What is the purpose of wax application after chalk painting?
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Chalk painting looks so easy and fun! I am planning to give a fresh look to some older pieces of furniture by applying chalk paint. I’ve seen DYI videos that waxing adds to the distressed look. How does this differ from just sanding the piece to create the same look? If I don’t wax the piece do I need to use a top coat to protect the paint? Thank you!
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http://www.diybeautify.com/2017/01/top-coat-protection-options-for-chalky-painted-furniture.html
The reason for wax on top of Chalk Paint is to protect it, but you could use Mod Podge or other suitable finish...............
Hi Lori,
It is not advisable. Chalk Paint® decorative paint, even when sealed with a quality sealer such as Annie Sloan Soft Wax or Annie Sloan Lacquer, will not be 100% non-porous and this can present problems with cross contamination. The surface may look clean but it may not be deep down into the finish. You're best bet is to sand with a fine grain sandpaper like you said. :)
Wax acts as a protective coating. If the painted piece is not going to get a lot of use other than sitting there looking pretty, I have used wax as a sealant/protectant. Wax can also be used (dark or light wax) to "age & distress" the item. Treat it like stain when applying and leave worn areas darker---like natural wear. To get a professional look. it takes some elbow grease and yet a light hand when applying---it's easy to use too much wax. I find it easier to use Polycrylic over most all my chalk painted projects. After painting, I distress the edges/surface of the painted piece by using a damp cloth (if working inside my home) or a palm sander/sandpaper (when outside) depending on the amount of distressing I want. Sometimes I apply Poly and then a coat of wax to soften the finish. Some people choose not to apply anything over chalk paint but naked chalk is harder to keep clean---chalk paint dries to a matte finish and will show spots and dirt and is not as easy to keep dust-free.
I would always apply some kind of protective finish over chalk paint.
chall paint distressed easily. it Needs to be sealed unless you want your piece to continue to get roughed up
The wax gives the chalk paint a finished and smooth finish. If you do not seal it, the chalk paint will rub off if you brush up against it. It will not look as good either. Not sealed, any moisture from a dish, vase or other will make marks on the chalk paint. Sealing it with the wax will assure you of protecting the paint!