Comparing 6 Popular Chalk Paints

I love chalk paint! I bought my first quart of chalk paint from Home Depot in the color Linen White. I painted everything! Then I discovered chalk paint at other hardware and retail stores. That's when I decided to do a comparison. 

I had heard about Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and seen the paint demonstrations online, but I knew that this paint was only available through distributors. I didn't have time for that!

How I Conducted My Demo

I bought six different chalk-style brands from various retail stores. Using popsicle sticks, I performed a very un-scientific paint demonstration. Basically, I dipped a popsicle in each container and recorded the paint's consistency--thick or runny. 

I'm not saying that runny paint is a bad thing! In fact, some users routinely add water to their chalky paint. I rarely do. I like the thickness of chalky paint.

The beauty of chalk paint is that it covers most surfaces without sanding. And it's very forgiving. 

                                              

Most chalk paints brands make claims that they will cover in one coat.  It has been my experience that two or more coats are always required to get the desired coverage. 

The paint dries so quickly and smoothly that it makes most defects almost disappear. The end result will be a chalk-like matte finish.

During my comparison, I documented the price of each brand and where brands might be purchased. I was surprised to discover that a higher price does not guarantee a more superior product. 

I compared brands that ranged in price from $9 - $30. One of the best brands, surprisingly, was the $9 paint. The consistency was great! Check! Drying time was great! Check! The color was solid, as advertised. Meaning, it was advertised as white and it turned out to be white. Not off-white. Check! The best thing was that I could find this paint at my local store. No ordering or distributors involved. This inexpensive paint checked off all the boxes!

I created a little cheat-sheet that contains price, where to buy the paints that I tested and my own rating system. These opinions are my own and are by no means scientific. It's a great reference tool for chalk paint novices.

For a FREE copy of my cheat-sheet, email me at lifeongreenwood@gmail.com or use the CONTACT US tab to reach out.

Paint Comparison Video: 

https://youtu.be/PNBirCHvITU

Things to Consider Before You Start Painting

Some tips: 

1.  Determine the type of surface you will be painting

2.  Determine if the location will be high traffic

3.  Set a budget. If cost is not an issue, there are plenty of options

4.  Decide if you have time to shop online or find an authorized distributor or if you want to shop your local hardware or retail store

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