Homemade chalk paint

Question

Hometalk 
 I am totally new to DIY. I tried making chalk paint at home from a recipe I had seen on Google. I mixed enamel paint and chalk (calcium carbonate), applied it to a piece of wood to test, but the result was awful. It didn't look like chalk paint at all. No soft coverage. What did I do wrong? Please advise. 
 Thanks.

Carole Crawford-Evon · Answer

I think your problem was using enamel paint instead of a low sheen paint.

Carol · Answer

I think matte finish latex paint would be your answer. I used dry grout, mixed with a little water (I think I used 1 1/2 tbsp of each) and then mixed it with a 1/2 qt of latex paint. Worked great. I used Minwax and got the same effect as the expensive paint and wax. Good luck! Let us know how it works out.

J · Answer

You need to use a latex paint in a satin finish. It covers anything.

Nancy · Answer

I use flat paint mixed with plaster of paris. Keep looking on Pinterest for the recipe. I had to play with the proportions to find what works for me. i use either paste wax, antique or dark wax, or a poly finish depending on what I am painting. Don't get discouraged!  I learned a lot using the trial and error method with heavy emphasis on the error before I felt any level of confidence.

Heidy · Answer

I make and use it all the time. I'm in love with the coverage and finish. Must use water based latex paint in flat, satin, or eggshell. I use plaster of Paris for my recipe. No waxing for me though! It's only temporary,  must be rewaxed over time.  I use Varathane water based sealer in a super matte finish. Beautiful! Good luck!

Homemade chalk paint

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Homemade chalk paint

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