DIY Chalk Paint: How to Make Chalk Paint with Acrylic Paint (Expert Guide)

September 12, 2025 by Paula

Table of Contents

How to Make Chalk Paint with Acrylic Paint: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking to give your furniture a charming, vintage makeover? Chalk paint is the perfect medium, offering a matte finish and excellent adhesion that simplifies the painting process. While commercially available chalk paint can be expensive, you can easily achieve the same stunning results by learning how to make chalk paint with acrylic paint. This comprehensive guide provides you with everything you need to know, from selecting the right materials to mastering the application techniques. We’ll cover the nuances, common pitfalls, and expert tips to ensure your DIY chalk paint project is a resounding success. Get ready to unleash your creativity and transform ordinary pieces into extraordinary works of art.

What is Chalk Paint and Why Make It Yourself?

Chalk paint, known for its ultra-matte finish and ability to adhere to most surfaces without extensive prep work, has revolutionized the world of furniture refinishing. Unlike traditional paints, chalk paint requires minimal sanding or priming, making it a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and professional furniture flippers alike. The unique texture and finish allow for easy distressing, creating a vintage or shabby-chic aesthetic that’s highly sought after.

Making your own chalk paint with acrylic paint offers several advantages:

Cost-Effectiveness: Commercial chalk paint can be pricey. DIY chalk paint significantly reduces costs, especially for larger projects.
Customization: You have complete control over the color and consistency of your paint.
Accessibility: Acrylic paint is readily available at most craft stores, making it convenient to create your own chalk paint whenever inspiration strikes.
Reduced Waste: Use up leftover acrylic paint, contributing to a more sustainable crafting practice.

The Essential Ingredients for DIY Chalk Paint

To successfully make chalk paint with acrylic paint, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Acrylic Paint: Choose a high-quality acrylic paint in your desired color. Matte or satin finishes work best for achieving the characteristic chalky look.
Calcium Carbonate (Chalk Powder): This is the key ingredient that gives chalk paint its matte finish and adhesive properties. Purchase it from craft stores or online suppliers. Avoid using actual blackboard chalk, as it doesn’t provide the same results.
Water: Used to adjust the consistency of the paint. Distilled water is preferred to avoid mineral deposits.

Optional Additives

While the above ingredients are essential, you can enhance your DIY chalk paint with these optional additives:

Plaster of Paris: A faster-drying alternative to calcium carbonate, but it can make the paint more brittle. Use sparingly.
Unsanded Grout: Adds texture and a slightly grittier finish.
Retarder Medium: Extends the drying time of the paint, allowing for more blending and manipulation.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chalk Paint with Acrylic Paint

Follow these steps to create your own chalk paint:

Gather Your Materials: Ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools, including measuring cups, mixing bowls, stir sticks, and airtight containers for storage.
Measure the Ingredients: A common ratio is 2 parts acrylic paint to 1 part calcium carbonate to 1 part water. However, you can adjust the ratio based on your desired consistency. Our extensive testing shows slight variations yield different results.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the calcium carbonate with a small amount of water to form a smooth paste. This prevents clumping when you add the paint.
Add the Acrylic Paint: Gradually incorporate the acrylic paint into the calcium carbonate paste, stirring continuously until the mixture is uniform and free of lumps.
Adjust the Consistency: Add more water, a little at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency. The paint should be thick enough to provide good coverage but thin enough to spread easily.
Test the Paint: Before applying to your furniture, test the paint on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard to ensure the color and consistency are to your liking.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Consistency

The consistency of your DIY chalk paint is crucial for achieving the desired finish. Here are some tips to help you get it just right:

Too Thick: If the paint is too thick, it will be difficult to apply smoothly and may leave brushstrokes. Add a small amount of water to thin it out.
Too Thin: If the paint is too thin, it may not provide adequate coverage and may require multiple coats. Add a small amount of calcium carbonate to thicken it.
Lumpy: If the paint is lumpy, it indicates that the calcium carbonate was not properly mixed. Strain the paint through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lumps.

Preparing Your Furniture for Chalk Paint

While chalk paint is known for its excellent adhesion, proper preparation is still essential for achieving the best results. Here’s how to prepare your furniture:

Clean the Surface: Remove any dirt, dust, or grime with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Repair Any Damage: Fill any cracks or holes with wood filler and sand smooth.
Remove Loose Paint or Varnish: If the furniture has loose or peeling paint or varnish, remove it with a scraper or sandpaper.
Lightly Sand the Surface: Although chalk paint typically doesn’t require extensive sanding, lightly sanding the surface can improve adhesion, especially on glossy surfaces.

Applying Chalk Paint: Techniques and Tips

Now that your furniture is prepared and your chalk paint is ready, it’s time to start painting. Here are some techniques and tips for applying chalk paint:

Use a Quality Brush: Choose a high-quality brush with soft bristles for a smooth, even finish.
Apply Thin Coats: Apply thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Brushstrokes: For a smooth finish, brush in the direction of the wood grain. For a more textured finish, use a crisscross pattern.
Distressing: If you want to create a distressed look, sand the edges and corners of the furniture after the paint has dried.

Achieving Different Finishes

Chalk paint offers a wide range of finishing possibilities. Here are some popular techniques:

Smooth Finish: Apply thin, even coats of paint and sand lightly between coats for a smooth, flawless finish.
Textured Finish: Use a textured brush or sponge to apply the paint for a more rustic look.
Distressed Finish: Sand the edges and corners of the furniture to reveal the underlying wood or paint layers.
Two-Color Distressing: Apply two different colors of chalk paint and sand through the top layer to reveal the bottom layer.

Sealing and Protecting Your Chalk Paint Finish

Although chalk paint has a matte finish, it’s porous and needs to be sealed to protect it from moisture and wear. Here are some options for sealing your chalk paint finish:

Wax: Chalk paint wax is the traditional sealant for chalk paint. It provides a soft, matte finish and protects the paint from scratches and stains. Apply the wax with a brush or cloth and buff to a sheen.
Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a more durable sealant that provides a harder, more water-resistant finish. It’s ideal for furniture that will be exposed to heavy use or moisture. Choose a matte or satin polyurethane to maintain the chalky look.
Clear Coat: A clear coat of acrylic sealer can also be used.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Making Chalk Paint

Even with careful preparation, you may encounter some issues when making chalk paint. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Paint is too thick: Add more water, a little at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
Paint is too thin: Add more calcium carbonate, a little at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
Paint is lumpy: Strain the paint through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the lumps.
Paint is not adhering to the furniture: Ensure the furniture is properly cleaned and sanded before painting.
Paint is peeling: This could be due to poor adhesion or applying too much paint at once. Sand the peeling paint and reapply in thin coats.

Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint: An Alternative

While this article focuses on how to make chalk paint with acrylic paint, it’s worth mentioning a popular commercial alternative: Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint. This paint offers a similar matte finish and excellent adhesion to homemade chalk paint. It’s a convenient option for those who prefer not to mix their own paint. According to a 2024 industry report, Rust-Oleum Chalked is a leading brand in the chalk paint market.

Features of Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint

Ultra Matte Finish: Provides a smooth, chalky finish that’s ideal for creating a vintage or distressed look.
Excellent Adhesion: Adheres to most surfaces without priming or sanding.
Easy to Distress: Sands easily for creating a distressed finish.
Water-Based Formula: Easy to clean up with soap and water.
Low Odor: Minimal odor, making it suitable for indoor use.
Available in a Variety of Colors: Wide range of colors to choose from.
Fast Drying: Dries quickly, allowing for faster project completion.

Advantages of Using Chalk Paint (DIY or Commercial)

Whether you choose to make chalk paint with acrylic paint or purchase a commercial product, chalk paint offers numerous advantages:

Minimal Prep Work: Requires minimal sanding or priming, saving time and effort.
Excellent Adhesion: Adheres to most surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic.
Matte Finish: Provides a unique, chalky finish that’s ideal for creating a vintage or distressed look.
Easy to Distress: Sands easily for creating a distressed finish.
Versatile: Can be used on a wide range of furniture and décor items.

Review: Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint

Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint is a popular choice for furniture refinishing due to its ease of use and excellent results. In our experience, it provides a smooth, matte finish with excellent adhesion. It’s also easy to distress, making it ideal for creating a vintage or shabby-chic look.

Pros:

Easy to Use: Simple to apply and requires minimal prep work.
Excellent Adhesion: Adheres to most surfaces without priming or sanding.
Matte Finish: Provides a smooth, chalky finish.
Easy to Distress: Sands easily for creating a distressed finish.
Water-Based Formula: Easy to clean up with soap and water.

Cons:

Durability: May not be as durable as some other types of paint.
Cost: Can be more expensive than some other types of paint.
Limited Color Selection: The color selection may be limited compared to other types of paint.

Ideal User Profile:

Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint is ideal for DIY enthusiasts and furniture flippers who are looking for an easy-to-use paint that provides a matte finish and excellent adhesion. It’s also a good choice for those who want to create a vintage or distressed look.

Key Alternatives:

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is a well-known alternative, offering a wide range of colors and a similar matte finish. However, it’s typically more expensive than Rust-Oleum Chalked. Krylon Chalky Finish Paint is another alternative, offering a similar finish at a lower price point.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:

Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint is a solid choice for achieving a chalky finish on furniture and décor items. Its ease of use and excellent adhesion make it a favorite among DIYers. We recommend it for those looking for a convenient and reliable chalk paint option.

Q&A: Advanced Questions About Making and Using Chalk Paint

Q: Can I use any type of acrylic paint to make chalk paint?
A: While most acrylic paints will work, matte or satin finishes are preferred for achieving the characteristic chalky look. Glossy acrylic paints may result in a less matte finish.
Q: How does the ratio of calcium carbonate to acrylic paint affect the final result?
A: Increasing the amount of calcium carbonate will result in a more matte finish and increased adhesion, but it can also make the paint more brittle. Decreasing the amount of calcium carbonate will result in a less matte finish and reduced adhesion.
Q: Can I use chalk paint on fabric?
A: Yes, chalk paint can be used on fabric, but it will likely require multiple coats and may stiffen the fabric. Consider adding a fabric medium to the paint to improve its flexibility and adhesion.
Q: How do I prevent brushstrokes when applying chalk paint?
A: Use a high-quality brush with soft bristles, apply thin coats of paint, and sand lightly between coats. You can also add a retarder medium to the paint to extend the drying time and allow for more blending.
Q: Can I use chalk paint on outdoor furniture?
A: Yes, chalk paint can be used on outdoor furniture, but it will need to be sealed with a durable, weather-resistant sealant, such as exterior-grade polyurethane.
Q: How do I clean chalk paint brushes?
A: Clean chalk paint brushes with soap and water immediately after use. Ensure all paint is removed from the bristles and allow the brushes to dry completely before storing.
Q: What is the best way to distress chalk paint?
A: Sand the edges and corners of the furniture with sandpaper after the paint has dried. You can also use a damp cloth to wipe away paint from specific areas.
Q: How do I prevent chalk paint from chipping or flaking?
A: Ensure the furniture is properly cleaned and sanded before painting. Apply thin coats of paint and seal the finish with wax or polyurethane.
Q: Can I mix different colors of chalk paint?
A: Yes, you can mix different colors of chalk paint to create custom colors.
Q: How long does chalk paint take to dry?
A: Chalk paint typically dries within 30 minutes to 1 hour, but it’s best to allow it to dry completely before applying a second coat or sealing the finish.

Conclusion: Embrace the Chalk Paint Revolution

Learning how to make chalk paint with acrylic paint opens a world of creative possibilities for transforming your furniture and décor. By following this comprehensive guide, you can create your own custom chalk paint that meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, chalk paint offers a simple and rewarding way to add a touch of vintage charm to your home. Share your experiences with how to make chalk paint with acrylic paint in the comments below!