I don't understand the advantage to chalk paint- how is it better?

it is flat, although go it can have wax finish applied Over it. The appeal is you don't have to strip or prime whatever's on the piece already, just clean off any dirt/dust. It's not a super durable finish so I have not found it good for anything that will get much use.

You are bound to get loads of answers but briefly, chalk paint is popular because, among other reasons, no sanding or stripping is required. It does give a flat finish, which is almost always then sealed with a wax that's rubbed on. The wax can give interesting definition to any ornamentation on the surface.

I didn't "get it" for a long time myself, but once I learned about no surface prep (except to clean if dirty), I was in! There are probably folks who have painted walls and floors with it, but usually it's used on furniture and craft projects. I'm going to.mix colors to match tone of some MDF bookshelves that have an oak veneer, and repaint the large wood entertainment cabinet that holds flat screen TV and sits adjacent to bookcases.

Then using a darker brown thinned with water and a wood grain texturing tool, will create a wood like pattern on the side panels. Will probably finish with a clear matte wax.

But chalk paint will never replace the traditional paint finishes you mention, especially for walls. It's just another alternative especially for those who want "shabby chic" decor.

It's a painting medium mixture of plaster of paris, paint and water. It has a flat dull finish, protected by a wax sealer. It's a personal choice for furniture, etc. . I prefer natural wood or a good stain, now and then I do like painted pieces. I would never paint kitchen cabinets with chalk paint for cleaning reasons. And never never bathroom cabinets for obvious reasons.

Thanks Karen and GMA, it doesn't hold any particular interest to me and I have a sneaky feeling it might be more expensive as I know about Annie Sloan. I did that wood graining thing on a wooden slender cabinet in our guest room. As I recall the instructions came from a decorator on Trading Spaces. Remember that show? I don't fuss much over painting. Maybe wash or wipe down. This paint is oil, bought from a surplus store. I love this paint. But I have to use it outdoors.

Very pretty! Yes, I do remember Trading Spaces ... to me, it was the last enjoyable show on TLC before it went to outrageous reality garbage! The wood graining tool is traditionally used (or used to be, before it fell out of favor with other "faux" finishes) with ... oh, shoot, my mind went blank ... OH, with glazes! There are brands cheaper than Annie Sloan, BTW ... I've got several that I've used or have plans for.

Karen, I have to admit I failed graining. My husband had to do this with a rubber graining tool. The decorator was Laurie, I always thought she did the best work, and she gave a recipe for mixing up the glaze. Bet I still have it.