With so many different paint options out there it can be hard working out which one is ideal for your paint project. One paint that has been gaining in popularity is chalk paint - but, what is chalk paint? And what are the differences between chalk paint and chalkboard paint? Below we cover all things chalk paint: What chalk paint is, how to use chalk paint, how to paint with chalk paint, and how to apply chalkboard paint. We also explain the difference between chalkboard paint and chalk paint so you know which one to use for your project. 

Haymes Paint is proud to offer quality products with both interior and exterior applications. We’ve been an Australian family-run business since 1935 and specialise in interior & exterior paints, an artisan collection and paints for textured & timber finishes. Here is everything you need to know about chalk paint and chalkboard paint.

The Different Types of Chalk Paint

Chalk paint is a water-based decorative paint that creates a matt chalk-like appearance or finish. It is most commonly used on furniture to freshen it up, restore it or give it the popular shabby chic or vintage look. 

The difference between chalk paint and chalkboard paint is that chalk paint is typically used to create a particular finish or surface whereas, chalkboard paint is used to transform a surface into a chalkboard that you can draw on with chalk (e.g. creating a menu board, coating a table tennis table, making a To Do list board and building a board for family communication).

How To Use Chalk Paint

Chalk paint is relatively easy to use as it does not require any prep work and can be used on many different types of surfaces, even surfaces that have paint on them already. Because chalk paint is often used to achieve a vintage style, imperfections such as holes, nails, and chips can even add to the desired finish. Being water-based, chalk paint is also very easy to wash up with.

How To Paint With Chalk Paint:

1. Remove hardware such as hinges, handles and knobs and give the surface a light clean
2. Stir your chalk paint then apply straight onto the surface, painting in all directions
3. Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat
4. Once the second coat is fully dry you can apply a wax or different type of finish to seal it, create a patina or you can lightly sand edges & raised areas to give it more of a vintage, worn appearance.

How To Apply Chalkboard Paint:

1. Ensure the surface is free of all chalk dust, dirt and grease. Fill cracks, nail holes & imperfections and scrape off all loose & flaking paint.
2. Sand with fine paper for a smooth surface to minimise brush marks. Glossy surfaces will need to be sanded flat to provide good adhesion. On more porous substrates like concrete, hardwood or cement sheet, surfaces should be sealed and undercoated with a solvent-based system.
3. Brush, roll or spray your chalkboard paint onto the surface. Wait 30 minutes till dry to touch
4. After 2 hours apply a second coat and allow 24 hours to dry completely before using

Pick up Chalk and Chalkboard Paint From Your Local Haymes

Visit your nearest Haymes Paint shop or Independent Stockist to pick up chalk paint or chalkboard paint. Your local paint experts can give you tips & tricks on how to apply chalkboard paint, and how to paint with chalk paint and you can pick up everything else you need for your project while you’re there.