How to Spray Paint with Chalk Paint
Chalk paint has become an incredibly popular choice for DIY furniture makeovers and decor projects. This versatile paint can be used to easily transform old, dated pieces into stylish, modern works of art. While chalk paint is commonly applied by brush, many people don't realize that it can also be used with a paint sprayer to achieve beautiful results.
Spraying chalk paint allows for a smooth, consistent application and can be a real time saver on large projects. It also creates a soft, airbrushed finish that closely resembles the hand-painted charm of brushed-on chalk paint. When working on intricate or detailed pieces, spray painting helps ensure full, even coverage. Read on as we detail everything you need to know for gorgeous spray painted finishes with chalk paint.
Prepare the Chalk Paint
While the prep work is minimal, there are still a few key steps to take before spraying chalk paint for flawless results:
- Choose the right chalk paint brand and color - Select a high-quality brand that sprays smoothly. Test colors on scraps first to ensure the shade fits your vision.
- Thin down the chalk paint - For use in a paint sprayer, chalk paint needs to be thinned down with water, typically 15% to 30%. This helps create an easily sprayable consistency.
- Test the consistency on cardboard - Spray a test piece before applying to your project. Check for drips or uneven spraying.
- Set up drop cloths - Cover all surfaces, floors, walls and furniture in your spray area to protect from overspray.
Mixing the paint well and taking care to thin it properly is key to getting great spray results. We recommend starting with a 30% mix of water to paint. Depending on the brand, more or less thinning may be required.
Popular Brands of Spray Chalk Paint
Magnolia - Offers excellent coverage. Many colors to choose from.
Behr - Affordable option that sprays smoothly. More limited color selection.
Krylon & Rustoleum - Specifically made for spray projects. Very easy to apply.
Set Up Your Spray Equipment
Having the right tools for the job will make all the difference:
- Paint spray gun or sprayer - Invest in a spray gun made for chalk paint or use an electric paint sprayer with adjustable control.
- Nozzle and airflow - Select the correct nozzle size and adjust airflow as needed per project.
- Masks, drop cloths, etc. - Gather all safety gear along with items to protect your space.
- Practice first - Always test spray onto cardboard or scraps until you achieve the ideal spray pattern.
While you can use inexpensive pump sprayers found at any hardware store, you may end up with spotting, spitting and clogging. We highly recommend investing in quality spray equipment for the very best DIY spray painting with chalk paint experience.
Spray Gun vs Sprayer for Chalk Paint
Spray guns allow more control and work well for smaller projects. Electric sprayers quickly cover large areas but have a learning curve to master.
Prepare the Furniture Surface
Prepping your piece properly is one of the most vital steps for long-lasting, quality results:
- Sand and clean thoroughly - Remove grime, oils, wax and polish from the surface using degreasing cleaners or TSP.
- Fill imperfections - Use wood putty on nail holes, scratches, etc. Sand smooth when dry.
- Remove hardware - Take off hinges, knobs and handles prior to painting using flathead screwdrivers.
- Apply primer if needed - For bleeding woods, prime first with a bonding primer like Kilz.
Proper sanding opens up the grain so the chalk paint can adhere tightly. A good rule of thumb is to scuff sand until the surface feels like 150 grit sandpaper.
Which Woods Don't Require Chalk Paint Primer?
Most wood surfaces like pine, oak and maple don't need primer before applying chalk paint. Exceptions include bleeding woods like cherry, mahogany and cedar.
Spray On The Chalk Paint
Once your furniture is prepped and your spray station is set up, it's time to spray! When coating with chalk paint, the key is slow, steady motions:
- Apply thin coats - Heavier coverage causes dripping. Allow proper drying time between applications.
- Overlap strokes - Maintain about 50% overlap with each pass of the spray gun to ensure even layering.
- Hit all angles - Rotate furniture pieces to reach tough corners, crevices and undersides.
- Check for full coverage - Look over the entire surface before adding extra coats anywhere needed.
Patience is crucial when spray painting. Apply multiple thin coats , allowing ample drying time between each rather than one thick, wet layer. This helps the paint flow on smoothly without sagging or running.
How Many Coats of Chalk Paint When Spraying?
Typically furniture requires at least 2-3 thin coats of sprayed chalk paint for full, opaque coverage. Deep colors may require up to 5 coats.
Distress and Seal the Finish
Once fully dried, you can add charming distressing or finish with a topcoat sealer if desired:
- Lightly sand - Use fine grit sandpaper to rub edges and corners for a timeworn look.
- Rub or chip paint - Pull off areas of paint using wet rags or abrasive scrub pads.
- Apply protective topcoat - Use a finishing wax, sealer or water-based poly to protect the finish.
Distressing is optional but works beautifully with spray painted chalk paint projects. Not only does it create vintage appeal, but distressing allows that dimensional wood grain to peek through.
How to Get a Smooth Chalk Paint Finish When Spraying
Use high quality chalk paint meant for spraying, apply thin coats, and consider lightly sanding between layers and before topcoating for ultra smooth results.
Reassemble and Style
Once fully dry, the last steps are to reassemble your furniture piece and style as desired:
- Reattach hardware - Screw handles, knobs, hinges etc back into place with a power drill.
- Style with accessories - Show off your freshly spray painted furniture by decorating with colorful accents.
Step back and admire your handiwork! Nothing beats the satisfaction of breathing new life into tired old furniture using revolutionary spraying chalk paint techniques.
Troubleshooting Tips
While spray painting chalk paint is relatively foolproof, occasional hiccups can happen. Here are some quick fixes:
- Fix drips or uneven coverage - Lightly sand problem areas and spray recoat as needed.
- Correct blotchiness - Apply a stain blocking primer then re-spray coats.
- Repair damage from distressing - Spot prime raw wood exposure then respray paint.
- Address bleed-through - Use thicker primer made for bleeding woods.
Getting perfect results spraying chalk paint does involve a short learning curve. Don't get discouraged--a little sanding and respraying can work wonders!
How Does Spray Chalk Paint Compare in Durability?
Spray applied chalk paint is just as durable as brushed on. Add a topcoat for enhanced protection and longevity.
Special Techniques
Once comfortable spray painting with chalk paint, consider trying more advanced finishes:
- Two-tone look - Spray one color on drawer fronts, another on body.
- Ombre painting - Transition dark to light shades blending colors.
- Faux marbling - Float several colors on wet paint for marbleized veins.
- Metallic effects - Mix mica powder pigments into paint before spraying.
Sprayed chalk paint lends itself perfectly to all sorts of unique treatments. Get creative with colors and textures for truly one-of-a-kind furniture!
Special Considerations for Large-Scale Spraying
Use electric sprayers, pole extensions, scaffolding, respirators and work in sections for safest and easiest application on big pieces.
Maintaining Your Finished Piece
Completed chalk paint projects require a little periodic TLC:
- Dust frequently - Wipe with soft dry cloths to prevent buildup in crevices.
- Clean spills quickly - Blot with mild soap and water to prevent stains.
- Use coasters and placemats - Protect the surface from hot, wet, or abrasive items.
- Reapply protective topcoats - Refresh wax or poly every 1-2 years when noticeably worn.
With proper care and maintenance, your gorgeous hand-sprayed chalk paint finish will stay beautiful for years of stylish use.
As you can see, successfully spray painting with chalk paint just takes some simple prep work, the right tools, and a little practice. Soon you'll be tackling furniture transformations, unique decor accents, and other projects!
We hope these comprehensive tips give you total confidence in getting started. Spraying chalk paint unlocks so many possibilities for upgrading worn out finds into personalized showstoppers.
Gather inspiration from our furniture makeover before and afters, then put your own creative twist on pieces using versatile sprayed-on chalk paint. With a little imagination and our guidance, absolutely anything is possible. Happy painting!