How to chalk paint furniture?

You just clean the piece and then you paint! No sanding or priming needed. If you need to protect the surface, you can use a water based poly on it or wax. You can also distress the furniture if you want by using a dark base color, and then a lighter top color. Here are some articles to check out:

https://www.thinkingcloset.com/2014/09/22/the-beginners-guide-to-annie-sloan-chalk-paint/

https://www.allthingsthrifty.com/2015/07/chalk-paint-no-mess-distressing-tutorial.html

http://salvagedinspirations.com/how-to-distress-furniture-with-vaseline/

http://littlevintagenest.com/top-10-chalk-painting-tips/

I do lots of furniture flipping and chalk paint is an easy way to paint a piece and give it new life. Make sure the item is clean and dust free, fill any holes with wood filler (sand afterwards), and simply paint. After 2-3 coats will be done and if you want it distressed, lightly sand the edges. At then end - you can apply and rub out wax or my choice - apply water based polycrylic (Minwax makes a great one in blue can). As for paint, if you want to go cheap - try Waverly brand sold at Walmart in the craft department - about $6 a bottle and lots of colors. For my favorite paint that you won't have to apply a finish to - Heirloom Traditions - here is a link: https://www.heirloomtraditionspaint.com/