Chalk paint has completely revolutionized the art of furniture painting and offers a unique, vintage look that people everywhere are absolutely in love with. But, one question remains prevalent, what is the best thing to seal chalk paint with? And, it’s a question that certainly deserves to be explored.
Whether you’re painting an old dresser or restoring a piece of antique furniture, choosing the right sealer for your chalk paint is critical. Not only will it enhance the durability of your project, but it will also help preserve the natural beauty of the paint, creating a long-lasting finish that is both beautiful and functional.
So, if you’re wondering what is the best thing to seal chalk paint with, we’ve got you covered! With so many different sealers available in the market, it can be a daunting task to choose the right one. From wax to polycrylic, polyurethane to lacquer, there are just so many options to consider. In this article, we will be exploring the different types of sealers available for chalk paint and help you decide which one is the best for your specific project.
What is Chalk Paint?
Chalk paint has taken the DIY and furniture painting world by storm. But what is it exactly? Chalk paint is a type of paint that has a matte finish and a chalk-like texture. It’s typically used to give furniture and home decor items a shabby-chic or distressed look and is favored for its ease of use and ability to adhere to almost any surface without sanding or priming.
It’s a water-based paint that’s made with calcium carbonate and has a thick consistency, which makes it perfect for creating a variety of textures and finishes. It also allows for easy blending of colors and provides great coverage, often needing just one or two coats to achieve the desired outcome. Chalk paint comes in a variety of colors, from neutral tones like white and grey to more vibrant hues like teal and magenta.
How to Prep Wood for Chalk Paint
Prepping the wood before using chalk paint is crucial to achieve the desired result. Here are some steps you can take to prep your wood for chalk paint:
- Clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. It is important to have a clean and smooth surface to work with.
- If the wood has a shiny surface, it is recommended to sand it lightly to remove the gloss and to help the paint adhere better.
- If the wood has any dents or scratches, fill them with a wood filler and let it dry before sanding it down until it is smooth.
Once you have prepped the wood, you are ready to start using chalk paint.
Best Sealer for Chalk Paint
After you have finished painting with chalk paint, you will need to seal it to protect it from wear and tear. There are a variety of sealers that can be used, including:
- Wax: Wax is a popular choice for sealing chalk paint. It is easy to apply and provides a smooth, matte finish. It is important to note that wax needs to be reapplied every so often to maintain its protective qualities.
- Polycrylic: Polycrylic is a water-based sealer that dries clear and provides a durable finish. It is also easy to apply with a brush or sprayer.
- Polyurethane: Polyurethane is another option for sealing chalk paint. It is oil-based and provides a durable finish that is resistant to scratches and water damage. It is important to note that it can yellow over time, which may affect the overall appearance of your project.
Chalk Paint Sealer Comparison Table
| Sealer Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Wax | Easy to apply, provides a smooth matte finish, and can be buffed for added shine. | Needs to be reapplied every so often, can collect dirt and debris over time, and may darken the paint color. |
| Polycrylic | Dries clear, can be easily applied with a brush or sprayer, and provides a durable finish. | May bubble or streak if applied incorrectly, may slightly darken the paint color, and may not be as protective as other sealers. |
| Polyurethane | Provides a tough, protective finish that is resistant to scratches and water damage. | Can yellow over time, may require multiple coats for adequate protection, and can be difficult to apply without leaving brush marks. |
When choosing a sealer, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each option and to choose one that best fits your specific project needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Chalk Paint
Chalk paint has gained a lot of popularity in recent years because of its versatility and ease of use. It is a great painting option for DIY enthusiasts, furniture upcyclers, and professional painters. Here are some of the pros and cons of using chalk paint:
- Pros:
- Chalk paint doesn’t require much preparation before painting. You can use it on any surface, including wood, metal, glass, and even fabric.
- It has a thick, creamy consistency that covers beautifully and dries quickly. You can easily achieve a smooth and distressed finish depending on your preference.
- Chalk paint has a matte finish and gives a vintage, shabby-chic look that is quite desirable. You can also customize your paint color by mixing different shades to get your desired hue.
- It is a nontoxic, environmentally friendly option that is safe to use indoors in an enclosed space.
- Cons:
- Chalk paint is relatively expensive compared to standard paint options.
- Unlike standard paint, chalk paint requires a sealant to protect it against chipping and wearing off over time.
- It has a limited color range, and you may not achieve bright, vibrant hues out of it as with other paint options.
- Chalk paint requires a bit of practice and patience to master and achieve a desirable finish without any streaking or uneven patchiness.
The Best Thing to Seal Chalk Paint With
Sealing chalk paint with the right product is essential to enhance its durability and longevity. Most chalk paint manufacturers recommend using wax or polyurethane as sealers. Here is a breakdown of each option:
Wax: Wax is a popular sealer option as it enhances the chalk paint’s matte finish while providing a protective barrier against scratches, stains, and moisture. You can apply wax using a brush or a lint-free cloth and buff it to reveal a subtle sheen. Note that wax requires reapplication every couple of years to maintain its protective qualities.
Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a clear, water-based sealer that provides a durable, long-lasting finish. It dries to a hard, glossy finish that enhances the paint’s color and protects it against chipping, flaking, and fading. You can apply polyurethane using a brush or a sprayer and let it dry for a full day before subjecting it to any heavy use or exposure to water.
| Wax | Polyurethane |
|---|---|
| Enhances the matte finish | Provides a durable, glossy finish |
| Protects against scratches, stains, and moisture | Protects against chipping, flaking, and fading |
| Requires reapplication every couple of years | Dries to a hard finish and doesn’t require frequent reapplication |
It’s worth noting that wax may not be the best sealing option for chalk paint used in high-traffic areas or pieces exposed to moisture, such as kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities. In such cases, polyurethane may be a better option due to its water-resistance and durability.
Benefits of Using Clear Wax to Seal Chalk Paint
Using clear wax as a sealant for chalk paint offers many benefits that cannot be achieved with other sealing methods. Here are some reasons why you should consider using clear wax to seal your chalk paint:
- Enhances color and adds depth – Clear wax enhances the color and depth of the chalk paint, making it look richer and more vibrant.
- Protects the surface – Applying a thin layer of clear wax protects the chalk paint surface from moisture, dust, and other elements that can cause damage to the paint.
- Creates a smooth finish – Clear wax creates a smooth finish that brings out the natural texture of the chalk paint.
Moreover, clear wax is easy to apply and can be buffed to a high shine, which gives the paint surface a beautiful, polished look. You can also use more than one layer of clear wax to achieve the desired level of protection and depth of the finish.
When shopping for clear wax, it is essential to choose a high-quality brand that is specifically formulated for use with chalk paint. Some wax brands contain chemicals that can affect the integrity of the paint, so it is best to do your research before buying.
| Benefits of Using Clear Wax on Chalk Paint | Drawbacks of Using Clear Wax on Chalk Paint |
|---|---|
| Enhances color and depth | Requires periodic reapplication |
| Protects the surface | May leave streaks if applied too thickly |
| Creates a smooth finish | May darken or yellow over time |
Overall, using clear wax to seal chalk paint is an excellent choice. However, it is essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using this method before making your final decision.
Top Brands for Chalk Paint Sealers
After hours of research and testing, we’ve narrowed down the top brands for chalk paint sealers. These brands not only provide excellent protection but also enhance the overall look of your painted furniture or walls. Here are our top picks:
- Wax: Annie Sloan Clear Soft Wax – This is the go-to option for many DIYers and furniture painters. It provides a beautiful, matte finish and is very easy to apply with a wax brush or cloth.
- Polyurethane: Varathane Ultimate Polyurethane – This polyurethane sealer is perfect for high traffic areas as it provides excellent durability and scratch resistance. It also comes in different finishes, including matte, satin, and gloss.
- Polycrylic: Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish – Polycrylic sealers are water-based and dry very quickly. They also provide good protection against water and stains. Minwax Polycrylic is a favorite among many DIYers because of its easy application and fast drying time.
- Shellac: Zinsser Bulls Eye Shellac – This traditional sealer is perfect for antique or vintage furniture. It provides a beautiful amber hue that enhances the natural wood grain and is very easy to apply.
- Lacquer: Deft Clear Wood Finish Lacquer – Lacquers provide a clear, hard finish that is very durable and water-resistant. Deft Clear Wood Finish Lacquer is a great option for those looking for a quick-drying sealer that can be sanded and recoated in just a few hours.
No matter which brand you choose, always make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and properly prepare your surface before sealing. It’s also important to note that some sealers may yellow over time or react differently to certain types of paint, so it’s always a good idea to test a small area before applying to the entire surface.
Tips for Applying Chalk Paint Sealer
Once you have finished painting your project with chalk paint, it is essential to apply a sealer to protect your piece and create a durable finish. However, applying a chalk paint sealer can be a bit tricky, and there are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure that you achieve the best results possible.
- Choose the Right Sealer: There are several types of sealers available for chalk paint, including wax, polyurethane, and varnish. Each has its own unique properties, so it is important to choose the right one for your project. Wax is the most popular sealer for chalk paint, but it may not be the best option for high-use items like tabletops or furniture pieces that will be frequently handled.
- Prep Your Surface: Before applying any sealer, make sure that your surface is clean and free of dust and debris. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down your project and let it dry completely before applying your sealer.
- Apply in Thin Layers: When applying your sealer, it is crucial to apply it in thin, even layers. Use a flat brush or lint-free cloth to apply your sealer, making sure to remove any excess and avoid leaving streaks or brush marks.
Here is a comparison table of different types of chalk paint sealers and their pros and cons:
| Sealer Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wax | Easy to use, creates a soft matte finish | May need to be reapplied regularly, not as durable as other sealers |
| Polyurethane | Creates a durable, long-lasting finish | May yellow over time, can be difficult to remove if mistakes are made during application |
| Varnish | Comes in both matte and glossy finishes, provides excellent protection | Can be challenging to apply evenly, may require multiple coats |
Remember, the key to applying a chalk paint sealer is to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and apply your sealer in thin, even layers. With the right technique and the right sealer, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting finish on all of your chalk paint projects.
Comparing Chalk Paint Sealer vs. Polycrylic Sealers
When it comes to sealing chalk paint, there are a variety of options available. Two popular choices are chalk paint sealers and polycrylic sealers. Let’s compare the two:
- Chalk Paint Sealer: A chalk paint sealer is specifically designed for use with chalk-based paint. It creates a smooth, matte finish and enhances the color and depth of the paint. It also provides a protective barrier against stains and moisture. Chalk paint sealers come in a variety of finishes, including clear, dark wax, and colored wax.
- Polycrylic Sealer: A polycrylic sealer is a water-based finish that can be used with a variety of paints, including chalk paint. It dries clear and creates a hard, durable finish. It’s resistant to scratches, stains, and water damage. Polycrylic sealers come in a variety of finishes, including matte, satin, and gloss.
So, which one should you choose? It depends on your personal preference and the project you’re working on.
Use a Chalk Paint Sealer if:
- You want a matte finish
- You want to enhance the color of your chalk-based paint
- You want a protective barrier against stains and moisture
- You want a variety of finish options (clear, dark wax, or colored wax)
Use a Polycrylic Sealer if:
- You want a hard, durable finish
- You want a variety of finish options (matte, satin, or gloss)
- You’re using a paint other than chalk-based
- You want to protect against scratches, stains, and water damage
In summary, both chalk paint sealers and polycrylic sealers are great options for sealing your chalk-based paint projects. It ultimately comes down to your personal preference and the requirements of your project. Experiment with both and see which one works best for you!
Conclusion:
Choosing the right sealer is crucial to ensure the longevity of your painted project. By understanding the differences between chalk paint sealers and polycrylic sealers, you can make an informed decision and select the best one for your project. Whether you choose a chalk paint sealer or a polycrylic sealer, your project will be well-protected and look beautiful for years to come!
FAQs: What is the Best Thing to Seal Chalk Paint With?
Q: What is chalk paint?
A: Chalk paint is a decorative paint that gives furniture a distressed, vintage look. It is water-based and dries to a smooth, matte finish.
Q: Why do I need to seal chalk paint?
A: Chalk paint needs to be sealed to protect the finish and increase its durability. Without a sealant, the paint may chip or wear off easily.
Q: What are the different types of sealants?
A: The most common sealants for chalk paint are wax and polyurethane. Wax offers a soft, matte finish while polyurethane provides a glossy, hard coat.
Q: How do I apply wax sealant?
A: Apply wax with a soft cloth or brush, working in small sections. Allow the wax to dry for at least an hour before buffing with a clean cloth.
Q: Can I use polyurethane instead of wax?
A: Yes, polyurethane is a popular alternative to wax as a sealant for chalk paint. It provides a more durable finish, but can be difficult to remove if you need to paint over it.
Q: Can I use a spray sealant?
A: Yes, spray sealants are available for chalk paint. They are easy to apply and dry quickly, but can be more expensive than wax or polyurethane.
Q: How long should I wait before applying a sealant?
A: Allow the chalk paint to dry completely for at least 24 hours before applying a sealant.
The Best Thing to Seal Chalk Paint With
Now that you know the answer to some common questions about sealing chalk paint, you can choose the best sealant for your project. Remember to let the paint dry fully before starting to seal it. Thanks for reading and come back soon for more DIY tips!