Base coat for chalk paint

Question

Hello-- I am refinishing this old end table with chalk paint and decided I better put a base coat on it. Any suggestions??

Dee · Answer

If you are talking about a primer, use either Zinser 123 or Kilz. But that said chalk paint can be also used as a primer.From the photo, I would sand down some of those heavy scratches before painting.

Heidy · Answer

Just prime with an extra coat of chalk paint. If you make your own, as I do, it's cost effective and will work just fine.  I never use wax to seal my chalk painted furniture as it is not a permanent finish. Needs to be re applied occasionally.  Instead I love Varathane Water Base Matte Finish Sealer. It does not yellow and will maintain the matte finish that chalk paint is loved for.

Debi53 · Answer

I agree with Dee. Sanding down the scratches will give a better finish. You don't have to use a primer with chalk paint, but if you are going lighter, a primer can help you use less chalk paint.

Shelby @ The Weathered Barn Studio · Answer

As Debi53 stated...its not necessary to use a base coat with chalk paint...you can use TWO coats of your chosen chalk paint color, using the first one as a base coat. :) I use chalk paint a lot...its something people either really like using...or find a little ' challenging'...lol.

Sandra Hellewell · Answer

The only kind of paint I use now for furniture or anything for that matter is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint! It's so easy to use! The only base coat you need is a coat of chalk paint. I find the second coat goes on quite smoothly if you first dip your paint brush in a bit of water and then dip in the paint and remove the excess from the brush on the side of the container before starting the second coat.. (I always put some paint into a clean plastic container so I'm not dipping the wet brush into the can of paint) There's no need to sand or prime with chalk paint and that's why I love it! If you are nervous about it, there are lots of tutorials on YouTube to give you further direction. Good Luck with your project!

Tina Bloomquist Gauthier · Answer

I'm just starting out with DIY chalk paint so I'm no expert, but next time I will make up a batch of white chalk paint, maybe tint it with my color of choice and use that as a base coat. I think I'm hoping to get better coverage that way. Goodness knows I have tons of white paint in my basement.

Terry · Answer

Why do you need a base coat? I paint chalk paint directly on everything but laminate.

Chas' Crazy Creations · Answer

Here are some ideas that might help https://chascrazycreations.com/diys/re-purpose-up-cycle/furniture/

Base coat for chalk paint

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Base coat for chalk paint

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