Key Highlights
- Understand why chalk paint isn’t ideal for most furniture projects, especially larger ones.
- Discover durability issues that challenge the promised “test of time” finish.
- Learn why latex paint and other brands outperform chalk paint for high-traffic furniture pieces like kitchen cabinets.
- Explore the reality of prep work, ensuring smooth finishes on wood furniture every time.
- Find alternatives with affordable costs, more color options, and better environmental safety.
- See how to achieve better coverage with less effort and exceptional results for furniture painting.
When you want to paint furniture, a lot of people use chalk paint. They like it because it gives furniture a rustic charm and an aged look. There are companies that say chalk paint is easy to use and you don’t have to do much prep work.
You can also get a beautiful finish with it. But after using my own chalk paint on some furniture projects, I decided to go with something else.
Chalk paint does not hold up well over time, it costs more, and sometimes the final results are not as good as you want. That is why I do not use chalk paint now, and I have other ways to paint furniture that give better results.
Reasons I Skip Chalk Paint on Furniture (and What I Use Instead)
Getting ready to use chalk paint can take a lot of time and effort, especially if you want a smooth finish. Because of this, I like to use high-quality latex paint, or I use acrylic paints like Benjamin Moore Advance.
These paints give better coverage and are more durable, so your furniture projects last longer and look good for years.
Chalk paint does give that nice matte finish, but you need to put in a lot of work, and there can be deep scratches. I find that using latex paint, or paint from Benjamin Moore, gives a more beautiful and stronger finish without all the trouble.
1. Chalk Paint Can Be Costly for Larger Projects
Using chalk paint on furniture projects can look nice at first, but the cost can go up fast, especially with bigger things like kitchen cabinets or tables. One quart of chalk paint is more money than many good brands of latex or acrylic paint. For large furniture projects, you will need more than one quart, so the bill can get high quick.
If you try to make your own chalk paint at home, supplies like calcium carbonate are not as cheap as you might hope. Also, homemade chalk paint does not always give you even coverage. You might have to use more time and do more coats, which is not good.
A good paint brand such as Benjamin Moore Advance or Sherwin Williams can save you money in the end. These paints go on with less effort and give better coverage with fewer coats. For me, this is a better way to go when I work on furniture projects. You get good results, spend less, and do not waste time.
2. The Finish Isn’t as Durable as Promised
One of the biggest things people say about chalk paint is that it gives a strong and durable finish. But in real life, this is often not true. Even well-known brands like Annie Sloan chalk paint can get scratched or chipped pretty fast, especially when you use it on furniture pieces that see a lot of action. Things like kitchen cabinets, dining tables, and coffee tables need a type of paint that will handle everyday use.
Durability problems show up more if you add several coats of paint, since these coats of chalk paint often do not stick well together. You might soon notice chipping and flaking, which takes away from the test of time quality people want.
If you decide to use latex paints – like Benjamin Moore Advance – you will get a much more durable finish. These paints have a strong top coat and help each layer stick together better, so the final results keep looking good on items people use every day. This type of paint will give your furniture and kitchen cabinets the strength needed for real life. You will not need too many coats of paint or just good luck to keep your pieces free from scratches.
3. “No Prep Needed” Doesn’t Work in Reality
The promise of “no prep needed” with chalk painting can sound really good, but it often does not meet what it says.
Most wood furniture comes with deep scratches, rough wood grain, or old finishes that peel. Chalk paint cannot cover these well. If you skip the prep work, the paint may not look even, and the end result can seem messy and not neat.
Chalk paint is not good at hiding marks or covering up any blemish, especially on wood furniture that is older. Every time, sanding and wood filler are key parts of prep work before you use chalk paint. This step makes the surface smooth. If you miss this step, you will see scratch marks and other spots even after painting.
On the other hand, paints like Sherwin Williams paint or other acrylic and latex paint work better if you do the right prep work first. If you take the time to sand and prime your wood furniture before painting, those options settle on the furniture much better.
The finish will be smooth and look clean every time. Prep work makes every brush stroke look good, and the furniture ends up looking polished and professional.
4. Limited Color and Sheen Options with Chalk Paint
One big downside of chalk paint is that the color choices are few. It also always has a matte finish. Annie Sloan chalk paint and similar brands do not have many types of shine that some people might want. So, you end up with a chalky, distressed look on all your furniture pieces. This can be good if you want a vintage style, but it can be too limited for new home decor or bright, fun designs.
If you want custom colors, it is hard when you use chalk paint. It is tough to get deep or rich shades. But with latex paints or acrylic paints, the color options seem endless. You can find light, dark, or bright hues. You are not stuck with one look.
Latex paints come with choices like satin, semi-gloss, or glossy finishes. These work well for many furniture pieces and different styles. It does not matter if you want a rustic feel or something very modern, these paint types give you more ways to have what you like and be creative. This is one reason I pick brands such as Sherwin Williams. They have steady colors and good quality every time I use them on home decor.
5. Waxing Adds Extra Work and Maintenance
Getting the final look with chalk paint often means you have to put on a wax finish. This step takes extra time and work. You need to rub clear wax or dark wax over the painted surface, and then you have to buff it to get the shine you want.
When you wax chalk-painted furniture, it can look a little better, but the upkeep can be a hassle. You usually have to add more wax every few months to keep it looking nice, and this extra chore eats up your time. If you don’t use the dark wax the right way, you may see uneven streaks that can mess up your project.
If you want smoother results and do not want to spend extra time on upkeep, you can go for latex paints like Benjamin Moore Advance. This brand has a strong top coat that dries fast and you do not need to wax. One clear coat gives good, long-lasting protection. Your furniture gets a professional finish that is easy to look after, so you do not have to work hard to keep it looking good.
6. Chalk Paint Can Scratch and Chip Easily
Even though chalk paint looks nice, it does not work well on furniture that gets a lot of use. For example, dining room tables or coffee tables can get scratched or chipped easily when you use chalk paint on them. Even a small bump can make a clear mark on the finish.
Chalk paint does not stick to the surface very well. That is why it can start flaking, and you may see deep scratches. This problem can happen even if you use several coats of paint. With daily use, damage shows up fast. Because of this, chalk paint is not good for the furniture pieces you use every day.
Latex paint, on the other hand, is much better than chalk paint. It sticks more strongly to the surface and can stand up to more wear and tear. If you use a strong top coat with latex paint, your furniture gets a firm finish that can handle chips and scratches better. When you paint furniture pieces with latex paint, they stay looking new much longer, and you do not have to do as many repairs or touch-ups.
7. Difficulties Achieving a Smooth, Modern Look
Creating a smooth and up-to-date look with chalk paint can be hard. Chalk paint often leaves brush strokes, even when you try your best. This makes it tough to get that smooth finish you want. The matte look also does not give the shiny or clean feel that modern furniture usually has.
Getting better coverage with chalk paint is tough too. Furniture painted with this paint can look streaky, so you may need to use it many times to cover everything right. If you want to decorate simple and new spaces, chalk paint does not meet those needs.
Using latex paint is the answer to these problems. Brands like Sherwin Williams have paint that goes on smoothly and gives better coverage. When you use quality brushes and rollers with latex paint, each stroke helps make your furniture look flawless and new. You get a strong, stylish finish that is perfect for your modern furniture when using latex paint. The look and the toughness work together for the best result.
8. Chalk Paint Isn’t Ideal for High-Traffic Pieces
Not every piece of furniture works well with chalk paint. Pieces that get used a lot, like kitchen cabinets or coffee tables, need a strong paint. Chalk paint is not the best for this because it can wear down fast if people use the furniture a lot. You may see scratches or faded spots after some time.
Chalk painting is not a good idea for furniture pieces that must be tough. It is better to pick a finish that can handle things like spills, lots of use, or cleaning with strong products. These items need a paint that stays good even when life gets messy.
For high-use furniture, latex paints such as Benjamin Moore Advance work much better. The coating from latex is tough and will hold up to more use while still looking nice. Furniture painted with a latex like Benjamin Moore Advance will keep its good look for a long time. You will not have to fix it often, so this choice is best for busy areas or items that you use all the time.
9. My Preferred Alternative Delivers Better Results
Latex paint is now my top choice when I work on furniture projects. I really like how well it works. Latex paint from brands like Benjamin Moore Advance and Sherwin Williams gives you better results. The paint lasts a long time and has a smooth finish and nice style. It sticks well to most surfaces, so the furniture looks good for years. I have found that the beauty of latex paint lasts much longer than chalk paint.
When you use latex paint, it is easier to get a smooth and neat finish with less effort. Satin and semi-gloss latex paints bring a modern look to your projects. They come with a top coat that helps keep away scratches and chips.
You can use latex paint on many things, like wooden furniture and kitchen cabinets. You do not need to worry much about upkeep because the coverage is great.
Latex paint also gives you many colors to pick from, while chalk paint has only a few. This means you can use latex paint for all sorts of furniture makeovers, whether you want a trendy or classic look. It works well for any style, so this paint is now the one I always go for.
10. Better Choices for Eco-Friendliness and Safety
Chalk paint is not always the best choice if you want an eco-friendly option, even if you make homemade chalk paint with calcium carbonate. It may have low VOCs, but there are still some safety worries with things like waxing and sanding. This means that chalk paint does not fully live up to its green image.
Latex paint is a better choice if you care about the health of the planet when it comes to furniture painting. Big brands like Benjamin Moore Advance make latex paints with fewer VOCs, so they are safer for you and the environment. You don’t have to use sealants like dark wax with latex paint. You still get a finish that lasts, but with less chemicals.
If you want things to be safe and eco-friendly, acrylic paint is another good pick. It is not toxic, so it is safer for home decor, especially if children use the room. If you swap chalk paint for latex paint or acrylic paint for your piece of furniture, you help look after both your furniture and the world around you.
11. More Affordable and Accessible Supplies
Chalk paint often costs more than regular paint. It also needs a special wax finish that adds to the price. The things you need for chalk paint are not easy to find. Some brands, like Annie Sloan chalk paint, are only at specialty stores.
Latex paint and acrylic paint are easier to get. They also cost less. You can find them, along with things like brushes and primers, at almost every hardware store. This makes shopping for furniture painting simple. Good paint brands also last a long way, as you usually do not have to use much to get the look you want. This means you often need fewer coats and spend less money.
You get better coverage from latex paint at a lower cost. It is strong and holds up well, so it works well for more than one furniture project without spending a lot. The mix of low cost and better results is why I use latex options for all my furniture projects and makeover tasks.
Comparing Chalk Paint Versus My Go-To Alternative
Even though chalk paint is said to be easy and look nice, I find that latex or acrylic paint usually work better for me. When you look at chalk paint vs latex paint, you can see big differences in things like prep work, how you put it on, and how long it lasts.
I like using latex or acrylic paint for furniture makeovers, especially on pieces that get used a lot. These paints last longer and save me money over time. They also give a smoother finish with less effort, and there are many more colors and shine levels to pick from. Now, let’s look at chalk paint versus latex paint, and see how both paints do in terms of lasting strength, cost, and how easy each one is to use.
Application Process Differences
The differences in application between chalk paint and latex paint are apparent:
|
Application Aspect |
Chalk Paint |
Latex Paint |
|---|---|---|
|
Prep Work |
Frequently advertised as “no prep needed”; results often show uneven finishes when skipping sanding or priming. |
Requires sanding and priming, but ensures smoother, professional results post-application. |
|
First Coat |
Uneven coverage; brush strokes often visible. |
Consistent coverage with better hiding of imperfections. |
|
Second Coat |
More likely needed due to patchy finish. |
Often sufficient, especially with quality paint brands. |
|
Drying Time |
Dries faster but often remains prone to scratches afterward. |
Moderate drying time, but delivers more durable results. |
These differences highlight why latex paint provides better coverage and strong adhesion combined with proper preparation.
Durability and Longevity Compared
Chalk paint often does not last as promised. When you use it on furniture, it starts to chip and scratch in just a few weeks. This is especially true in places that get a lot of use, like kitchen cabinets. It just does not hold up to daily wear and tear.
Latex paint is a better choice if you want something that lasts. When you put a good top coat on it, it will keep its look for a long time. It resists scratches and holds up well to water, even when you use it in places with a lot of traffic. Some brands, like Benjamin Moore Advance, have paint that is both scratch-proof and water-resistant. This helps them last longer and look nice for years.
It is a good idea to pass on chalk paint and try coated latex paint instead. You will see that this kind of paint keeps its polished look and does not need constant fixing. If you use strong paints like latex for your kitchen cabinets or other furniture, you will make those items last longer and look better, so you get more value over time.
Cost and Value Over Time
The cost difference between chalk paint and latex paint shows up when you do furniture projects. Chalk paint costs more per quart, and you also must buy waxing supplies and touch up your work often. A little bit of chalk paint does not go a long way because it does not cover well.
Latex paint comes in bigger cans, gives you better coverage, and saves you money. It takes less coats to look good, so you don’t have to spend much. You do not need expensive fillers or sealers. When I use my favorite paint brands, I get strong results for about half the price.
When you think about the full life of your furniture, latex paint is the better choice. It holds up well after many years of use, so your piece stays nice and useful. If you look at the money you spend over the years, chalk paint needs more care and wears down faster. That makes it cost more in the end.
Conclusion
To sum up, chalk paint might look like a good choice for your furniture projects at first. But there are some problems that can make people feel let down. Chalk paint often does not hold up well over time. It can be hard to get a smooth, modern look with it, too. That is why some think it is not the best idea to use for changing up your furniture.
If you check out other products, you might find options that cost less, are better for the planet, and are easier to use. These can help you get great results that last through the test of time. If you want your furniture projects to turn out well and last, you might want to see what other choices are out there. You can also ask for a free consultation to find what works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chalk paint really better for furniture makeovers?
While chalk paint is good when you want to give furniture an aged look, it is not the best choice if you want something that will last or stand up to a lot of use. There are other paints, such as latex, that be smoother and tougher on surfaces. These types can be used for most furniture makeovers, and they work well for both new and old styles.
What do you use instead of chalk paint on furniture?
I like using latex paint for furniture projects. Some brands I like are Benjamin Moore Advance and Sherwin Williams. Acrylic paint is also good for this. You get strong color, it sticks well, and you do not have to spend money on wax or other expensive things. Using latex paint like Benjamin Moore or others gives you a solid finish and is easy to work with.
Do you have to sand furniture before painting if you skip chalk paint?
Yes, prep work is important when you use latex paint, especially on old furniture. You need to sand or fill deep scratches first. This step makes the surface smooth. A smooth area helps the latex paint stick better. When you use a good primer and add a coat of paint, it will cover well and hide any flaws.
How do you get a professional-looking finish without chalk paint?
To get a polished look, use a quality paint brand with satin options like latex paint. For best results, make sure to do the right prep work before you start painting. Using a top coat will help you finish the job with less effort. When you have the right tools and take your time, it is easy to get a sleek finish with less work.