Best Paint For Distressing Furniture (2024 Update)
If you're looking for a way to update your furniture and give it a DIY shabby chic look, distressing may be the perfect solution. However, distressing requires a specific paint that will wear away easily and create the desired look. With so many options available, choosing the best paint for distressing furniture can be overwhelming.
Before buying any products, it's crucial to consider the type of furniture being painted and the desired level of distressing. Different paints may work better for certain types of furniture and some may distress more easily than others. The color and finish of the paint should also be considered, as they can affect the final result. Additionally, the amount of preparation and finishing required with certain paints should be taken into account.
Are you looking for a paint that dries quickly for a faster project, or, are you willing to take your time and opt for a more complex technique that will result in fewer coats? Do you prefer a paint with low VOC content for environmental reasons? How important is the price of the paint to you? Answering these questions can assist in finding the best paint for distressing furniture that will meet all personal requirements.
Overall, selecting the right paint is crucial for achieving a successful distressed furniture project. With the right paint, technique and a little patience, your furniture can be transformed into a unique piece with a beautiful antique look.
10 Best Paint For Distressing Furniture
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This product is ideal for use on furniture and craft projects.
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The product is ideal for painting furniture and craft projects with a chalk finish in assorted colors.
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Ideal for giving furniture, home decor, and DIY crafts a colorful makeover with an eco-friendly, easy-to-use chalk style paint.
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The product is ideal for giving a distressed or vintage look to furniture and decor.
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This product is ideal for adding a vintage look to furniture and craft projects.
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It is ideal for distressing furniture for a shabby chic look by layering chalk paints and other techniques.
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The product is ideal for painting furniture and craft projects with a crackle finish.
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Ideal for enriching the aesthetic appeal of home decor, furniture, cabinets, walls, and floors through a non-toxic water-based chalk finish.
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Ideal for refinishing and painting furniture with a smooth finish and antique look, with the included wax kit.
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This product is ideal for painting furniture with a beachy or earthy color palette, while also being environmentally friendly.
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1. Cottage White Chalk Paint For Home Decor
Introducing the versatile FolkArt Home Decor Chalk White Acrylic Paint, a perfect solution for all your home decor projects. The 32 oz size is a convenient and economical option for DIY enthusiasts and professional artists alike. This chalk paint is highly pigmented, making it ideal for creating a rich and vibrant finish on any surface.
This unique white acrylic chalk paint provides an ultra-matte finish that adds a touch of elegance to your decor. FolkArt Home Decor Chalk requires minimal surface prep, and it's easy to distress, layer, and sand to achieve a perfect aged look. With this chalk paint, you can unleash your creativity and transform any piece of furniture or home decor item.
The versatility of this chalk paint is remarkable. It dries quickly on a variety of surfaces, including wood, glass, metal, terra cotta, and many more. You can use it to create a vintage-inspired look on any surface, be it a lampshade, a vase, or a piece of furniture.
Clean up is a breeze with FolkArt Home Decor Chalk. You can easily clean up while the paint is still wet, using soap and water. No need for harsh chemicals or solvents.
FolkArt Home Decor Chalk is proudly made in the USA, ensuring high quality and consistent results. It is a preferred brand among crafters, painters, and artists, and a staple in any collection of art supplies. With FolkArt Home Decor Chalk, you can turn your home decor dreams into reality. So, grab a brush and start painting!
2. Folkart 38730 Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint In Assorted Colors, 16 Ounce, Parisian Grey
Introducing FolkArt Home Décor Chalk – the perfect paint for all your larger home décor projects! This unique chalk acrylic paint boasts a rich and highly pigmented formula, conveniently packaged in a 16 oz size.
What sets FolkArt Home Décor Chalk apart is its gorgeous ultra-matte finish. Once dry, this versatile acrylic chalk paint requires minimal surface prep, making it easy to distress and layer. With the ability to be sanded, it creates a perfect aged look and feel, adding character and charm to any project.
This unique home décor paint is designed to dry quickly on a variety of surfaces, including wood, glass, metal, terra cotta, and much more. Clean up is easy with FolkArt Home Décor Chalk – simply clean up while wet with soap and water.
Proudly made in the USA, FolkArt Home Décor Chalk is a preferred brand among crafters, painters, and artists alike. It offers an artist-quality formula that is water-based, non-toxic, and has a creamy consistency for exceptional blending and shading.
For added protection, FolkArt Home Decor Wax can be applied to all your DIY home décor projects. This wax layer will seal and protect your finished product, ensuring its longevity and durability.
3. Eco-Friendly Chalk Style Paint – Twilight Teal (32oz)
The Chalk Style Paint offered by this brand is a top-of-the-line solution for painting a variety of surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. This versatile paint can be used on furniture, wood, laminate, glass, resin, metal, brick, cement and more. Whether you're looking to restore an antique dresser or add a pop of color to your front door, this paint has you covered.
Designed specifically for use on furniture, cabinets, upholstery, and home decor, this Chalk Style Paint is also perfect for a wide range of craft projects. With its smooth and even finish, this paint can be used to achieve a variety of styles, from distressed and shabby chic to modern and contemporary. The best part? Little to no prep work is required, making it easy to use straight out of the can. It's even spray gun ready for added convenience.
This eco-friendly and safe paint is ultra-low VOC, hypoallergenic, and has very little odor. It's kid and indoor friendly, making it a great choice for families with young children or pets. For added protection, the finish can be sealed with a clear furniture wax or polycrylic.
In just 30 minutes, this Chalk Style Paint dries to a smooth and chalky matte finish that's easy to distress and very durable with a silky finish. You can trust that this high-quality paint will produce professional results every time. Plus, it's made right here in the USA, so you can feel good about supporting American-made products. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional painter, this Chalk Style Paint is sure to exceed your expectations.
4. Rust-Oleum 331050 Milk Paint Finish, Quart, Highland Blue
Introducing the perfect solution for accentuating interior décor and furniture with a unique brushed effect – the Brushed Matte Finish Paint. This top-quality paint is formulated with a water-based, low VOC, and low-odor formula, making it safe for use in any indoor space.
This high-performance paint covers up to 125 sq. ft. per quart, offering exceptional value for your money. It dries to the touch in just 30 minutes and is ready for recoating in as little as 2 hours. This feature makes it a perfect choice for those who want to complete their painting projects quickly.
One of the best things about this paint is its excellent adhesion. It provides a one-step buildable coating, making it easy to finish new, vintage, or antique items. This feature makes it an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts, professional painters, and those who want to update their home décor effortlessly.
The Brushed Matte Finish Paint has a lightly textured matte finish, adding depth and richness to any surface. You can layer this paint with different techniques for a custom look that matches your unique style.
In addition to its exceptional performance, this paint is also easy to clean. Simply use soap and water to remove any stains or smudges. This feature makes it a practical choice for high-traffic areas that require frequent cleaning.
5. Folkart Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Acrylic Paint In Assorted Colors, 8 Ounce, Antique Wax
The FolkArt Home Décor Antiquing Wax is a versatile and convenient solution to protect and seal DIY home décor projects. This paraffin-infused wax comes in an easy-to-use 8 oz bottle, which is perfect for use with the FolkArt Home Décor Wax Paint Brush. With its smooth finish, this wax dries with a sepia-tone finish and provides long-lasting protection to all your DIY home décor projects.
The application of this wax is easy and hassle-free. Simply load your brush with a small amount of wax and use a downward, circular motion to apply. It is essential to work the wax into your project's crevices and details for an even finish. Once applied, allow the wax to dry for 1-2 hours, then buff with a soft cloth. The more you buff, the glossier the sheen.
Cleaning up excess wax is simple with the FolkArt Home Décor Antiquing Wax. Wipe up any extra with a paper towel. It is recommended to keep waxed surfaces free of moisture and heavy use for 7 days after application. Repeat the application every 6-12 months, or as needed, for maximum protection.
FolkArt is a trusted brand among crafters, painters, and artists. It is a staple in any collection of art supplies. This wax sealer and protectant is perfect for individuals who are passionate about home décor projects and want to achieve a professional finish. With its easy application, simple maintenance, and trusted brand, the FolkArt Home Décor Antiquing Wax is a must-have in any DIY enthusiast's toolkit.
6. All Natural Beeswax Distressing Puck – Great For Shabby Chic Layering Chalk Furniture Paints & More!
Introducing the All Natural Beeswax Shabby Chic Distressing Puck – a versatile tool that helps create layered finishes with ease and convenience. This 1.3oz puck is designed to distress furniture and other surfaces without the need for sanding edges. Simply use water and lightly wipe over the painted surface to achieve the desired effect.
Before using the distressing puck, it is recommended to allow the paint to dry fully for best results. The puck is safe to use both indoors and outdoors, making it a great addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolkit.
Made in the USA, this beeswax puck is of high quality and is guaranteed to meet customer satisfaction. In the unlikely event of a manufacturer defect, the company offers a free replacement upon presentation of a photo.
Get creative with your furniture and decor projects with the All Natural Beeswax Shabby Chic Distressing Puck. It's easy to use, effective, and guaranteed to deliver great results.
7. Folkart Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Acrylic Paint In Assorted Colors, 8 Ounce, Crackle
Introducing the Craft-Folk Art Home Decor Crackle Medium by Plaid, the perfect solution for creating a unique crackled effect on your wooden surfaces. With this medium, you can add a touch of vintage charm and character to your home decor projects.
Each jar contains 8oz of high-quality crackle medium, providing you with ample product to complete multiple projects. The product has been made in the USA, ensuring that you receive a premium quality formula.
Using this crackle medium is incredibly easy. Simply apply a base coat of paint onto your wooden surface, let it dry completely, and then apply the crackle medium. As the medium dries, it will create a crackled effect, giving your project a beautifully aged appearance.
The Craft-Folk Art Home Decor Crackle Medium is perfect for creating a variety of designs, including shabby chic, rustic, and farmhouse styles. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, ceramic, and more.
8. Deep Lagoon Jolie Chalk Paint – Sample Size
The Premier Chalk Finish Paint is a versatile and user-friendly product that offers a hassle-free painting experience. With minimal to no prep required, this paint can be easily applied to a variety of interior surfaces without the need for sanding or priming.
What's more, this water-based paint can be cleaned up effortlessly with soap and water, making it an ideal choice for indoor use. The non-toxic and low VOC formula of this paint ensures that it is safe to use around the house.
One of the standout features of this paint is its superior coverage. A 32oz quart can cover approximately 150 sq. ft., while a 4oz sample can cover up to 20 sq. ft. Most colors require only 1-2 coats, making it an economical choice for those on a budget.
The Premier Chalk Finish Paint dries quickly in just 30 minutes, leaving behind a flat (matte) finish. For those looking for a higher sheen, the paint can be used with Jolie Finishing Wax and buffed to achieve the desired effect.
9. Renovate With Ivory Tower Chalk Paint Kit
This furniture paint is designed to provide exceptional results with minimum effort. It offers superior coverage, usually requiring only 1 to 2 coats, and it adheres exceptionally well to a wide variety of surfaces. Little-to-no preparation work is required, just ensure the surface is clean before applying.
Formulated specifically for furniture, cabinets and home decor, this paint can also be used for various craft and art projects. It works great for both interior and exterior projects, and for outdoor use, it is recommended to apply a marine finish topcoat like Polytique It before applying the clear wax.
The paint dries within 30 minutes to a contemporary finish with the clear wax, or a chalky matte finish that is easy to distress if desired. It is exceptionally durable, ensuring that your furniture or home decor will look great for a long time.
This eco-friendly furniture paint is low odor, ultra-low VOC, and hypoallergenic with virtually no smell. You can enjoy painting your furniture or home decor without any harsh fumes or health concerns.
10. Chalk Mountain Beachy Wisteria Furniture Paint.
The product boasts a non-toxic formula that has zero VOC and low odor, providing a safe and healthy environment for indoor use. It dries quickly in just 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for busy individuals.
With a wide range of 54 beachy and earthy colors to choose from, customers have the freedom to select the perfect shade to match their preferences. Additionally, the product is available in three sizes, allowing for flexibility in usage depending on the project at hand.
Made in the USA, the product is freshly made to order, ensuring high quality and potent coverage. Its superior coverage guarantees that users can achieve the desired look with ease.
It is important to note that while the product images may display differently on various devices, the actual colors for sale are consistent with the 54 color options.
To ensure safety, it is recommended that the product be kept out of reach of children.
Best Paint For Distressing Furniture FAQs
Can you distress furniture with acrylic paint?
Yes, you can distress furniture with acrylic paint. Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that is suitable for a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and plastic. When used for distressing furniture, acrylic paint can create a beautiful patina and add character to your piece.
To distress furniture with acrylic paint, you can start by selecting a base color and applying it to your furniture piece. Once the paint is dry, you can use sandpaper or a sanding block to gently rub away the paint in areas where you want to create a distressed effect. You can also use a dry brush to lightly apply another color of acrylic paint over the base coat to create a layered effect.
It's important to note that distressing furniture can require some trial and error to achieve the desired effect, so it's always a good idea to practice on a small area before tackling the whole piece. Additionally, you may want to seal your distressed furniture with a clear coat of acrylic varnish to protect the finish and make it more durable.
Can you distress furniture with chalk paint?
Yes, you can distress furniture with chalk paint. In fact, one of the benefits of using chalk paint is that it makes it easy to achieve a distressed look. Chalk paint has a matte finish and a thick consistency, which makes it perfect for creating a vintage or shabby chic look on furniture. To distress furniture with chalk paint, you can use sandpaper or a damp cloth to remove some of the paint from the edges and corners of the piece. You can also use a wax or glaze to create an aged effect. The key is to experiment with different techniques and find the one that works best for your particular piece of furniture. Overall, using chalk paint to distress furniture is a great way to give new life to an old piece and create a unique and personalized look for your home.
Can you distress furniture with spray paint?
Yes, it is possible to distress furniture with spray paint. Distressing furniture involves giving it an aged and weathered appearance, and spray paint can be a quick and easy way to achieve this effect.
To distress furniture with spray paint, you will need to start with a base coat of paint in a color of your choice. Once the base coat is dry, you can apply a second coat of spray paint in a contrasting color. Using sandpaper or a scraper, you can then remove some of the top layer of paint to reveal the base coat underneath.
It's important to note that the success of distressing with spray paint depends on the type of paint you use and the surface of the furniture. For best results, use a high-quality spray paint specifically designed for furniture, and ensure that the surface is clean and free of any existing coatings or finishes.
Overall, distressing furniture with spray paint can be a fun and creative way to transform a piece and give it a unique, vintage look.
How do you achieve a distressed look with paint?
Achieving a distressed look with paint involves intentionally creating a worn and aged appearance on a surface. The following steps can be taken to achieve this look:
1. Choose the right surface: Select a surface that can withstand sanding and distressing, such as wood or metal.
2. Prepare the surface: Clean the surface with soap and water, and then sand it lightly to create a smooth base for the paint.
3. Apply the base coat: Apply a base coat of paint and allow it to dry completely.
4. Apply the top coat: Apply a contrasting color of paint over the base coat, and then let it dry for a few hours.
5. Distress the surface: Use sandpaper or a scraper to gently remove the top layer of paint in areas where natural wear and tear would occur, such as edges, corners, and raised areas.
6. Seal the surface: Apply a clear coat of sealant to protect the paint and give it a finished look.
By following these steps, you can successfully achieve a distressed look with paint and add character to any surface.
How do you seal furniture after distressing it with paint?
Sealing furniture after distressing it with paint is an important step to ensure that the paint finish is protected and long-lasting. There are several ways to seal distressed furniture, depending on the type of paint used and the desired finish.
One common method is to use a clear wax or furniture paste wax. This is applied with a soft cloth or brush and buffed to a shine. The wax will provide a protective layer and enhance the distressed look of the furniture.
Another option is to use a clear polyurethane sealer. This is applied with a brush or sprayer and allowed to dry completely. Polyurethane provides a strong, durable finish that will protect the furniture from scratches and wear.
For a more vintage or rustic look, you can also use a tinted wax or glaze to add depth and character to the distressed finish. This is applied in the same manner as clear wax but will add a subtle tint to the paint.
In any case, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and allow the sealer to dry completely before using the furniture. This will ensure a beautiful and long-lasting distressed finish.
Should you use a primer before distressing furniture with paint?
Yes, it is recommended to use a primer before distressing furniture with paint. A primer is a preparatory coat that is applied to the surface of the furniture before painting. It helps to create a smooth and even base for the paint, improves adhesion, and enhances the durability of the paint. In addition, using a primer can also prevent the original color of the furniture from bleeding through the new paint, which can affect the overall look of the distressed finish.
When choosing a primer, it is important to select one that is compatible with the type of paint you will be using. For example, if you are using latex paint, you should use a latex primer, and if you are using oil-based paint, you should use an oil-based primer. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the primer is completely dry before applying the paint to avoid any issues with the distressing process.
Overall, using a primer before distressing furniture with paint can help to achieve a more professional and long-lasting finish.
What are the best brands of paint for distressing furniture?
When it comes to distressing furniture, there are a few brands of paint that stand out in terms of quality and effectiveness. One of the most popular brands is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, which is known for its smooth and easy application, as well as its ability to create a beautiful distressed look. Another great brand is General Finishes Milk Paint, which offers a wide range of colors and can be layered to create a multi-dimensional distressed effect. For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, Fusion Mineral Paint is a great choice, as it is made with natural ingredients and offers a durable finish that is resistant to chipping and fading. Other top brands for distressing furniture include Rust-Oleum Chalked Paint, Behr Chalk Decorative Paint, and Valspar Furniture Paint. Ultimately, the best brand of paint for distressing furniture will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so be sure to do your research and choose a product that will give you the desired results.
What colors are best for distressing furniture?
When it comes to distressing furniture, choosing the right colors is crucial. Some colors work better than others when it comes to achieving a vintage or antique look. The most popular colors for distressing furniture are neutrals, such as white, cream, beige, grey, and black. These colors provide a great backdrop for the distressing process, and they can be mixed and combined in various ways to create different effects.
Another popular option is to use muted or pastel shades, such as pale blue, green, pink, or lavender. These colors can give your furniture a soft, romantic feel, and they work particularly well on pieces with intricate details or curves.
It's also worth considering using bold or bright colors, such as red, yellow, or turquoise, for a more playful or whimsical look. However, it's important to use these colors sparingly and with caution, as they can easily overwhelm a room or clash with other decor elements.
Ultimately, the best colors for distressing furniture depend on your personal taste and the style of your home. Experimentation and creativity can lead to some amazing results.
What is the best technique for distressing furniture with paint?
Distressing furniture with paint is a popular technique that can add character and charm to any piece of furniture. The best technique for distressing furniture with paint involves a few simple steps. First, you will need to choose the right paint color and type. Chalk paint is a popular choice for distressing furniture because it dries quickly and can be easily sanded to create a distressed look.
Once you have the right paint, you will want to prep your furniture by cleaning it thoroughly and sanding down any rough spots. Next, apply a base coat of paint and let it dry completely. Once the base coat is dry, you can start distressing the furniture by sanding down the edges and corners of the piece to create a worn and weathered look. Be sure to sand in the areas where natural wear and tear would occur, such as around handles and along the edges of drawers and doors.
Finally, you can add a finishing coat of wax to protect your newly distressed furniture. This will give it a polished and professional look and help to preserve the distressed finish. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can easily distress your furniture with paint and create a unique and timeless piece that will add character to your home for years to come.
What type of paint is best for distressing furniture?
When it comes to distressing furniture, the type of paint you use can make a significant difference in achieving the desired effect. The best types of paint for distressing furniture are usually chalk paint or milk paint.
Chalk paint is a popular choice because it dries quickly and can be easily sanded to create a distressed look. It also adheres well to different surfaces, including wood and metal. Milk paint, on the other hand, creates an authentic, vintage look and can be used to achieve a range of effects, from subtle to heavily distressed.
When selecting a paint for distressing furniture, it's important to consider the surface you're working with and the desired effect you want to achieve. Both chalk paint and milk paint can be used on wood, metal, and other surfaces, but you may need to apply a primer first if the surface is particularly shiny or slick.
In summary, the best types of paint for distressing furniture are chalk paint and milk paint due to their versatility, ease of use, and ability to create the desired effect.
