t turn out as I hoped. I mixed the plaster of paris first and added to the paint mixing until smooth as instructed but the finish on the bed is very grainy. I had bleed through of the wood so I applied 3 coats as well as trying to remove the brush strokes.
What is your recommendation on getting a smooth finish on the furniture?
Denise says
So sorry to hear about the graininess and bleed-through Debra. Very frustrating I know! If you’re finding it difficult to get it smooth by hand mixing, I suggest an inexpensive blender… works like a charm. And you can always add slightly more water if need be. Unfortunately bleed-through can not be fixed with numerous coats regardless of what type of paint your using. The tannin must be sealed before additional coats can be applied. You can read more on bleed-through here.
Sherrene says
Hi Denise! After reading your blog post, I took the plunge and painted my first piece of furniture with the plaster of paris recipe. I absolutely love it! I’m going to tackle a hutch next! I have a question, though: my local home improvement store recommends applying a clear coat wood finish after the wax. Do you know what the purpose of this is? Will it just add additional durability? Thanks!
Denise says
Congrats on your successful project Sherrene! As for your question, I use either or… not both. I feel there is no need for 2 products, but possibly your stores suggestions was for extra durability. A wax dries hard and protect nicely (but may need re-application down the road). A clear coat wood finish is an excellent choice for high traffic items (ie chairs/tables/kitchen cabinets). Have fun with your hutch! 🙂
Marcia Gerbode says
Hi Denise,
I have 2 questions for you.
1) Is it possible to get a satin finish when using the calcium carbonate chalk paint recipe and a higher gloss (semi gloss or high gloss) latex paint?
2) Or will wax do the trick?
Thanks for your great blog!
Marcia
Denise says
Marcia, I’ve used a semi-gloss with these recipes and it worked beautifully however the sheen is not as matte/chalky. I’ve never tried a high gloss though. And yes, wax will give you a glossy/shiny finish the more you buff it.
Holly says
I did my first project with plaster of paris recipe. I have too many bursh marks for my liking. I’ve sanded 3 times to get the look I want. How do you recommend applying it, with a roller or brush? If roller, fuzzy, or sponge?
And after it’s dry and sanded to my taste, what do you recommend to finish it? Wax or polyurethane?
Thanks.
Denise says
I don’t use rollers on my furniture Holly so I’m not comfortable recommending a roller. To reduce your brush marks, try slightly thinning your paint with water and sanding in between coats. As for sealing the paint, wax or poly works nicely. Poly is my first choice for high traffic items such as chairs and tables, and love the look of wax for my other pieces.
Joy says
I just found your blog today and am in love! I have wanted to comment on every blog post but have contained myself. I had to comment on this. I have read many homemade chalk paint blog post and had heard that I could use garden lime. So I went to my local tractor garden store. I found that it is 100% organic and non toxic. I still take precaution when mixing. The recipe that I followed was 2tsp lime powder to 1 tsp water to 1 cup paint. I tried this but it didn’t seem “chalky” enough. I added a little bit more lime. I painted a side table and it came out gorgeous! I ended up painting two coats for complete coverage. It dried very quickly. The price was even better than the paint. I purchased a 50lb bag for $7.00..yes seven dollars. My husband bought me a plastic bin to put it in.
Wendy says
Garden lime is a soil additive made from pulverized limestone or chalk. The primary active component is calcium carbonate. Thank you for sharing!
Heather Wells says
I find the paint is a bit gritty, even though i put the CC through a sieve. There is little blobs which if stroked enough disappear, but it would be easier without them. any hints on mixing?
Denise says
I mix with an inexpensive hand blender and find that works the very best for me. 🙂
Barbara says
I have not used your recipes, but was wondering if you could use chalk paint on kitchen cabinets? Thanks
Denise says
Yes you can Barbara. But I would recommend sealing with a Poly for high traffic cabinets. 🙂
joyce coker says
i would like to paint my old pine panelling in my living room-would this chalk paint work on that?
Denise says
Hi Joyce! Pine (especially knotted) often has bleed through so using a primer may be a good idea. Also, chalk paint is VERY porous and can pick up dirt, grime, grease very easily if not properly sealed. Personally, for a wall, chalk/mineral paints would not be my first choice. I would much prefer a paint that I would not have to seal and that is easy to wipe down and clean without sealing.
cindy says
I was wondering if you have ever painted fabric with any of these recipes? I’ve heard you can paint fabric with Annie Solon chalk paint. I want to try this but I don’t want to drive 40 miles and spend $40 bucks.
Denise says
Cindy, I have not tried to paint fabric with HMCP… but it’s on my to-do list. However, if you scroll through the comments section of this post, I believe others have had success! 🙂
Jane says
I read that home recipe chalk paint can be thinned with water in order for it to become more transparent. I would like to paint a wood ceiling a darker color but I would still like to be able to see the knots in the wood. Is there a recommendation for an application like this?
Denise says
Any water based paint can be turned into a ‘wash’ by thinning with water Jane. Pending on how much water is added, will depend on how transparent the wash so it’s totally in your control.
Natalie says
I just called my local UFA (unites farmers of Alberta) – farm and ranch supplies. 50 pound bag of calcium powder for $6. Very excited to try this!!!!
joy says
I tried it and i love it!
Barb says
I called my local UFA and they said that they didn’t have any calcium powder in any form. Was it under a product name, or do you know who the manufacturer/ producer is? Thx
Denise says
Barb, I’ve never purchased from a UFA. I purchase the NOW Brand Calcium Carbonate from Amazon. In the past I’ve asked my local pharmacy to order me the people grade powdered supplement.
Rachel says
You can buy calcium carbonate powder at PetSmart in the reptile section. It is a supplement for them. It comes in 4oz and 3 oz. About 9$
Nikki says
I keep bearded dragons and they need calcium carbonate powder on their food, I can get it at the reptile shop but it’s expensive. I now buy it at farm shops where it’s sold as ‘calcium meal’ or ‘chalk flour’ (I’m in UK) in the poultry section, for a fraction of the price.
Colour and texture varies a bit but a quick wizz in the coffee grinder makes it finer.
I use chalk and plaster of paris in my chalk paint (coffee grinder again) and don’t sand after. Not had any go off, but can see brush marks sometimes
Jeri says
Thank you so much for posting the information. I used your #1 recipe to make chalk paint from a quart of Glidden satin paint. It was perfect!
Rebecca says
I have noticed on amazon.com that people who have ordered calcium carbonate also ordered minwax special dark finishing paste wax and regular finishing paste wax. Will these waxes give the same finish and effect as the expensive brand name light and dark waxes?
Denise says
Yes Rebecca, the consistency of the waxes are different than the ’boutique’ waxes but the finish is just as gorgeous!
Lesleymj says
Hi, Is is just matt emulsion that can be used? I have some silk and wondered if anyone has ever tried using silk, and did it work? Thank you
Denise says
I’m going to guess that ‘silk’ is basically the same as eggshell or semi. If so, I have used both and it will work. It’s just not quite as chalky looking Lesley. 🙂
Lesleymj says
Thank you Denise. I’ll gived it a go 🙂
Julie says
Sorry for being a bit dense, but want to get it right. I’m presuming when using the ratio 1:2 that we are using volume measurements, as in, 1 cup calcium carbonate to 2 cups paint????
Denise says
Exactly Julie 🙂
Cat says
Would the Plaster of Paris product need the wax varnish type finishing that is recommended for brand name chalk paints? Does the Plaster of Paris change the color of the paint very much? Thanks for the help! Have a wonderful day!
Denise says
If properly mixed in, the plaster of paris does not change the paint color. And no, you are not limited to the brand name waxes used for brand name chalkpaints. Any brand of wax or poly will work.
Pam says
Hi Denise,
One other ratio/recipe I’ve seen online is 2 tablespoons CC and 1 tablespoon water to 1 cup of paint. That is so much less CC than your recipe and I wondered what you think the difference would be in terms of the look and finish on the painted item. Have you experimented with different ratios?
I appreciate the time you have taken in answering all of our questions.
Denise says
Yes, I’ve added a little less calcium carbonate Pam. Simply because I was running low and didn’t have the full amount…lol. You can still get a really nice finish. It’s just the finish is NOT as matte or chalky.
Katie says
I’m trying to learn everything about chalk paint before using it. It seems calcium carbonate is the way to go. everyone seems to have trouble finding it, but isn’t it just lime? Tractor supply has NALCbrite Hi-Calcium Lime 50 pound bag for six dollars. Has anyone tried this is there any reason why shouldn’t use lime? I don’t really want to store a 50 pound bag if it’s not going to work.
Hovawart says
Yes, that was what I was thinking! Easy to find at any hardware store or Habitat for Humanity Re-Store, and soooo much cheaper!
Hovawart says
Also, chalk is sold on various shelves within each hardware store or Re-Store, not just as lime. It’s used for marking lines on the ground, marking snap lines on walls, and so on.
Karen says
I have also tried both the plaster of Paris and the Calcium version and I much prefer the calcium one too. I ordered mine from Shoppers Drug Mart and they were able to get it on a special order for me within 24 hours for just a tad over $11.
Sis O'Connor says
I have corner wall in my kitchen that has red distressed brick with black mortar half way up. Could I use this chalk paint to cover it? If so which recipe would you suggest? Thank you!
Denise says
I’ve painted indoor brick with plain latex and it’s help up great! If you were to use a HMCP, I would suggest the plaster of paris or calcium carbonate.
Sis O'Connor says
Thank you so very much Denise for your input. I appreciate it!