Do you have to sand a furniture piece before using chalk paint?
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I read recently that it isn't necessary to sand before chalk paint. I'm not sure about this. I plan to paint my daughter's French Provencial bedroom furniture...it was originally mine...so I want it turn out with a really nice finish. Also, is spray paint chalk paint easier? Will it turn out well on such a big job? If not, how do I avoid brush strokes or sponge marks from applying? A durable but smooth finish is critical. Thank you!!
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I would lightly sand the current finish to give the new paint a better chance to adhere. You can spray chalk paint in a spray gun, if you have one, but spray cans of chalk paint are pricey if you are doing many pieces. I would buy the best brush I could afford and take my time. Sand after each coat of paint, and use a durable top coat to protect the paint when you are done. There are many you tube videos that can walk you through the steps. It's a lot of work, but the end result should be wonderful! Good luck!
The beauty of chalk paint is that you don't have to sand before or between coats . In fact , if sand between coats , you can take off most of the paint you just put on. Clean really well and use good brush . Apply two coats and good wax finish but be aware that you will need to reapply the wax in a year or two .
Here's a good tutorial
http://www.thinkingcloset.com/2014/09/22/the-beginners-guide-to-annie-sloan-chalk-paint/
You don't have to sand or prime with chalkpiant, just a good cleaning first!
Stephanie, you do not need to sand but you do need to fill and sand any nicks or deep scratches as they will show thru the paint. To get a smooth finish you want to first use a good brush. Apply 2-3 thin coats of paint. Lightly dip the tip of your brush in water before dipping in paint. Spread evenly and let dry between each coat. For a durable finish polycritic is great. It is water based and will not yellow over time. Polyurethane (oil-based) will yellow. Again apply 2-3 thin coats, this can be sprayed. I use Annie Sloan paints... a little on the pricey side but it goes a long way and is worth the price when it comes to working with paint. I don't spray chalk paint. You can use a foam roller for large areas. But you want to work in small sections at a time. You must seal chalk paint. Wax works well on a piece that will not get hard use but otherwise I used polycritic. Dark wax will give your piece an aged look. Use 2-3 thin coats and wipe each coat immediately after application. Do your research on chalk paint application and your piece will turn out beautiful!