Applying a top coat over chalk paint

Sgenna
by Sgenna
Help!!!! I applied general finishes top coat to chalk paint and it looks terrible! Blotchy, uneven and brush strokes galore! How can I apply it flawlessly? I used a foam brush. I did sand and applied a second coat. I am a beginner. Any tips for getting in between the slats of the chair? Can I remove the brush strokes with sanding again? Do I use a heavy coat or apply it thinly? Should I use a brush instead? Any advice is appreciated!
  7 answers
  • Mary Insana Mary Insana on May 08, 2016
    I don't care for using a foam brush with General Finishes top coats. I either use a good quality brush or a car waxing pad lightly dampened and wipe the top coat on.
    • Sgenna Sgenna on May 08, 2016
      Thank You Mary Insana! Is part of the problem that I went in different directions?
  • Debi53 Debi53 on May 08, 2016
    Someone might be able to offer better advice, but here is mine. I think you are going to have to sand the top coat until it is completely smooth and then repaint with chalk paint. If you want a rally smooth finish, try using this product: Scotch-Brite Light Cleansing Pad 7445. I use these all the time as my finish pad to 'polish' my paint before & after adding a clear coat, or as the final step if I don't add a clear coat. This pad just knocks down the little bumps from paint and gives it a silky smooth finish. It is more like buffing your piece smooth instead of sanding it smooth. Hope this helps.
  • Mary Insana Mary Insana on May 08, 2016
    Yes it is, 😕 can you sand with a medium sandpaper and try to smooth the brush strokes? Did you sand the paint before you applied the top coat?
  • K K on Nov 13, 2016
    The chalk paint looks like it was a bit too thick and needed a little water mixed in.
  • Trudy Trudy on Jan 09, 2017

    Yes to having to sand out the brush strokes. Foam brushes are cheap, but don't leave a nice finish. Invest in a good quality brush and wash well when finished and it will last for years.

  • Cindy Hagemann Cindy Hagemann on Jan 10, 2017

    I would sand it off and apply another coat of chalk paint and then apply wax for your finish. Good luc!