Over the years I’ve grown fond of painting just about every single thing in sight. That’s due, in large part, to how easy chalk paint makes it to tackle just about any project. When spray chalk paint appeared on the scene several years ago, I became an immediate fangirl.
For some projects . . . not all of them.
Because I know you have lots of questions about it, I decided to share my chalky finish spray paint review! I hope it helps you decide whether or not it’s right for your painting projects.
This post was originally published in October 2015. It has been revised and updated in April 2021.
This post contains affiliate links. To read my full disclosure policy, please click here.
Test Subjects for this Review
In this review, I’m sharing my experiences with both Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint and Rustoleum Chalked Spray Paint. There are other brands of spray chalk paint on the market now, like Behr Chalk Decorative Paint and Kilz Chalk Spray Paint, but I haven’t tried those yet.
Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint
To test out the Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint, I used some clearance candle holders/pedestals. Here they are before I sprayed them.
And here they are after I spray painted them. Look at how solid and smooth that finish is.
Rustoleum Chalked Spray Paint
More recently, I used Rustoleum Chalked Spray Paint on some thrift store baskets that I used as above-the-bed art in my bedroom. These had a lot of detailing that would have been difficult to cover with paint and a paint brush.
Now that you’ve seen what I used spray chalk paint on, let me give you my totally unbiased review of the products. (Why is it unbiased, you ask? Well, I simply mean that this post has not been sponsored in any way, shape or form by Krylon, Rustoleum, or any other entity. It’s just me sharing my totally honest thoughts.)
Spray Chalk Paint Review: the Nitty Gritty on Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint and Rustoleum Chalked Spray Paint
Again, there are other spray chalk paint brands on the market, but Krylon and Rustoleum are the oldest and most widely available. Here is my experience and review of these brands.
Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint vs. Rustoleum Chalked Spray Paint
First things first, I don’t have a preference between these two brands. I like them both equally! With that in mind, read the rest of this review knowing that the review points I mention apply to both brands.
Chalk Spray Paint Coverage
Like regular chalky finish paint, spray chalk paint has excellent coverage. I used two coats of the product on each of the items I refinished, which is what I would have done for a solid finish with regular chalk paint.
The finish is opaque and very matte – also just like regular chalk paint.
Chalky Finish Spray Paint Odor
There is definitely an odor to chalky finish spray paint, unlike most regular chalk paints. You would be wise to use the product outside or in a well-ventilated area, and of course, while wearing a mask.
Suitable Project Types
To me, spray chalk paint is the PERFECT paint for smaller pieces that you want a super smooth and solid finish on, or pieces with intricate details that might be difficult to paint with a brush.
I would not refinish a large dresser with chalky finish spray paint because you would have to buy so many cans of it. That would get really expensive! But smaller furniture projects like chairs or stools are definitely doable!
If you have a larger project in mind, you would love the HomeRight Super Finish Max Sprayer, which lets you spray paint any “regular” chalk paint you want. I have this paint sprayer and used it to spray paint radiators and kitchen cabinets, among other things!
Paint Color Choices
Unfortunately, there aren’t many colors of chalky finish spray paint available. You can view Krylon’s Chalky Finish Spray Paint color chart and Rustoleum Chalked Spray Paint color chart on their websites.
If you’re hoping for a special or custom color for a project, you’ll probably want to go the regular paint and brush route.
Spray Chalk Paint Adhesion
From what I can tell, spray chalk paint adhesion is awesome, just like regular chalky finish paint. I did not sand before using it, and the paint is sticking wonderfully over many years of use.
As with regular chalk paint, it is important to make sure the surface you’re painting is clean before applying the paint. If you do that, it will not wash off.
Application
I actually thought applying chalky finish spray paint was easier than regular spray paint. It did not run as easily as regular spray paint, and I got a much more even finish with it than I do with regular spray paint.
Availability
I have purchased Rustoleum Chalked spray paint at Target and ACE Hardware, and Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint at Michaels and Hobby Lobby. Both brands are also available online at Amazon.
Sealing Spray Chalk Paint Projects
Both Krylon and Rustoleum also have spray wax products for sealing and protecting your projects. If interested in learning more about that, you can read my review of spray wax for chalk paint.
All in all, I think chalky finish spray paint is a great product for small projects and items with intricate detailing.
Have you tried spray chalk paint? If so, leave me a note and tell me about your experience with it!
-Bre
Leigh Anne says
Thanks for the unbiased review!! Somehow this product has never landed on my radar but now I’m psyched to use it!! I have a little bedside table I was about to hand paint with chalk paint anyway. Sweet!!
Leigh Anne says
Oh and I just noticed the little table on the front of the can looks just like the one I’m going to paint LOL!
Bre says
Oh, that’s perfect! That means it will DEFINITELY turn out amazing! 🙂
Sharlene says
I have not tried the paint you are talking about yet but i have used the Rust-Oleum Universal 12 oz. All Surface Matte French Cream Spray Paint and Primer. It worked great on some turned wooden lamp bases and gave a really noice chalk paint type finish, but the can ran out fast, three times faster than a regular can. If its anything like this chalk paint in terms of coverage, you would need at least two cans to cover that table on the front of the can. Same thing with the stone look paint by rustoleum…hardly covers anything
Bre says
Hi, Sharlene! Thanks for your comment! I haven’t tried the Rustoleum matte product, but that’s so good to know that it produces a chalky finish paint result! As for the Krylon product, I think you could probably do that table on the front in one can. But don’t hold me to it. 🙂
Bre says
Hey, Leigh Anne – thanks! Yes, I think you will really love it! A small table sounds like the perfect candidate for spray chalky finish paint. I hope it turns out well for you! 🙂
Janice says
You didn’t show us the frames you painted. Looking forward to adding this paint to my list of options. I am always looking for new paints and I too love the chalky finish!
Bre says
Ugh, Janice, I know! You would not believe the problems I was having getting this post even published! I could not get photos uploaded and I finally gave up on uploading the ones of the frames! They really did turn out awesome though, I swear. If you’re truly interested in seeing them, they are in my Fall Home Tour post, which I just published today. They’re hanging above my Changing Table Upcycle project in my living room. Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you enjoy the chalky finish spray paint!
Aimee, The Crazy Craft Lady says
I JUST saw this in the store the other day, and was wondering to myself how well it actually works. LOVE the review. Thanks so much!
Bre says
Yay! Thanks, Amy! Yeah – give it a try. I really do think it’s a great product!
Barbara Ann says
I have seen it and thought chalk paint & spraying don’t go in same sentence. But I’ve seen it at OSH here in California.
Chalk paint usually has a wax over it did you seal your frames in anyway?
Bre says
Hi, Barbara Ann – that is such a great question!! I did not seal my frames because I knew that they would be hanging on the wall and not withstanding a lot of use. If I were to have sprayed a table or piece of furniture, however, I DEFINITELY would have sealed them with wax or poly. Thanks so much and have a great day!
Ana Macedo says
I just got some Krylov Spray Calk paint and tested on some scrap wood and after drying applied different stains and wax finishes., before I tackled a dresser. Unfortunately the regular paste wax that I use on other regular chalk painted furniture pulls the chalk spray paint off, same with the minwax gel stain. have yet to use their own spray on wax. I would like to antique this bright blue, but I’m not sure if their spray on dark wax will do the trick.
Any thoughts?
Bre says
Hi, Ana! Oh gosh that is really surprising! So I have not tried the dark spray wax, but some commenters on this post swear by it. They say they love it! I did try the Krylon Spray Wax on non-Krylon chalk paint, and it worked just fine. I wonder if it was more a problem with the tester piece you used than the paint or gel stain because it seems strange that the paste wax would pull the chalky spray paint AND the Minwax gel stain off the piece. . . Anyway, good luck and sorry I cannot be of more real help!
Michelle says
Hobby Lobby has this paint also. They have more colors now then when I first discovered it a few months ago. I agree 100% with your review. I LOVE this stuff and it is perfect for me (I love spray paint in general lol) and I found that it dries MUCH faster than regular spray paint and has the flat finish that I need. I have also used the Dark Brown Spray Wax and I love it also. I do hope they add more colors soon! 😀
Christina says
The dark brown spray wax you mentioned… Can you give a tutorial on how and when to use it? I’ve been extremely reluctant to try the waxes in DIY projects but I love the way they look and want to venture into that territory. Thanks!!
Bre says
Hey, Christina – not sure if Michelle will get a notice that you asked her this question so I’m just going to pipe in with my experience on dark wax! I have only ever used dark brown Briwax, which I love! Basically, what I do is wax my entire piece with clear wax or seal it with poly. When that finish has cured, I apply dark brown Briwax with a soft, lint free cloth. Let it dry and then buff it. It gives such dimension and interest to a piece. You can see an example of where I used it in my son’s dresser makeover (in the House & Home tab on my home page). What’s great is if you apply it over clear wax and make a mistake with application, you can remove the excess dark wax with clear wax! So there’s really no risk in application!
Bre says
Oh, thank you Michelle!! It’s good to hear that someone who has used it agrees with the review! Also, thanks for your tip on the wax! I forgot to mention that they have a spray wax in the review. When I get the time I will amend the post to add that! Thanks again!!
Jenna says
love this review! I just did my first ever chalk paint project and used this because I got the cans for 40% off at Hobby Lobby…. It took about 4 cans to do 2 coats and thought it would be cheaper than the $30.00 can from Lowes! I stained the top but it worked great! I used Johnson clear wax and mo wax dark over it.. Can’t post a pic or I would – turned out great! I need to go buy some more. Only downside is I can’t use it in the garage in the winter! Lol
Bre says
That’s awesome Jenna!!! I wish I could see it! If you want, email it to me and I will share it on my SM. but you’re totally right that you can’t use it inside in the winter – bummer. Have you tried the Americana decor chalky finish paint? That stuff is almost odorless and I use it inside all winter long!
Kerry says
if you put wax on a piece, can you apply polyurethane to it? In case you wanted to put it outside?
Bre says
Hi Kerry! No- poly over wax won’t work. If you’re going to use the piece outside definitely just do a poly formulated for exterior use! I recently used wipe on poly for the first time and I found it much easier to use than brush on poly. Just a tip!
Mary says
It’s good to hear your feedback. I did not like it so much. I found it got very powdery in places. I agree it would be best for more detailed pieces. I would use it again only in that way.
Bre says
Hi Mary! Thanks for your feedback! I’d love to know what kind of surface you used it on where it turned powdery. And I agree – for large and/or simple pieces, I would probably still use regular chalky paint. Thanks again!
MandaMess says
I seen this when it was introduced at CHA (via YouTube) and in the stores. Anyone can locate this product on the website. I tried to paste, but its not working. I remember: ACE, Sherwin Williams, Hobby Lobby, Michaels, Joanns (I’ve personally seen it at all three craft stores) and Walmart.
I’ve been curious about it also! Thanks.
Bre says
Thanks so much! Good to know you can get it at Ace and Sherwin Williams!! Hope you like it if you test it out! Have a great day. 🙂
Pickle House Vintage Style says
I am purchasing a beautiful chandelier to repurpose for outdoor use. I planned on spray painting as the chalk paint and brush would take so long. Does this dry as fast as chalk paint and do you think distressing would be possible with the paint? Michaels is at best a 140 mile round trip for me so I thought it was better to ask than to assume it had all the qualities of chalk paint in a can.
Also, glad I found your blog, will be signing up after I post this comment!
Lori
Bre says
Hi, Lori – that sounds like an awesome project!! So I definitely found that the chalky spray paint dried quickly. The can says 20 minutes to touch, I believe. I did not personally try to distress the finish on my pieces, so I am not 100% certain how that would look. But I think it would be fine since it does seem to have the properties of regular chalky finish paint. As for sealing your piece, if it’s for outdoor use I would probably not use the spray wax but go with a spray poly that’s suitable for exterior use! I am sorry your Michaels is 140 miles round trip – I would cry! Hahaha. Check out the store locator on Krylon’s site and see if you can get some closer to you! Or order from Amazon. That is just too far!! Finally, thanks for your nice note and for signing up – it means a lot to me and I appreciate it!! 🙂
Lori says
Thanks for your reply. Going to search for a close retailer or place my order online. I have to say I would not give up life in our little farmhouse in the country to be closer to shopping! It’s great to make it a full day when I go to the “big city” although our big city adventures here would still be considered small town for most.
Lori says
Found the Chaulk Finish Spray Paint on e-bay for an awesome price and free shipping! I can’t wait to try it.
Bre says
YAY! That is awesome! I’m excited you found some and didn’t have to pay a fortune or drive forever! Happy painting. 🙂
carol says
I’m confused. I always use homemade chalk paint. I did my kitchen, 2 bathrooms, dining room chairs, end tables. Love it. Why use chalky finish spray paint, it would cost too much. I love spray paint with primer. I have all colors. But I use that for baskets and small items. I just want to know how to bring out the intricate parts of the piece accentuating crevices. Do you have tutorials on this?
Bre says
Hi, Carol! I think for many people it’s all about the convenience. Saves them the time of purchasing the materials needed to make chalk paint, mix it up, and store it. Plus, the spray is amazing for smaller items and especially those that you want a super smooth finish on (instead of a more rustic look). But I agree that making your own (especially if you’re a prolific chalky paint user), is a GREAT way to go! As for accentuating intricate parts or crevices, I love to use dark wax (like Briwax in dark brown), or antiquing glazes (in any color – grays are pretty and even so are metallics!). Have you tried those? I don’t have any tutorials on my blog, but if you apply a dark wax with a lint free cloth to those areas, I bet you will love it! The beauty of dark wax, too, is that if you apply too much, you can “erase” it with clear wax. Hope that helps!!
Debbie says
I love this spray paint and like you I don’t do well with sprays…
I will tell you it works beautifully for painting glass bottles, as in adult type beverage and mason jars… You can even distress it with a little dark wax!!!
Bre says
Hi, Debbie! Thanks so much for your feedback! Sounds like I need to make some chalky spray painted jars pronto! 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by!
elly says
I love this chalk paint, it covers so well and its so matte! Worked great on my mason jars. 🙂 The candle holders look great!
Ive tried the gray, pink, teal, ivory and the brown. The brown was chunky and oil like though, it seems different than the other colors…
They sell it at the Valu Home Center here in NY so if any of you have one near you check it out. 🙂
Bre says
Hi, Elly! Wow – so good to know about the brown! Thanks so much for sharing your experiences with the paint! Have a great day!
Ashley says
This is the best stuff EVER invented! I sprayed a table and 4 chairs with a ton of spindles, distressed and spray waxed all in an hour! HIGHLY RECOMMEND USING THIS! Especially on chairs and inside of cabinets! Hobby Lobby sells it cheaper than Michaels… But both have weekly coupons. You will need more coats when you use the lighter colors. The wax is awesome too! I actually use it on all my pieces that I paint with other chalk paint brands! It is quick and easy and leaves a smooth beautiful finish. Be sure to sand your piece with fine sand paper/block before you wax to get a nice smooth finish!
Bre says
Hi, Ashley! THANK YOU for your input!!! This is great information! Yes, I definitely thought that chairs with spindles would be perfect candidates for this stuff! I always steer clear of spindly chairs because hand brushing them is such a pain! So good to know about the wax, too! I am planning to buy some this week and test it out!! Appreciate your feedback! 🙂
Rhondi Lance says
Is there any chance you can send me a pic of something you distressed? Did you just distress to the original or did you use two color of paints? Thank you.
[email protected]
Lori says
I haven’t seen this product in stores here in SC yet but I don’t go as often as I used to. I checked out Amazon and the prices are really high for one can and it says that is a discounted price! I can’t help but wonder if the price is a result of the popularity of chalk paint or if it costs that much more to manufacture it over the cost of regular spray paint?? I think I will try it anyway based on your review, great article!!
Bre says
Hi, Lori – thank you!!! So Amazon can definitely tend to be higher priced sometimes! I think I remember it being around $9 a can at Michaels (regular priced). If you’re heading to a craft store soon you should definitely ask them if they carry it. It may be hiding somewhere random in the store! Then you wouldn’t have to pay the high price on Amazon. Thanks so much for stopping by my blog! 🙂
Kate Sisterhood of Salvage says
Thanks for the great report!! I hadn’t noticed this product on the shelf yet myself!! I will definitely give it a try on some smaller projects now in progress. It looked as if the colors available at the Krylon website were not too bad of a variety.
I’m always checking for the latest tools and techniques to speed up a step or perfect my project process and create the best look possible for my customers. I will report back for sure!!
You provided me a great resource to check out. Great!!
I look forward to your newsletter…WooHoo new subscriber here!!
Best regards
Kat 🙂
(Owner Sister of (“Sisterhood of Salvage”) Colorado
Bre says
Hi, Kat! THANK YOU!! I appreciate your sweet words and that you subscribed to my newsletter! I’m going to see if I can find a business page for you on Facebook so I can give you a like and see your work! I hope you enjoy the paint if you give it a try. Next up I’m going to try the spray wax and see what I think of it. Hopefully it will be just as awesome! Have a great day. 🙂
Heather at The Black's Best says
I didn’t know this stuff existed…a little slow on the uptake I guess. My mind is spinning with all of the projects I can do with this stuff! Unlike you…I LOVE spray paint of all kinds and will be trying this right away! Thanks for the review!
Bre says
Hahaha, Heather – oh my gosh, I wish I weren’t such a terrible spray painter. Oh well, I guess it could be worse. You will DEFINITELY love this stuff. It is so awesome!! Happy painting! 🙂
G says
I’ve seen it in Menards, Hobby lobby, Walmart and Home Depot.
Thanks for the review have always been curious.
Bre says
Oh! You are so lucky! I have not seen it at my home repair stores. I wonder if they’re starting to broaden out their markets? I will keep an eye out for it! Thanks for your note and for reading!
Debbie Browning says
I’ve used this a little bit and liked it for small, intricate projects, but the best was on a lamp shade!
it was a shade I already had but the wrong color for the lamp I was using. Gave it a couple of coats of white chalky paint and wow! does it ever look beautiful!
Bre says
NICE! That is a perfect item to use this stuff on. Love it! Don’t you feel fabulous when you can save an item that might not be exactly right, all with a little paint? Thanks for stopping by!
Linda Green says
I have used the Krylon chalky finish paint and think it is also pretty good for small pieces. The can itself is not cheap, but no chalk paint is. It doesn’t cover a whole lot, in fact, less than a regular can of spray paint. I will use it again for mall projects where a really smooth finish is wanted. I just did a wood cart on wheels and it looks awesome compared to if I had painted it with chalk paint and much better even than regular spray paint. Worth the try.
Bre says
Linda, I agree 100% with everything you’ve said! Even though the price point is a bit higher, I feel like the time saved in prepping the surface and waiting for paint to dry makes up for it! Plus that ultra smooth finish is amazing! 🙂
Barbara Russell says
Oh my goodness! I found your project on Pinterest. I have 2 of these exact candle stands that I got at my local Goodwill Store for next to nothing! I have used one in a home staging but the blue/terra cotta finish is not the easiest to incorporate into most color schemes. I just did my first furniture piece in chalk paint at a client’s request and knew I would do more! I will definitely try the spray chalk paint for my candle stands. Thanks for the inspiration, Bre! P.S. Love your changing table turned into a console table. Great piece!!
Bre says
Barbara! That is SO crazy that you have the exact same stands!!! I got them at Target on super clearance a couple of summers ago and never used them because that blue finish did not go with my decor. But I’m telling you, now that they’re repainted I use them all the time! They’re even on my Christmas mantel right now holding up my tiny trees! I am so glad you are liking chalk painting – I think you will LOVE it for your home staging projects. You’ll be able to repurpose just about anything! Thanks for stopping by and for leaving such a sweet note. You made my night. 🙂
Rhonda says
Someone may have already said this, but I’ve gotten some at Joann fabrics & hobby lobby.
Bre says
Awesome! Thanks, Rhonda!
Christine says
Came in via Pinterest.
Nice. I’ll have to look for this. I’ve been making chalk paint myself with great results, but sometimes something quick and easy is nice.
“Honest opinion.” I gotta ask. What is a dishonest opinion? A lie? I think “honest opinion” is the “irregardless” of the 2000teens.
But all that aside, you’re very thorough, which is really appreciated.
Bre says
Ha! Christine, all I meant is that a lot of times on blogs you read reviews that are disingenuous in the sense that the person writing the review is being paid to give their opinion, which is always glowing (since they’re being paid to write about the product)! This post is 100% honest because I received no compensation for writing it, and it is based entirely on my experience with the product. I shared the positives and negatives of it, instead of glossing over the negatives as happens in the case of other reviews. That is all I meant by “honest opinion.” And unlike “irregardless,” which is not a word, “honest opinion” is actually a real phrase. I am glad you appreciated the review and I hope that you enjoy using the paint, if you buy a can. It is really great for small projects! Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you enjoy the rest of your night!
Christine says
I did try the paint on some deck furniture. It’ll do quite nicely!
I find sprays waste so much paint, but save so much time. Dilemma.
Re: “Honest Opinion.” I guess I frequent or find myself on blogs where people overcompensate with the disclaimer, so I’ve not run into … dishonest … or disingenuous opinions. Most DIY and Home type blogs seem to go overboard letting the reader know they’ve been or not been paid. Then you see, “I’m being paid a small, tiny, teensy pittance (or given the tool, etc) to write this review — BUT! I wouldn’t write if I didn’t like the product.”
I guess at the point of my original reading here, I’d come from a blog that talked about some clear coat finish. She said, “honest opinion” 22 times. I don’t remember her, the content, or the product, just that count. I won’t get into the reply count mentioning the “honest opinion.” It’s EVERYWHERE! EveryWHERE, I SAY!
Anyway. ‘Nuff said. I’ve enjoyed coming back and reading some. Thanks for your …. opinion and experience! 🙂
Bre says
Christine – that is awesome!! I’m glad it worked out on the deck furniture. 🙂 And as for posts where the blogger has been paid – we are required under US law to do that! I know it comes across as annoying, but we have to do it. 🙂 Interesting perspective though. Thanks again for stopping by and commenting. 🙂
Janet says
I bought my Krylon chalky finish spray paint at Hobby Lobby – on sale @ 30% off. Glad to see this review since I haven’t used it yet.
Bre says
Oh, Janet you are lucky you got it on sale! I am excited for you to try it. I hope you love it! I can’t wait for spray painting season to start again (ha!).
Jayne says
I am the queen of using spray paint but have never tried this. Thanks for sharing. Just got a table I’ll use it on
Bre says
Hi, Jayne! That’s awesome! I hope you love the product! Good luck 🙂
Leslie says
I bought some today at Hobby Lobby with a 40% off coupon. Excited to try it on a couple of end tables.
Bre says
Nice!! SO smart to use the coupon. I hope your tables turn out amazing!!
Donna says
I loved this blog. Going shopping on my lunch hour. I have been wanting so badly to know what to purchase on some very intricate frames that I want to paint for my daughter’s new home. Thank you so much!!
Bre says
Hi, Donna! You are too sweet! Thank you for your nice comment. I am so glad this post helped you. Have you had a chance to spray the frames yet? How did they turn out? I hope the project was a success!
Jela says
Dear Bre,
I am from Germany and did paint some furniture with chalk paint. Just recently, we bought a new flat in South of France. The kitchen in the flat is only a few years old and was expensive, but absolutely not my taste.
Do you think, I can change it with chalk spray paint? Also should I use wax in the inside and outside also, or just seal it with some spray. The inside is the same color as the outside.
I appreciate your opinion.
Thanks a lot
Jela
Bre says
Hi, Jela! First off, congrats on your new flat! I would like to come visit – hahahaha! 🙂 No but seriously, I think that using this product to re-do your cabinets would be SUPER expensive. The spray chalk paint does not go nearly as far as the brush-on chalk paint. I would really recommend finding some tutorials online for proper cabinet painting and sealing, because that is a surface that will get a LOT of heavy use. Also, I would definitely say that wax is not what you’d want to use to seal the cabinets, even if you do a brush-on chalky paint. You’re going to need something that’s more durable, like a tough coat or polyacrylic. But again, a good tutorial on cabinet painting should point you in the right direction. Thank you so much for stopping by and good luck with your project! 🙂
Barb says
Does adding the plaster lighten the color of the paint? Thanks
Bre says
Hi, Barb! Instead of plaster do you mean the spray wax finish? Sorry – I’m just a little confused! Anyway, if you do mean spray wax, I will say that no – I have not noticed any difference in the color of the paint once sprayed with the wax. Hope that helps!
Denise says
I just bought Krylon Chalk paint at a Tru Value store, now I need to go back and buy the wax coating.
Thank you for all your great tips .
Bre says
Good to know! Thanks, Denise!! I hope your chalky paint project turned out great! 🙂
Penny says
I wish I had read your post before I painted a really big dresser with the spray paint. You are right. It is expensive. I had to keep going back and buying more cans. And I found the smell really bad. Also it is very chalky and rubs off on your clothes. It loos ok but I am not sure it will be durable. Any hints what kind of wax or sealer I can use to,prevent the chalk rubbing off and without pulling the paint off? In some places the paint kept bubbling off and I had to remove it and sand it over and over and it still would not stick. I had washed the piece well but did not prime it. Any help,appreciated.
Bre says
Hi, Penny! Argh, it sounds like you’re having a lot of trouble! For those areas where it is continually bubbling off, you could try to remove the paint in that area with sandpaper, cleaning it off, spraying with Zinsser Shellac, letting that dry, and then repainting again. That may help you out. Once you get that part figured out, I would say to try General Finishes’ tough coat product to seal it. Since it’s a dresser it will get a lot of wear, so you want a really good sealer on there. For smaller pieces, you could definitely try a wax product in the future. Good luck and I hope you get the piece to a place that you love!
Kelly says
Hi Bre, this stuff looks awesome! I definitely want to try it out soon but I do have a question I would like your opinion on. I know you said it is best for small projects, I plan on re-doing a fairly large end table and I am not sure if 1 can would cover it. I was wondering if I could do a few coats of just regular white spray paint and then finish with 1-2 coats of white chalk spray paint for the chalky finish? Do you think that would work? Thanks!
Bre says
Hi, Kelly! Hmmm . . . I honestly don’t know the answer to that! I’m sorry! I would think you’d be better off to just buy a jar of chalky paint and paint it on. You can get a jar of Americana Decor for about $8, which is less than a few cans of spray paint! I am just not sure about the adhesion of chalky spray paint over regular spray paint. I’m sorry!
Lynn says
Hi Bre
I untortunatley did not have the positive results that others have had with the Krylon Chalk paint. I was painting a side table and the first coat went on fine. Everythingcwent bad after that the paint bubbled. Everywhere there was new spray shows blotches. We tried sanding down the table. Repainting, still blotchy. Contacted Krylon and they refunded our purchase but the table is useless and looks terrible. I would post a picture but i do not have the ability to do so. I am very dissappointed and will probably not buy the paint again. Thank forvthe opportunity to share my experience.
Bre says
Oh no!! I am so sorry to hear about your bad experience! Even though your money was refunded, you’re left with a bad table, which stinks. I am so sorry!
Deb Selwyn says
I used this for a metal folding occasional chair today. It dried outside and I was bringing it in and the powdery residue came of on my hands and shirt -like chaulk. So, tomorrow I will go look for the spray poly to seal it. Since these are chairs, clothes will be rubbing on them and I need the paint to not rub off!
Bre says
Deb oh no! That doesn’t sound good! I hope the sealer worked to contain the dusty residue. I don’t recall that happening when I used it!
Deb Selwyn says
Problem solved with a wipe of a damp cloth! No poly needed!
Bre says
Excellent!!!
Michelle says
Love all the chalk spray paint stories. I was wondering how chalk paint works with decoupage. Need to paint a frame. Once the frame is painted I will decoupage over the paint. I am guessing the chalk paint would be too expensive to use as a base coat under decoupage. Then wondering if the mod podge will work over the chalk paint. Any ideas or advice.
Bre says
Hi, Michelle! Yeah, I definitely would avoid using the chalky finish spray paint underneath decoupage. It is way too expensive for that. A brush on paint should be more cost-effective! I have decoupaged over chalk paint before and it works just great! Here’s a link to furniture project where I did that: https://averageinspired.com/2016/07/side-table-makeover.html Good luck!
Dee says
I have the last few days used a chalky spray paint on a coffee table as it has twists in it i thought this would be better that a brush and chalk paint- no idea what I am doing wrong though – after first coat i left required time before going back to spray a 2nd coat, but when i touched it loads of the paint came off in a fine dust but lots off it – I sprayed lightly but so much came off i could see the wood again… Not inspired by this yet but will keep trying
Bre says
UGH! Dee that sounds terrible! The one thing that’s coming to mind is that there could be something on the table’s surface that is preventing the paint from sticking or adhering properly. You could try spraying it with Zinsser Shellac beforehand, or a primer, and then trying it again. Good luck!
Laura says
Hi,
I actually just used this product to spray paint a picture frame. Does a project like a picture frame still need the wax added on top of it? Or is the spray paint enough? I figured because you did picture frames as well, you might have the answer. Thanks!
Bre says
Hi! I did not use wax over the picture frames. I’m a rebel like that. 🙂 You will probably be fine. If you notice it starts scratching, just respray and then give it a coat of wax. 🙂
Louise says
Love the chalk paint for small objects, however, I used it for a few pieces (chair and small tables) and applied two coats of the matte polycrylic to protect the paint and it does an amazing job, protects if you bump something on the sides.
Jeanne says
Can you use this chalk spray on outdoor pieces?
Bre says
Hi! Yes you could, but you’d need to make sure to seal it really well with an outdoor sealer appropriate for tough weather conditions! Good luck. 🙂
Peggy says
I have some dining room chairs and they have spindles on them. How much sanding do you do before you paint?
Bre says
Hi, Peggy! It totally depends on how much sheen or gloss there is on the existing finish. If there is a lot and/or if they are not real wood, I sand more than if they are a matte finish.