How to Distress Furniture with Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan

If you're looking to give your furniture a vintage, shabby-chic look, distressing with Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan is the perfect technique to achieve that desired aesthetic. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to distressing your furniture with Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan.

1. Choose Your Paint

Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan is the best paint to use for this technique, as it has a matte finish and dries quickly. Choose a color that contrasts with the base color of your furniture piece. For example, if your furniture is white, consider using a darker color like Paris Grey or Amsterdam Green.

2. Prepare Your Surface

Before painting, make sure your surface is clean, dry, and free of any debris. If your piece is made of wood, sand it down lightly to create a smooth surface. If it's made of metal, use Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan in Satin to achieve a durable, long-lasting finish. Keep in mind that the wax recommended for distressing is for indoor use only, and this technique is not recommended for exterior surfaces.

3. Apply Your Base Coat

Using a brush or roller, apply your base coat of Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan. You may need to apply two coats depending on the surface and color you've chosen. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving onto the next step.

4. Apply Your Top Coat

Once your base coat is dry, apply your top coat of Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan in a contrasting color. Use a brush or roller and apply the paint in thin layers, allowing it to dry completely between each layer. You may also choose to use a spray bottle to mist the paint slightly before applying the wax in the next step.

5. Apply Your Wax

Using a wax brush or lint-free cloth, apply a thin layer of Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan Clear Soft Wax to the areas you want to distress. Focus on the corners, edges, and areas that would naturally experience wear and tear over time. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess wax.

6. Distress Your Furniture

Once the wax has dried, use a fine-grit sandpaper to distress your furniture. Focus on the areas where you applied the wax, and lightly sand the paint away to reveal the base color underneath. For a more distressed look, sand more heavily in certain areas.

7. Apply a Final Coat of Wax

To protect your newly distressed furniture, apply a final coat of Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan Clear Soft Wax. Use a wax brush or lint-free cloth to apply a thin layer of wax, and buff it out with a clean cloth.

By following these steps, you can achieve a beautiful distressed look on your furniture with Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan. Try experimenting with different colors and techniques to create a unique and personalized look for your home.