Tips for Using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and Clear and Dark Wax on Furniture
Get comfy, friends! This is a long post but one that I hope you’ll find informative and inspiring. (If you get confused while reading this- don’t worry, there’s more helpful info at the very end of this post!)
It’s no secret that I’ve used Annie Sloan Chalk Paint on a few of my recent projects: Provence on this table and this bookcase, and Paris Grey on this dresser. I’ve also shared a few reasons why I like the paint, but I’ve never done a full review. The folks at Annie Sloan were kind enough to send me some products to try and give an honest review.
*This post contains some affiliate links so you can easily find the products I use and recommend. Discover all my favorite brands and tools for doing DIY furniture makeovers Here.
These are the products I worked with for this vintage vanity makeover:
- Quick and Easy Paint Transformations by Annie Sloan, for inspiration and tips on technique (I highly recommend it)
- One quart of Old White
- One quart of Graphite
- Clear Soft Wax
- Dark Soft Wax (I had never tried it and was feeling brave!)
Then I just had to figure out what I was going to paint. I had several pieces waiting in my garage that would’ve been fine to paint (mostly side tables) but I wanted to do something a little different… Then I remembered I had this vanity that my mom picked up at a yard sale and surprised me with.
It was a beautiful, sturdy piece but the top was showing lots of wear and needed quite a bit of sanding. Normally with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint you don’t have to sand, but there were scratches and little indentations so I wanted to be safe.
So I took the drawers out and the mirror off, and sanded the table top.
Then I painted the base in Old White which is a good off-white color, not too bright. These are the paint brushes I prefer. You don’t need to prime with Chalk Paint® decorative paint by Annie Sloan, but with the light colors you will need more than one coat. I did have to touch up a few areas with a second coat after sanding away some brush strokes.
Then I painted the table top in Graphite. Honestly when I ordered this color, I was thinking it would be black. When I opened the can it looked more like medium-dark gray and I panicked!
I only needed one coat on top and then when it dried I was happy to see that it was a pale shade of black (if that makes sense) – like a chalkboard.
After the base, drawers, and mirror were painted, I got to the fun part – stripes!
I had heard good things about FrogTape so I decided to give it a try. I measured my stripes at 3″ each and then taped and painted.
Tip: Always pull the tape off while the paint is still wet.
Those are some pretty straight lines! (Since the paint is fairly thick I shouldn’t have worried about it running under the tape anyway though!) After painting stripes on three sides, I reattached the mirror.
Then I noticed something… the mirror had paint on it! Confession: I am not a “neat” painter – I make messes. (You can also see in some of these pics that my garage floor has paint all over it from my projects.)
I did not tape the mirror like I should have, oops. No worries! I got a couple of Q-tips damp with water and wiped away the paint from the mirror like it was never there. Just like magic, as my boys would say. 😉
Next it was time for the soft wax. I’ve used clear a few times and feel pretty comfortable with it, but I had never tried dark before. I was honestly really nervous to try it!
I spoke with the helpful Annie Sloan reps when I was at Haven and they warned me that I should always put a clear coat of wax on before using the dark or I would end up having a really dark piece… since the dark wax is kind of a stain. As long as you use the clear wax first, it’s easier to control the dark wax and wipe away some of the excess by applying more clear wax after. Maybe I should start at the beginning…
When you’re working with wax, it’s best to apply in thin even layers. The best thing to do is use a plastic spoon to get a glob of the wax and put it on a paper plate, then put the lid back on. This is so the wax doesn’t get contaminated with particles from the air, your brush, or the furniture you’re working on.
Get some wax on the end of your bristles and then blot onto the plate to remove any clumps. Work in small sections, starting at the back until you get a good groove. Then after each section, use a clean, lint-free cotton rag (an old t-shirt or bed sheet will work) to wipe away excess wax.
After applying the clear wax all over the piece, it was time for the dark wax. Typically you’re supposed to apply the dark wax pretty quickly after the clear – but for me, as soon as I finished the clear wax my boys woke up from their naps. (Happens. Every. Time.) So I had to wait about 6 hours later to apply the dark wax, and I’m not sure if the outcome would’ve been any different if I had done it earlier.
This time I put globs of both clear and dark wax on my plate. (I also used a different brush just so I’ll have one for each type of wax, and a new rag.) Same as the clear- I got some dark wax on my brush and blotted it onto the plate to remove the excess. Then I started lightly applying near the back of the piece and made my way forward.
When it went on a little too dark or thick, I immediately used the rag to scoop a small amount of clear wax and then rubbed it over the area I wanted lightened. Although it wouldn’t erase any big mistakes, it definitely diminished the areas that I applied it to.
You can see that the dark wax tends to cling to brushstrokes and gives an overall more antique look. I was really nervous at first but I really like how it turned out. The dark wax makes the Old White more of a light taupe, which makes the vanity look less like referee stripes (haha).
After all the waxing was done, I added two glass drawer pulls from Hobby Lobby.
So very chic with the stripes and the new pulls!
And now for some fun staged photos on the porch (including an antique press camera I found at a yard sale this weekend that I am in LOVE with)…
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CHALK PAINT® DECORATIVE PAINT BY ANNIE SLOAN:
*What is Chalk Paint®? It’s a decorative paint developed by Annie Sloan in 1990 named for its matte “chalky” finish. It is not the same as chalkboard paint.
*Pros:
- Thick paint means it will last longer- you can also add some water to make it thinner.
- Very easy cleanup as opposed to latex paint. Comes off my hands/arms/legs (I told you I was a messy painter) and even paint brushes easily with some soap and water.
- Paint can be used on any type of surface.
- No sanding or priming necessary (but sometimes a good idea based on the surface you’re planning to paint).
- Colors can be mixed to make infinite possibilities.
- Low VOC’s and almost no odor.
- Experts at Annie Sloan and specialty retailers all over the country are well-trained to answer questions and provide guidance.
*Cons:
- The price is higher than some other paints, but one quart does go a long way. Also, the benefits of the paint are worth it in my opinion.
- Only available through approved retailers worldwide, but new retailers are being added all the time.
*At the time of this review, I didn’t own a special Annie Sloan paint brush. I was using chip brushes from the hardware store (about $1.50 each) and cotton rags for waxing and my regular paint brushes for the Chalk Paint®. Chip brushes are not the best idea for waxing. I highly recommend buying one of Annie Sloan’s wax brushes! Read this new post about using an Annie Sloan wax brush.
*Find an Annie Sloan retailer HERE.
*There are also lots of YouTube videos available by retailers and bloggers for using the paint and wax. HERE is a link to the official Annie Sloan YouTube channel.
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How are you feeling; more confident? I know there’s a ton of information in this post but if you read through it all and follow the links provided you’ll be confident enough to try Chalk Paint® decorative paint by Annie Sloan and wax in no time! If you have other questions please leave a comment below and I’ll try to answer – or contact your nearest retailer for expert advice.
Jen
Find tons of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® project inspiration Here in my Project Gallery!
laurie says
Oh Wow! This turned out so pretty. The stripes are such a great idea, and I love the colors you chose. I’ve done a couple of pieces with A.S., and I love it. The time I save by not stripping, sanding and prepping the piece makes it worth the price, and you’re right, it goes a long way. Great post! laurie
Angie says
It looks great, Jen! I love the piece and the colors you chose. And the stripes really add such personality to it! Nice job! ~ Angie
Sharon says
You and Annie Sloan make a great pair. The vanity turned out so cute! Love the staging too.
I am probably the last blogger that hasn’t tried ASCP. I’m dying to use it though! Luckily, there is a stockist nearby.
Jeannie says
It looks very modern and chick. Love that old camera too. for what it’s worth
Danielle @ 2 Little Superheroes says
This looks so great. Love how to legs are white on the outside and black on the inside. I use milk paint all the time, but still have not tried Annie Sloan chalk paint. Need to try it out now that I see this.
SheilaG @ PlumDoodles.com says
Wow, the vanity looks amazing, Jen- great job! Love that camera, too. 🙂
Julie {Lilacs & Longhorns} says
I LOVE the way this turned out! It’s absolutely beautiful! What a great idea to do the stripes.
I, too, am a big fan of ASCP — love working with it and the end results are always fab! 🙂
Holly says
It looks amazing Jen! ASCP is so reliable… I never worry about getting a great result with the paint and your instructions were terrific. I love the stripes and the contrast on the legs. Great job!
Denyse @ Glitter, Glue & Paint says
Jen, the vanity turned out gorgeous! What a fantastic job and I love how the dark wax turned out. Like you the dark was is something I’ve never used. But, I might have to try it.
xoxo
Denyse
Jen says
Laurie, I totally agree. It’s a total timesaver with prepping and cleanup!
Jen says
Thanks Angie! You can never go wrong with classic black and white. 😉
Jen says
Sharon, let me know if you try it and how you like it. That’s great that you have a stockist nearby to help you out- many stockists offer painting classes too!
Jen says
Thanks Danielle! I have never tried milk paint, because I don’t really like the idea of having to mix it myself. Let me know if/when you try Annie Sloan!
Jen says
I couldn’t agree more Julie- thank you!
Jen says
Thank you Denyse! I think the dark wax toned down the white just enough- and it wasn’t as scary as I thought. LOL Let me know if you try it!
Jen says
Thanks Holly, I was worried maybe I had too many instructions listed but I hope they’re helpful for someone thinking of trying it. 🙂
Kathy says
The vanity turned out gorgeous, I loved the way you staged it the old camera. =) Great tutorial.
Carolyn Smith says
Hi Jen,
What a cute little piece! I love the dark paint on the inside of the legs. It really defines the shape and give the piece a sense of whimsy! I love it.
Amy @ StowandTellU says
Hi Jen, what a great post on ASCP! I know a lot more about it now than I did a few moments ago, that is for sure. I had no idea they had a YouTube channel, or retail locations for that matter. Your vanity is just out of this world stunning!! Thanks ~ Amy
Jen says
Thanks so much Kathy! I imagine that camera will make its way into many future photo shoots… 😉
Shanna Gilbert says
You did a fabulous job Jen! I love the stripes, it was super informative and the camera is awesome!
Jane @ Cottage at the Crossroads says
Jen, you took that vanity from blah to fabulous! Love the contrast on the legs especially! I have used AS chalk paint on several pieces, and I love the dark wax! It adds another whole dimension to the paint color and ages things beautifully. Most of the time I just apply it with a cloth and I have buffed it with a shoe brush!
Pat Good says
I love this. I am so happy I saw this before I waxed my chalk painted furniture. I really didn’t know what I was supposed to do. Now I feel comfortable attempting this. I have painted an old desk of my father’s a light purple (not sure what the color names were), the drawers a soft yellow and the drawer pulls dark purple and I think it looks great for someone who has not attempted many projects but wanted to do something different. Now I can wax! Thanks so much. If I can figure out how to send you the picture when finished I will to see what you think. Thanks again for your expertise.
Pat
Meegan says
Oh my goodness! You gave this a whole new life and I love it! Pinned 🙂
Sophie Blackwell says
What a gorgeous result! I just recently had my first experience with dark wax too and was very nervous. Like you, I found that applying clear wax to any areas with too much dark wax worked a treat. Great tip about the frogtape – must try!
littlebrownharevintage.wordpress.com
Clydia says
Jen — it looks fantastic! Great job on the post it was very informative! xoxo
Jenna says
Gorgeous, Jen! Love the stripes!
Adrianne at Happy Hour Projects says
Jen I LOVE LOVE how this turned out! Gorgeous!
Kimberly @ Colors Mixed Together says
Hi Jen, your piece turned out wonderfully! I love the stripes. I’m wondering what your inspiration was? I am so afraid of the dark wax myself and have never tried it. I think I may in the future thanks to you! Looking forward to working with you on Throwback Thursday!
Jen says
Pat, that’s awesome! I’m glad I was able to help give you the confidence to wax. I’d love to see your project when it’s finished.
Kathy says
I love the piece… the painted stripes gives it such a fresh new look.
Jen says
Thank you Carolyn, I love the legs too!
Jen says
Thanks so much Amy! Glad you like it!
Jen says
Thanks Sophie! Now I’ll have to plan my next project with dark wax to get a little more practice. I’m excited to try it on a piece with more detail. 🙂
Jen says
Kimberly, I think my inspiration was just several different painted pieces I had seen on the web and in books – and then I’ve always wanted to try stripes. 😉 Glad you like it, thanks!
Jen says
Thank you Adrienne, that’s so sweet! 🙂
Allison @ The Golden Sycamore says
Gorgeous, gorgeous piece! I love everything about it!!
Theresa @DearCreatives says
I have a vanity similar to this & have been thinking about painting it for some time! I love how yours turned out. Inspired to remake mine!
Jen says
Thank you Allison, that’s a big compliment from you! 🙂
Susan says
What a sophisticated vanity redo! You make it seem so easy with the clear steps in your tutorial. But I’m so intimidated by painting furniture. Thanks for sharing at Inspire Us Thursday on Organized 31.
Katie Goldsworthy says
She turned out beautiful! Love those handles and the lines! Thanks for linking up at Monday Funday!
Ruthie says
Great job on the vanity … it’s so eye catching!
Brittany aka Pretty Handy Girl says
Jen, what a sweet makeover! Love those chunky stripes.
Peggy~PJH Designs says
I love your vanity! It turned out gorgeous! You gotta love that chalk paint. I know I do. Thanks so much for sharing at Transformed Tuesday.
Hugs,
Peggy~PJH Designs
Kathy, Petticoat Junktion says
What a GORGEOUS makeover Jen. One of my favorites to date!
Jen says
Thank you Kathy – that’s a big compliment from someone so talented! It’s one of my favorites too. 🙂
Alli says
I’ve never used Annie Sloan paint and had loads of questions. Then I noticed this tutorial on your sidebar and clicked on. You answered all of my questions including the most important one to me, “Where do I buy it?” Thanks! I love your makeover, by the way!
Nina says
Thanks for the great tutorial on how to do stripes with ASCP, I have been procrastinating for about a month trying to work out the best way…and now I think I know!
Christina says
Gorgeous transformation, and what great details and information regarding the Annie Sloan paint. I’ve been wondering what the difference would be between the Annie Sloan vs. Martha Stewart and other brands. Definitely gives me the info I need to feel more confident about tackling some small pieces.
DeAnne says
The Annie Sloan paint brushes are well worth the money! I use mine for the wax only. You’ll never go back!
Jen says
OOOH I still need to get a wax brush! Thanks for reminding me DeAnne. 🙂 It’s definitely on my wish list. I hate having to throw my rags away after every piece I wax!
Tina says
I just painted grandmother’s mahogany armoire in Annie Sloan Old White. Looking for a great beige color to paint the bedroom walls that will compliment or make the armoire pop – any suggestions?
Jen says
Tina, I wish I was more of an expert on wall colors but unfortunately I’m not the best person to ask. I usually just pick a color and hope for the best! (Thankfully I put a little more effort into my furniture colors!) I do have a blogging friend though who also works in a paint store and she’d be a great person to ask. Here is Angie’s site: http://www.postcardsfromtheridge.com She also regularly shares her favorite paint colors and I believe she’s started doing some consulting too. (If you contact her, please tell her I sent you.) Hope that helps!
Marie Goodwin says
I am planning to paint my kitchen cabinets with chalk paint. I have white appliances. I am not sure if I should use pure white or old white. I am pretty sure I want to use light wax, because I don’t want my cabinets to look dirty. What is your opinion on White on white.
Jen says
Marie, I think white on white would be alright if you have other colors in the room, for example your backsplash or walls with some color to them. Also, who lives in your home with you? If you have small children you might want to think twice about white cabinets because they’ll be harder to keep clean. 😉 Of course you can always start by painting a test area (one cabinet or door) and then see how it looks. I only have experience with old white, which has just a little bit of cream to it (not much at all). Here’s a post from one of my blogging friends who painted her kitchen cabinets with ASCP: http://www.artsychicksrule.com/2013/11/kitchen-cabinet-makeover-annie-sloan-chalk-paint.html – it might help you out. Good luck- I’d love to see how it turns out!
Marie Goodwin says
Thank you.
karen melvin says
A friend and I wandered thru some antique malls yesterday and discovered many different versions of Chalk Painted furniture. We both pondered a similar question and I wondered if you could answer our question. I know that wax is used with the Annie Sloan painting techniques but does the waxy surface leave fingerprints or object prints on the surface of a desk or tabletop after the project is complete. Thanks, Karen.
Jen says
Karen,
Sorry I’m just now responding, I’ve had a sick little boy this week. 🙁
Wax will not leave any fingerprints or marks as long as it’s had enough time to cure, which is about 30 days for Annie Sloan wax. When I’m waxing a table I usually give the top of it 2-3 light coats, waiting a day or two between coats. Also- it’s not recommended to wax any pieces that will be outside or in any kind of prolonged heat, because the wax will become soft. Finally, if it’s a table that will be getting a lot of use (like a kitchen table) you may have to reapply the wax every so often to keep the finish thick and smooth. I haven’t done a kitchen table but I have some friends who have. Hope that helps!