What is the difference in chalk paint and regular paint?

Do you mean chalk paint versus regular paint?

Chalk paint is thicker, dries faster and you don't have to sand the piece first . You will have to seal it with a special wax afterwards or just polyurethane as the it like flat paint . Not a surface that is easily cleaned and will rub off or scar if not sealed.

According to a www.mademan.com, "The difference between chalk board paint and your typical household paint is basically one ingredient. Chalk board paint has a gritty consistency which is necessary in order for the chalk to adhere to it. This grit is made by combining latex paint with unsanded tile grout. “Unsanded” is the key word." Hope that helps!

Chalk paint is easily made with Flat Latex Interior Paint and Calcium Carbonate ---2 TBSP CCarb per cup of paint. Thin with a bit of water if/as needed. The consistency should be like yogurt. The Calcium Carbonate gives the paint a matte finish and the ability to adhere to surfaces without sanding the surface---just be sure to clean off any dirt or grease before painting. (Calcium Carbonate can be ordered inexpensively online.) Paint 2 coats usually---it dries fast but allow the piece to cure for a week or more before you use a protective coating of polyurethane or a good quality paste wax. I have painted loads of furniture, kitchen cabinets, etc using this chalk paint method, with excellent results. I have also used just about every brand of Chalk Paint sold at retail but see no difference and get just as good results with this recipe. Have also tried the unsanded grout and plaster method---no thanks. The Calcium Carb recipe is easier, requires less mixing and doesn't dry out---so it stores nicely for reuse.

The practical difference is that chalk paint takes very little prep - usually no sanding!

Chalk paint was created with a thicker texture and adheres to surfaces without the need for sanding or priming. It has a nice matte finish.