I used Annie Sloan’s chalk paint for the first time last year when I painted a buffet for a friend. It always gets rave reviews, but a couple of factors made me hesitate: 1) the closest stockist around here is on the other side of Raleigh, 2) it’s pricier, 3) I’ve heard that with the waxing, it takes just as much time as traditional paint, and 4) the color selection is limited.
But let me tell you, after using it, I’m convinced: this stuff rocks. Notice anything different?
No more two-toned dresser!
Here’s my rundown of Annie Sloan chalk paint: the colors are limited, but they’re classic. The paint goes a long way – this $40 quart will be used for the dresser and bed. The wax is used slowly, so it’s not an investment that needs to happen with every new piece you paint. The paint adheres perfectly without primer. It doesn’t smell, so painting indoors is no problem (but the wax smells). It looks good distressed and solid. It dries quickly and levels itself well – I used a brush instead of a foam roller for the whole piece, and it was perfectly smooth, even without sanding. Waxing is a bit of a pain, but think of the time you save not priming or applying polyurethane (though poly does work on top of the paint if that’s your thing).
Okay, chunk of text/fanboy raving done.
With about two hours of work on Sunday, I knocked this out. Two coats of paint, a layer of wax. Boom. Classy new dresser. This color is Versailles, for the curious.
The wax is lovely and smooth with a nice satin finish.
Shortly after painting, I ditched the curtains. Not sure what I want in there quite yet, but I have a few fabrics in mind.I really need to do an inspiration board so you guys can see where my brain is going with this room, don’t I?
Possibly the most exciting development? No more fan!
Ryan’s first light impressions: “Wow. It makes the whole room look bigger.” More on the light (and the sweet deal we got it for) later.
Any products changing your life lately? I’ll definitely still do the traditional paint thing, but man, you gotta love how easy chalk paint is.
