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
Pattie says
I’ve tried to look at all the comments so not to ask a question that’s been asked before but….I have a gallon of eggshell ENAMEL. Can I make chalk paint with that type of paint? Thanks so much!
Denise says
Most definitely Pattie. It’s a good idea to make the above HMCP recipes in small batches though…then you’re always working with “fresh” paint and no waste. 🙂
Shannon says
Great article! Thanks for sharing. Just curious… do you prime anything? I had always thought paint didn’t stick to certain surfaces unless you prime first (ie. bare wood, stained wood, something painted in an oil based paint, something with a polyurethane finish etc.)
I’ve refinished a few items, and did prime them… but I would love to skip that step if possible!
Denise says
With these HMCP recipes and/or any Brand Name Chalk/Mineral Paints, there’s usually no need for sanding or priming Shannon. The exception may be if you’re going to paint a very shiny surface. A slight scuffing/sanding (to create some ‘tooth’) is recommended. However primer is still not required.
Glenda says
Denise, I’m thrilled I found your website and the wonderful information for making chalk paint. I have several small paper bags of ‘milk’ paint in a variety of colors that mixes with water. How is chalk paint different from milk paint? Also, the CC in your favorite recipe, is it the same thing people who make and can pickles use in their brine? I think it’s some sort of lime powder. Thank you, and I can’t wait to use your recipes. I have a garage full, just waiting for me to make a color choice. 🙂
Denise says
Chalk Paint is very different to work with in comparison to Milk Paint. Having said that, I love working with both because they can create very different effects! Chalk Paint has great adhesion on almost any surface without adding a bonding agent. It’s much thicker to work with in comparison to a thinner more watery Milk Paint. Milk Paint is wonderful for creating a chipped/aged patina where as Chalk Paint lends itself beautifully to a crackled or distressed look but won’t chip! The Calcium Carbonate I purchase is a Fine Pharmaceutical Grade CC which is used as a human supplement. I know others have mentioned they were going to try other types of lime powders, but I’m not sure of the results. Hope you have a lot of fun with your projects Glenda!
Anita says
Hi,
Really enjoyed reading all the recipes and comments here. I am going to paint a metal trunk. I bought a primer mix at Walmart and mixed it with a light blue/green paint sample and painted the two top squares with the primer-paint mix, then followed it with just the blue/green paint. Now I plan to cover the entire trunk with a mix of CC and a silvery eggshell, then seal it with polyurethane. I’ll let you know how it turns out.
I will use that as a base
Denise says
I would love to hear how it turns out for you Anita! Sounds beautiful! 🙂
Susan Bush says
Thanks for sharing the info on chalk paint will give these a try..next question have you tried the fabric paint if so which one worked the best …wanting to give that a try…thanks Susan
Denise says
I want to paint fabric too… but I haven’t tried it yet Susan.
kathy says
I just ordered what was called “calcium carbonate limestone”. Is this the right item, or did I order the
wrong thing?
Kathy
Denise says
I’ve haven’t tried the CC Limstone Kathy, so I’m not sure? I always order the Finest Grade CC which is used as a human grade supplement.
vicky says
Have you ever waxed with howards feed n wax ?
Denise says
I haven’t used Howard’s yet but it’s on my “I’d like to try list” because I’ve heard very good reviews!
Janet says
Thanx so much for doing all the homework for us! I just took an Annie Sloan Techniques workshop in Greenville, SC. Spent $95 for the class, and then $220 in supplies to take home! This only amounted to 2 quarts of paint, 2 waxes, 1 brush (I love this brush!!!) and some gilding wax. OUCH! I’ve begun my project refinishing an antique bedroom set and it’s looking lovely already! BUT….I can’t wait to try this after these are gone and same some $$$! You are awesome!!!
Helen Allensworth says
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!! I am going on a hunt for CC immediately and tackle those estate sale finds stacking up in the garage!! I want to use two colors…. painting 2nd color over first and then distress. Have u tried this? Any recommendation?
Denise says
Yes, I’ve distressed with 2 colors and it creates a really nice effect. Very easy to do. Sand lightly with a fine sandpaper until original shows through. Have fun Helen! 🙂
sharon says
Hi! Is one of these more suitable for painting a wall to use as a chalkboard? Cheers!
Denise says
I haven’t tried using any of these recipes for a chalkboard wall however I would guess that the Calcium Carbonate HMCP Recipe would be the best seeing as CC is “chalk”.
Anni says
Thanks a lot for your recipes, I also want to try, but have difficulties to find out, what kind of paint you used, as our colours here in Germany have different names.
Wallpaint here is an dispersionpaint.
Paint for furniture is an acrylic enamel and we have acrylic colour for crafting, but it is not the same as for furniture.
What kind of paint is the Behr paint you used? It seemed to be a acrylic enamel to me, but I found out, that it is for walls, as well and here we are not using enamels or any other varnish colours for walls.
It would be great, of you could give me an answer!
Thanks a lot in advance!
Anni
Denise says
Anni, great question! The Behr paint I used for this example is a regular latex wall paint which is the same as your dispersion wall paint in Germany. The above recipes will work well with your dispersion paints OR acrylic enamel.
Anni says
Hi,
I have now tried both options, I tried the dispersion paint for wall, which gives a very flat potic, but you can see the wax on it, as it really goes into the very dry consistency of the dispersion paint. So if you use dark wax, the white paint will be grey afterwards.
With the acryl enamel I had the same problem as Shannon had, it was really hard and you couldn’t use it with a brush. So I mixed more water in it and then stirred a lot.
Then it was, as I wanted it to be and now I really LOVE the colour and how it came out!
Thanks a lot for your answers here!!!
Kind Regards
Anni
Kirsten says
When making HMCP does mixing in calcium carbonate dilute paint color? I feel so limited by choices of name brands. I would like to keep the intensity of a bold color sometimes.
Denise says
Adding calcium carbonate does NOT dilute paint color Kristen. Opens up a world of choices! I dropped by to look at your art…FABULOUS! Love the murals and the “Noble” dog portrait!
Kirsten says
Wow Denise, thank you for the compliments! Thank you so much for writing about your research and experiments. You have saved me a world of trouble and possibly frustration. I have assumed there was a reason that the name brands carry mostly muted tones, and you have just opened up a whole world of inspiration for me. I have a big ol’ bag of calcium carbonate on the way and can’t wait to start mixing my own! Cheers! Kirsten
anne says
thank you for the chalk paint recipes I have to drive almost an hour away , and the colors I can get will be amazing. love your web site. So gald I found it.
Shannon says
Hi! I love your website, thank you so much for the recipes and information!! I am refinishing two twin headboards and footboards I picked up for free on a resale site. I used the plaster of Paris recipe and it came out super gritty (like the pic of your baking soda mixture). I stirred it until my hand cramped hoping to get the grittiness out and it never happened. Have you, or anyone else, experienced this problem?? I did get the plaster of paris from the kids craft section at Walmart so I’m wondering if that is different than the DAP kind in your picture? Thanks again for all you advice!!
Shannon 🙂
Denise says
The DAP Plaster of Paris is easy to find in any hardward store..HomeDepot/Lowes etc. and I’ve never had any problems with grittiness. It sounds like it may have been the type of Plaster of Paris you used Shannon. Another little trick, I use an inexpensive blender to really get these recipes super smooth!
cozene baker says
I have heard that you can make chalk paint using sheet rock (I guess the gypsum) and paint? What do you think?
I don’t know any thing about it – they just said to add paint with it. Thanks so much for your advice. Love it. Amature painter/deccorator
Denise says
I haven’t personally tried so I’m not sure Cozene. If you give it a go…I’d love to hear your results!
Marion Keener says
Let me get this right… add 1 cup of powdered calcium carbonate into 2 cups of a flat/ satin liquid paint. Mix well. Correct? Thanks a lot.
Denise says
Yes, if you using “cups” as your measuring tool this is exactly correct Marion!
Barbara Smith says
Am going to try my first chalk paint project and your website has been extremely helpful..seems like cc is the most desirable but other than on line (I dont order on line) where would be the most likely place to have the fine, high quality..? thanks for the helpful advice and hints.
Barbara
Denise says
You can try health food stores or your local pharmacy Barbara. My pharmacy ordered it for me and it arrived in just a few days.
Monica says
I was reading your recipes and I have been making my own using unsanded grout however I only use 1 teaspoon of unsanded grout mixed in a small amount of water then add to 1 cup of paint. I have never had it get chunky like you did. I add a small amount of water but very small and have had great results.
Marcy Mutter says
I assume you should use flat latex paint to make chalk paint? Would eggshell or satin work at all though?
Denise says
Yes, both eggshell and satin work Marcy… I have tried both with great results. With any of the above recipes, the “flatter” the latex finish, the “chalkier” the end result will be.
Tracy says
I’ve made DIY chalk paint with the chalk used to refill construction chalk lines. It work wonderfully and I was able to purchase a arge jug online.
Jean I says
Denise: just read your recipes for chalk paint and went hunting for bulk calcium carbonate and found that TrueFoodsMarket.com has a special on 50lbs for $7.99 and it looks like the regular price is $10.75. Going to try your #1 choice and excited to do so. thanks
Denise says
Thank you Jean! I hope everything turns out fabulous!!
Michael says
Denise, my sister and I purchased a metal desk for my niece’s to do homework on in her room. It has already been painted a pretty unattractive color by the previous owner and we have been gathering info from here to make it beautiful using the CC recipe. Since there isn’t any wood to expose by distressing we plan to skip that step and I also think using the polyurethane is a good idea for protection (she’s 11 and her brother is 2). Before we dive into this project over the weekend, I wanted to see if you could share any words of wisdom on painting non-wooden surfaces or are we at the point where we just cross our fingers?
Denise says
If the previous “unattractive” paint job is in good standing ie~ no peeling, chipping, drip marks etc. then my words of wisdom would be paint away and have fun Michael! 🙂 Using a polyurethane for a child’s desk is definitely the best choice. Just keep in mind if you are using a white or very light paint color, it may slightly yellow over time.
Jayme says
Lowe’s just put out this article. I found it after I read your blog, which is great by the way!
lowes.com/creative-ideas/paint-stain-and-wallpaper/diy-chalk-paint/article
Hayley says
I have just brought Whiting Calcium Carbonate 1000grams
So looking forward to painting again
And…. its 3 parts to 1 part CC?
thank you Hayley (UK)
Denise says
Hello in the UK! For the Calcium Carbonate Recipe its 2 Parts Paint to 1 Part CC. Enjoy your painting Hayley!
nancy says
I have some concerns , the calcium carbonate need to be 100% or it doesn’t matter? and to do the chalk paint with the calcium carbonate I just have to mix it just with the paint ( no water at all)
Thank you for your time and your help
Denise says
Yes Nancy, 100% Calcium Carbonate mixed directly into the paint… no water required. 🙂
Lisa says
I may be imagining this but isn’t calcium carb sold at swimming pool places by the 50lb bag? Pretty sure we buy a gigantic bag at the start of summer.
Elizabeth says
I would really like to try this on my dated bedroom furniture. I have an HVLP sprayer although I admit it – I am a bit scared to use it 😉
I have a few questions if you don’t mind –
Do you always use the same brand of flat or eggshell latex?
Do you wipe down the piece before you paint it – ie to remove hand oils or what not?
I understand that there is no pre-sanding required so, how is the durability of painted piece? Does it rub off when you open/close doors or drawers?
Does calcium carbonate have any brand names? Or do I just ask for cc?
Thanks 🙂
Denise says
I was scared to use my HVLP sprayer when I first got it too Elizabeth! I’m sure once you use it a few times you’ll start having fun! I do NOT use the same brand of paint and I’ve used different sheen’s too. Flat/matte/eggshell latex providethe “chalkiest” results regardless of brand. Yes, I always clean a piece before painting. 9/10 times a piece will not require sanding unless you are working with a super glossy surface) and the adhering and durability of HMCP is fabulous! Calcium Carbonate comes in different brands however I always use the finest-powdery-people-grade-CC which I purchase from my local pharmacy or Amazon.
Gail Parris says
Please tell me what kind of brush to use. This is my first time to paint this way. Thank you so much for your information.
Gail
Denise says
You can use ANY type of brush Gail…what ever your comfortable with or have on hand. I’ve used Dollar Store brushes, good quality Purdy brushes, and everything in-between.
Jill Seibert says
Thank you so much for these recipes. This is the best post I have seen on DIY chalk paint, and believe me I have searched. I’ve ordered some calcium carbonate powder from Amazon and am so excited to try it. I’m going to paint my desk with a blue base coat and a white top coat and distress it a little. It already looks fabulous in my head so fingers crossed it will look just as good in real life.
P.S. Love your blog!
Denise says
Thanks Jill…and have fun re-styling your desk… it sounds like it’s going to be stunning!
susan says
Thank you!!! You have saved me so much time and effort! I’ve wanted to transform pieces of furniture I have for so long from that 80’s Oak Look and traditional dining room set of Cherry into WOW! Im excited to try it out soon and will let you know how it goes! 🙂
Denise says
So glad to hear it and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you Susan! 🙂
RUTH FROM FLA. says
I’M IN THE PROCESS OF EXPERIMENTING W/ CP AND FOUND THE NAME BRAND WAY OUT OF MY PRICE RANGE!! THANKS SO MUCH FOR THIS GREAT DISCUSSION SITE!! I’M GOING TO TRY 2 OF THE RECIPES AND CHOOSE MY BEST 🙂 THANKS EVERYONE !! AND DENISE 🙂
Tre says
Hi my daughter is using calcium carbonate with matte wall paint. One piece is fine but the other chest has a yellowing through the paint… any suggestions or advice would be appreciated. Thank you. Wonderful site! x
Denise says
Hi Tre! I’ve never heard of or experienced Calcium Carbonate yellowing. May I ask what type of wood/surface she’s applying the paint to? It may be the wood is bleeding tannin in which case sealing the wood with a shellac before painting will easily get rid of this problem.
julie whiteley says
Hi thankyou so much for your recipes I have been using talcum powder in my latex and it is fab very smooth give it a go xx
Denise says
Oh how interesting Julie..Thanks for sharing! Do you have to sand the piece prior or does the talcum powder provide good adhesion?
Suzanne says
I just tried using garden lime as was suggested above since I had it on hand. It did not work at all. The grit is way too big and it didn’t break down. I will be ordering the calcium carbonate! Thank you to everyone for all of the great suggestions.
Denise says
Thank you for leaving this information Suzanne!
Glenna says
You will need to use the very fine grad of lime that is also sold for cooking but is the same as garden lime but finer. I will try that as soon as mine comes and let you know if it works, if not I will throw it out in yard… It is all the same make-up but a finer grade of lime. Sorry didn’t mean to confuse anyone, but my brain was just working overtime.. to much time on an old woman hands…
cindy says
Hi Denise…First I just want to say thank you for your terrific recipes and advice…I have only heard of chalk painting a few days ago and I was wondering exactly what it is…I hate to seem ignorant but …well here are my questions…does chalk painting make it so that the piece you are painting using latex paint is sandable making a smooth surface where you are distressing the piece…and my second question is can you polyurethane over it instead of using wax? Thank so much
Denise says
Hi Cindy…No such thing as an ignorant question! Asking is how we all learn from each-other! 🙂 Yes, chalk paint is easily sand-able to create a smooth surface and easily distressed if you choose to do so. And yes again, polyurethane can be used instead of wax. In fact, many furniture painters do use poly instead of wax because it provides a “harder” topcoat which will not need re-applying.
Kim says
Denise
Thank you so much for the recipes!!! I have a question. Can I seal my chalk painted furniture with a poly acrylic gloss??? Thanks you
Denise says
Yes… and great question Kim! When you think of using ChalkPaint, it’s usually to achieve a matte/chalky finish. However, I’ve painted with ChalkPaint (to avoid having to sand/prep) but wanted a glossy finish. This can be achieved by using a poly gloss top coat/sealer.
Julie Dunbar says
I have some white paint/primer in one that I would like to turn into chalk paint using the cc…the can notes latex / eggshell.
What results did you get with the paint primer in one?
Thank you so much for your blog.
Denise says
It works just fine Julie. I’ve used the Behr Brand Paint & Primer all in one for a few projects and have been very pleased.
Meagan says
What kind of paint is best to mix the calcium carbonate in?
Denise says
To get a nice matte/chalky finish with the Calcium Carbonate Recipe, an eggshell or matte based latex paint works best Meagan.
Glenna says
I looked up exactly what calcium carbonate is made of and it make up is called CaCO3 with the three being half way down from the O but I can’t do that on computer with knowledge of keyboards changes. having looked that up, that is lime like is used on your yard, except in a powder… you can buy 5 lbs of this on ebay for less than 10.00. It has exactly the same properties as the one you are listing in the small bottle as I looked its properties up also. Do you think this would work… I know what you buy in garden centers is pellet form and would not work,,, but just trying to get the most for the money here..
I have been reading all about chalk paint for the last few days and today will pick up some bed side tables to try it on… so I am still in the process of getting my supplies also. I love reading about all the different ways you have made this product and I am always looking for a better and pocket book friendly way to do things.
Denise says
Great info Glenna! If the properties are identical and the powder is as “fine” as the food grade, it may work perfectly fine. However, I wouldn’t want to say for sure because I haven’t personally tried it. I know other readers have purchased Calcium Carbonate used for gardens, baseball fields, live-stock and many other uses but I haven’t heard any feedback on how it worked in their chalky paint. I’m going to stick with what I KNOW works until I feel adventurous enough to try something different..lol! If you give it a try Glenna, I’d love to hear how your tables turn out for you! 🙂
Jacqui says
For almost a year I’ve been trying all kinds of paints and concoctions to have a paint smooth enough for my dollhouse miniature furniture. Thankfully I ran across your post and tried the CC mixture with a valspar satin paint and it went on like smooth butter. It does leave a bit of a shine though so I’m wondering if I should still use a wax finish over it? I’m going to try the acrylic paint tonight to see what the difference will be. You’ve been a life saver for me.
Thanks a bunch!!!!!
Denise says
I’m so glad you left this comment Jacqui and I’m sure a lot of people will be happy to hear your results! There has been some prior discussion that mixing the Valspar brand into a HMCP recipe may or may not work. I’ve never tried a homemade CP recipe with Valspar so I never knew how to respond. Now I can direct others to your comment. Thank YOU!
Jacqui says
I’m the one to be THANKING YOU Denise!!! Satin Valspar works perfectly! I tried the CC in my acrylic paint as I said I would. I looked for a flat acrylic and the only thing close to it is any bottle “NOT” marked satin or gloss. Using the exact same ratio I did with the Valspar, I found the mixture comes out much thicker but looks exactly like chalk paint and dries very fast. The clean-up is also quicker. The next batch of acrylic HMCP I make I think I’ll use a bit less of the CC and see how that works. I guess I could just add a bit of water but I don’t think that’s too good for professional miniatures. Lastly, the type of acrylic paint I bought is by “Craftsmart: and just says “acrylic paint” on the bottle with no “satin” or “gloss” labeling. Hope that helps one of your questioners who inquired about the acrylic.
Denise says
Fabulous feed back Jacqui… I really appreciate it and I’m sure many other will too!
Carol says
In a past post, they said they used Craftsmart Acrylic Paint. Is this paint a 2 oz. bottle that you get in MICHAELS or A?C? Moore.? Do you add this to Behr or any other Brand Latex Paint? And what amounts ( I am using the PLASTER of PARIS). Used it today over a framed mirror over Bronze Acrylic Paint, not knowing I would do this CHALK paint. It came out GREAT 2 coats and added some colorful rhinestones glue gunned it. Please let me know. Thanks for this WEBSITE. Love IT Carol
Denise says
So happy your mirror turned out great Carol! I’m not sure what the person who left the comment used however you do NOT need to add Acrylic paint to your Behr or latex paint. If you are using the Plaster of Paris recipe, add 1/4 cup plaster to 3/4 cup paint. Before adding the P of P to the paint, add in enough water to mix it into a SMOOTH pancake batter mixture.. then mix this in thoroughly to your paint.
sa says
Love your recipes for chalk paint. Have your tried using it on upholstered chairs? Someone recommended using chalk paint on the fabric, because chalk paint could be used on fabric….(or so they said) I want to paint these chairs due to the cost of upholstering. The fabric is in excellent shape.
Denise says
Painting fabric with Chalk Paint is on my “to-do-list” but I haven’t tried it yet. I’ve heard that Annie Sloan and other similar brands do a great job at covering fabric and that’s probably what I’ll start with. If I like the results, I’ll give it a go with a HMCP recipe and compare the difference. I’d love to hear your results if you try it on your chairs!
Jane says
What about wax? Which brand or you using to make it sit? Like Annie sloan clear wax?
Denise says
The soft waxes such as Annie Sloan or CeCe Caldwell are really nice to work with. For a more cost efficient alternative, I also like to use Minwax Furniture Paste which provides a nice protection/sheen.
Ellen says
Would you share the color name/brand that you use on the pieces that you painted? Thanks! Love your recipes!
Denise says
Ellen, these were painted with Behr Cottage White #1813.
Kerry says
Love this and am so excited to try. A couple questions are: 1. Do you prefer a certain brand of paint and what sheen works best? And what grit of sanding do you use before sealing? Thank you so much!
Denise says
Kerry, I don’t have a favorite brand of paint (I’ve used many!) but I do prefer using an eggshell or flat finish with these recipes. For the sanding, between 220-400 works nicely.
Jill says
Could a lath and plaster wall with imperfections be painted with chalk pant to achieve a more even look?
Thank you for sharing your research.
Jill
Denise says
Jill, the chalkpaint (brand name or HMCP) would not fill in any holes, scratches or indents on a wall any better than it would a piece of furniture. However, because it’s a FLAT chalky paint, it is possible your eye would not be “drawn” to these areas as it would if it was painted in a sheen or a gloss paint.
Debbie says
Thanks, this was so helpful!!! Bless you!
Janet Kerr Britt says
I just finished a shelf for new great granddaughter but when I put wax using Johnson wax it appears to be be soaked up
By the wood – am
I doing something wrong?
Denise says
It sounds like you’re doing it right Janet! When applying a wax top coat, it’s best to rub the wax into your piece as you would rub hand cream into your hands. To get a shine or sheen, buff it after 24 hours.
richelle says
Hello. I am so happy that I found your site. I really want to paint with chalk paint and am having trouble finding an acrylic paint without any finish. I can have either high gloss or satin. Those are my choices.
The only flat latex paint I can get here is wall paint.
Have you had any success adding the Calcium Carbonate to satin finish paint??
I had no trouble finding calcium carbonate at Kremers. It is a pigment and art supply shop. Also available online in the states I think. I got about 2 kilos for about 5 dollars. : )
Denise says
Yes Richelle, I have had success using Calcium Carbonate with a satin paint finish and also with flat latex wall paint. Both will work nicely however the flat looks a little more “chalky”.
Janelle says
I have been researching chalk paint for a few days, I have never painted anything before- I recently picked up an old trunk at a thrift store and I wanted to try to chalk paint it. After reading this, I decided to try to make the chalk paint with the plaster of paris recipe. I don’t know what I’m doing wrong- I bought an 8 oz sample of Behr paint, and I did 1/3 c plaster of paris paste and it did NOTHING to the paint, it didn’t thicken it at all. then I did another 1/3 c plaster of paris paste- still nothing…. then again… so I’ve put a total of 1 cup of the plaster of paris paste and I don’t know what I’m doing wrong lol the consistency of the paint hasn’t changed a bit 🙁
Denise says
Janelle, your original amount of 1/3cup of Plaster of Paris is correct. When you mix in the 1/3cup of P of P (using a small amount of water to smooth it out) into the 1cup (8oz) of Behr paint, you may NOT notice that the consistency of the paint changes… this is okay! Where the difference should be seen is on the painted piece of furniture. It will have a matte, chalky look and feel.
Kris says
A lot of the paint samples are made to just try out the color . They aren’t durable as they don’t have binders and that may be why it wouldn’t thicken . Not sure just a guess.
Stacey Smith says
Hello, Thank you for posting your Chalk paint recipes. I found a website dudadiesel.com and they sell 5lbs of food grade calcium carbonate powder for $16.00 includes Free shipping. I placed my order online Sunday morning and received my product on Thursday. Can’t wait to mix up a batch of paint.
Candice Pujol says
Calcium Carbonate is also called whiting. You can buy it at Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore. Just ask for whiting. It is an old product.
Fiona says
Really helpful, thank you…
renee says
is is also limestone powder go in gardening section or any Tracoir supply store
carol says
Great Information Everyone. Am I correct in thinking that I can paint an old framed picture with this material and my children can use the surface as a chalkboard?
Denise says
Yes Carol. I would recommend using the Calcium Carbonate (real chalk) recipe for a chalkboard.
Jo @ To a Pretty Life says
Thanks for these great reviews! I’m sure I will be referencing this post for years.
Denise says
My pleasure and feel free to visit often Jo! Heading over to check out your blog! 🙂
Ginny says
A lady was telling me at my local pool supply store that you can make chalk paint using dimacoius earth for pools but she didn’t know the ratio. Have you ever heard of this or know anyone who has tried it?
Denise says
I have not heard of this Ginny…sorry.
Fourple says
Hi I just found on Pinterest the following mixture:
1/4c Diatamaceous earth
2 Tablesp. water
mix with a whisk till smooth
Mix with 1/2 cup paint.
I haven’t tried myself but the poster said it worked well for her.
Frank says
Hi,
I like you information on the chalk paint. I have tried most of them also. Calcium Carbonate works great. I am in Phoenix AZ I buy powdered calcium carbonite for about $2.00 lb.or less. From Marjon Ceramics Supply Phoenix AZ. phone is 602-272-6585 the customer service on phone has been very good and are knowlegable. You might google them also.
You may try looking for a ceramic supply company in your area. Marjon Ceramics may direct you to a suppler also.
Thank You
Frank Olmstead
Barbara Colley says
To add color to the project do you use color paint or add colored dye? Daughters want different colors on dressers!! Thanks
Denise says
Hi there Barbara… just replied to you via FB too, and yes, a flat paint in whatever color you choose works with the above recipes.