Chalk paint wax
by
Connie
+9
I am new to this chalk paint stuff. What is the wax for? And do you have to use it? I am painting old decanters and mason jars.
12 answers
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no, you don't HAVE to use wax, wax gives it a very nice finish though....I have only used wax once, on stool legs...if you are sealing a tabletop or something that will get used a lot, then go with polycrylic & 3 coats, but there are waxes in different shades, if you DO wax, put a clear wax first, then follow with a shaded wax, but that is only to add dimension & antique it, many use dark wax on pieces that have a lot of detail,carving,etc...hope that helps.......you can find several tutorials on youtube to help you also
Nancy J
on Nov 17, 2015
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The chalk paint is very flat and I love to apply the wax then buff it to a nice sheen. I think it gives my piece a more professional finish. I love it. I usually use the clear. I have not tried the other colors.
Michelle James
on Nov 18, 2015
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After it applies the soft wax hardens and acts as a sealant to protect the paint finish. Only a thin layer is required. The wax is designed to work specifically with the chalk paint. However, for smaller glass and metal projects I sometimes seal the paint with mod podge. Good luck with your project!
Patricia
on Nov 18, 2015
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You should seal the jars with the wax it will protect your paint.
Janet Pizaro
on Nov 18, 2015
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Your chalk paint dealer will also have a lacquer top coat product, however you can use other water based brands if you wish. The wax is more for furniture and does require re-waxing (1x a year for furniture is what I've read). For something like canisters you may also want to read up on clear spray coats, or use a clear spray finish sold in arts and crafts stores.
Fab and Pretty
on Nov 18, 2015
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Also the wax is not water proof. What are your jars going to be used for? As mentioned above you can use their lacquer or a poly acrylic topcoat for protection or you can not wax too. All good but different looks.
JulieArt
on Nov 18, 2015
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I like the wax, now. I had a hard time with it on the first few things I used it on. Accidentally I discovered how it works best for me. I was out side working on a very warm day and the wax started melting, I found I was able to use a small amount and it went on perfectly. As soon as it cooled off it was in it's natural state again. I love the sheen it gives to things but I would not use it on a table top or any thing that needs more protection, the lacquer would be a better choice for that. I just finished a project and I took most of my wax out of the container and placed the container on the warmer on my stove top and had the same results, when finished I put the other wax back into the container. I also like to use a car buffer on large projects to heighten the sheen. Don't use the wax on anything that will be out side, if you want a top coat on it you must use lacquer. Using the wax after painting is better if you plan to do distressing or sanding, results will be the same either way but the mess will be much less.
Sara Housley Black
on Nov 18, 2015
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Go to the Purple Painted Lady blog and you'll learn everything and I mean everything you need to know about the paint and wax and whatever else you need to know.
Pat
on Nov 18, 2015
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Thank you everyone!!
Connie
on Nov 18, 2015
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Thanks everyone!
Connie
on Nov 18, 2015
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if you want them very shiny & glossy, triple thick glaze by krylon is awesome!
Nancy J
on Nov 19, 2015
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Waxing creates a beautiful finish but if you need to wash your projects in the future then a water-based top coat would be far more durable.
MaryStLouis
on Nov 19, 2015
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