Difference Between Chalk Paint and Chalkboard Paint

Chalk paint and chalkboard paint may sound similar, but they are designed for completely different purposes. Understanding the difference is important because choosing the wrong product can leave you with a finish that doesn't achieve the result you had in mind. While one is commonly used to create decorative furniture finishes, the other is designed to transform surfaces into writable chalkboards.

As Australia's largest Australian Made and Owned paint brand and a fourth-generation family-owned business established in 1935, Haymes Paint has helped Australians choose the right paints for a wide range of projects, from furniture makeovers to feature walls and home renovations. Whether you're updating a tired piece of furniture or adding a practical feature to your home, understanding the purpose of each paint type is the first step towards a successful result.

Understanding Chalk Paint and Chalkboard Paint

Few paint products cause as much confusion as chalk paint and chalkboard paint. The names sound alike, both are popular among DIY enthusiasts, and both are often used in creative home projects. Yet they are designed to achieve different outcomes.

Chalk paint is primarily chosen for its appearance. It creates a decorative finish that can transform furniture and home décor. Chalkboard paint is chosen for its functionality. It turns a surface into a space that can be written on, erased and reused.

The easiest way to think about the difference is this:

• Chalk paint changes how a surface looks. 
• Chalkboard paint changes what a surface can do.

What is Chalk Paint?

Chalk paint is a water-based decorative paint that creates a matt, chalk-like finish. It is most commonly used on furniture to refresh older pieces, update their appearance or achieve a vintage-inspired look.

One of the reasons chalk paint has become so popular is its versatility. It is frequently used to give furniture a softer, more character-filled appearance, whether that's a distressed finish, a shabby chic style or a contemporary matt look.

Many people choose chalk paint because it offers an opportunity to reinvent furniture they already own. Instead of replacing a dated cabinet or side table, a fresh coat of paint can completely change its character.

Common uses for chalk paint include:

• Bedside tables
• Cabinets
• Dining chairs
• Sideboards
• Decorative home décor
• Small furniture restoration projects

Because decorative furniture projects often involve colour selection as much as paint choice, exploring our Colour Collections can be a source of inspiration before starting your project.

What is Chalkboard Paint?

Chalkboard paint serves a very different purpose. Rather than creating a decorative finish, it transforms a surface into a chalkboard that can be written on and wiped clean. This makes it a practical option for homes, offices, cafés and creative spaces where communication, organisation or creativity are important.

A chalkboard surface can help organise busy households, encourage creativity in children's spaces or create a practical planning area in a home office.

Popular applications include:

• Kitchen shopping lists
• Family message boards
• Weekly planners
• Children's drawing walls
• Home office planning spaces
• Café-style menu boards

The appeal of chalkboard paint is in its functionality. Instead of simply changing how a surface looks, it changes how that surface can be used every day.

Chalk Paint vs Chalkboard Paint

Although both products are used in creative projects, they are designed to achieve very different outcomes.

The most important difference is not how the paints are applied. It's what you expect the finished surface to do once the project is complete.

Can Chalk Paint and Chalkboard Paint Be Used Interchangeably?

In most situations, no. A common misconception is that chalk paint can be written on because of its name. While it creates a chalk-like appearance, it does not create a surface designed for chalk writing.

Likewise, chalkboard paint is not intended to create the decorative furniture finish commonly associated with chalk paint.

• If your goal is to restore furniture, add character to a piece of décor or create a vintage-inspired look, chalk paint is the more suitable option.
• If your goal is to create a writable surface for notes, reminders, menus or creative projects, chalkboard paint is designed specifically for that purpose.

Focusing on the outcome rather than the product name is the easiest way to avoid choosing the wrong paint.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Between Chalk Paint and Chalkboard Paint

Understanding the intended use of each paint will help you avoid some of the most common DIY mistakes.

• Choosing based on the name alone: The word "chalk" appears in both product names, but their functions are very different. Choosing a product based on its name rather than its purpose often leads to disappointment.
• Assuming chalk paint can be written on: This is one of the most common misconceptions. Chalk paint creates a decorative finish but is not designed to function as a reusable writing surface.
• Assuming chalkboard paint creates a vintage furniture finish: While chalkboard paint can be applied to a variety of surfaces, it is designed to create a writable finish rather than a decorative furniture appearance.
• Not thinking about everyday use: Before selecting a paint, consider how the finished surface will be used. A decorative side table and a family message board require completely different outcomes.

How to Use Chalk Paint

Many DIY enthusiasts choose chalk paint because of its straightforward application process.

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Remove any handles, knobs or hardware and clean the surface to remove dust, dirt and grease.

Step 2: Apply the First Coat

Stir the paint thoroughly before use and apply an even coat across the surface.

Step 3: Apply a Second Coat

Allow the first coat to dry before applying a second coat.

Step 4: Create Your Desired Finish

Once fully dry, you may choose to apply a protective finish or lightly sand selected areas if you're aiming for a more aged or distressed appearance.

Remember that the final look is largely determined by the style you want to achieve. Some people prefer a smooth, modern finish, while others embrace a more weathered and character-filled appearance.

How to Apply Chalkboard Paint

Proper preparation is important when creating a smooth, functional chalkboard surface.

Step 1: Clean and Repair the Surface

Remove dirt, grease, chalk dust and any loose or flaking paint. Fill cracks or imperfections before painting.

Step 2: Sand the Surface

Lightly sand glossy surfaces and smooth any repaired areas.

Step 3: Apply the First Coat

Brush, roll or spray the paint evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Apply the Second Coat

Allow the first coat to dry before applying a second coat.

Step 5: Allow the Surface to Cure

Wait until the paint has fully dried before using chalk on the surface.

Taking the time to prepare the surface correctly can help create a smoother writing experience and a more consistent finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you write on chalk paint? No. Chalk paint creates a decorative finish but is not designed to function as a writable chalkboard surface.

Can chalkboard paint be used on furniture? It can be used on suitable furniture surfaces if your goal is to create a writable area rather than a decorative furniture finish.

Does chalk paint need sealing? Some chalk paint projects use a protective finish to help preserve the final appearance. The requirements will vary depending on the project and desired outcome.

Can chalkboard paint be painted over? In many situations, surfaces coated with chalkboard paint can be repainted following appropriate preparation methods.

Which option is better for beginners? Both products are commonly used in DIY projects. The most important consideration is choosing the paint that matches the purpose of your project.

Is chalkboard paint only for walls? No. Chalkboard paint can be used on a range of suitable surfaces depending on the project and intended use.

Choose the Right Paint for your Project

Haymes Paint has been helping Australians achieve outstanding painting results for generations. Find your local Haymes Paint stockist to speak with your local experts

The best painting projects don't start with a colour or a finish. They start with a clear understanding of what you want the surface to become.