You Can Chalk Paint That!

Annie Sloan — artist, author and creator of chalk paint — spent an afternoon crafting with HGTV's Marianne Canada and shared the secrets and successes of crafting with chalk paint. Click through to see tips, tricks and unexpected techniques that look oh-so-lovely with a fresh coat of chalk paint.

“One thing it isn’t is chalkboard paint,” Annie says. “It has nothing to do with writing on boards. When you paint with chalk paint, you feel it, touch it, and it feels chalky. It’s also very absorbent like chalk would be."

Chalk paint’s hidden secret: You don’t need to strip, sand or prime the piece you want to paint. Chalk paint sticks to everything — and it can be used in lots of different ways — from sleek and modern to rustic and vintage.

Chalk paint is also great for in-a-hurry DIYs because it dries fast and a little goes a long way. Because chalk paint is very pigmented, mixing the paint is quick and simple. Once mixed, less is more, so be sure to keep the first coat thin and light.