From the page: A wall asking for a fresh start

Idea 6

Chalk paint on wooden furniture

Medium Medium — half a day between preparation, coats and drying

Chalk paint was popularized by restorers who needed to renew old furniture without sanding everything down. It works because the plaster (calcium sulfate) mixed into the paint creates a paste with high adhesion and a matte finish, gripping even varnished surfaces.

What you need

  • Plaster powder or fine baking soda
  • Acrylic latex paint in the desired color (leftovers from a can work)
  • Warm water
  • Mixing container and spoon
  • Wide brush with soft bristles
  • Fine sandpaper and damp cloth

How to make it

  1. 1

    Dissolve two tablespoons of plaster in a bit of warm water until it becomes a smooth cream, without lumps, because this texture is what guarantees the coverage power.

  2. 2

    Mix the cream into half a cup of acrylic paint, stirring well until homogeneous and slightly thicker than the original paint.

  3. 3

    Clean the furniture with a damp cloth and lightly sand only the glossy parts, so the first coat grips better.

  4. 4

    Apply the first coat with the brush in crosswise strokes, covering without rushing; this paint dries fast, so work in sections.

  5. 5

    Wait about an hour and apply the second coat, which is the one that reveals the characteristic velvety finish.

  6. 6

    Sand very lightly the edges and corners with the fine sandpaper, creating that soft wear that gives the piece charm.

Finishing touches

For extra durability, finish with a layer of colorless wax applied with a cloth, rubbing well. The same recipe renews wall hooks, frames and shelves, giving the room a like-new feel.

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