How to make chalk paint

Adding plaster of Paris can turn certain types of paint into ‘chalky-finish’ paint. It should be noted that it will also lighten the colour a little, so bear this in mind when selecting your paint. There are certain types of paint that this technique works with:

• Flat latex paint (we’ve heard this can be the easiest to work with successfully)

• Eggshell paint

• Satin finish

• Paint and primer

You’ll need:

• One of the paints listed above

• Plaster of paris

• Mixing bucket

• Measuring cups (don’t use these for food afterwards!)

• Water

To make:

• Mix 100ml of Plaster of Paris with 100ml of cool water.

• Add in 300ml of your paint, and mix together thoroughly. The better you mix, the better the finish. You could even whisk your mixture, or sift it.

This should cover you for a medium sized piece of furniture (eg a dresser). You don’t have to stick to those exact measurements, but the proportion should be ⅓ part plaster / ⅓ part water to 1 part paint. This paint won’t keep, so we wouldn’t recommending storing it to reuse, but instead to mix up a new batch each time. You can always adjust the mixture while painting by adding more water or plaster of Paris.

You’ll need:

• Paint

• Calcium carbonate

• Mixing bowl

• Measuring cups (don’t use these for food afterwards!)

To make:

• Mix two parts paint with one part calcium carbonate - that's it!

• Calcium carbonate may be a little difficult to get hold of, but it’ll be worth it for this recipe. It produces a finish that can definitely compete with branded chalk paint, and it quick to mix up and apply. It dries within half an hour, and will even keep for a few days (with a thorough mixing).

If you get hold of chalk paint powder, you can mix this with  any type of paint. This makes a paint that is great for bonding to unusual surfaces. If you wanted to paint something like leather we recommend using this method. We also recommend going over it with a 400 grit sandpaper afterwards, to improve the texture. Once sanded, wipe down, and use a finishing wax.

If you don't fancy making your own,  you can always take the faster route, and simply buy pre-made chalk paint. You'll want to finish the paint with some kind of chalk paint wax, to put some control on the distressed look.

If you're looking for inspiration of what to do with your chalk paint, or how to use it, check out our article on chalk paint furniture ideas. We also have lots of upcycled transformations to inspire you!