Learn how to use transparent glaze or glazing liquid on your next furniture makeover to give it a from the factory finish.
Today, I have a makeover in turquoise to show you. We are going to paint and glaze furniture to turn dark furniture into a bright and cheery piece.
The best decorating advice I have ever received was not from a big name designer, magazine, or book, but someone who I found was always right. That someone was my mom. She was passionate about making a house a home and I remember more than once hearing her say – Don’t decorate a room all at once. Let it evolve. You will be so much happier and will enjoy the room for many years to come.
I follow her advice when I decide what I am going to do to each room in my home. There is no rush to get it done – I have lived with hand-me downs my entire married life. I don’t need the newest, best, or greatest – just what makes a room comfortable, light, and pretty enough, will do– no cookie cutter perfection – just a casual, comfy place that has good light to read by, a place to put feet up, watch TV, and a surface to place a drink. Pretty comes last, but I will admit – it is the most fun!
I have been enjoying the fun part the past week helping my family room layer by layer evolve to the prettier stage.
Image: Country Living
A few years before I started blogging, I was planning to do an overhaul of the family room. I had stripped the room of its décor and left only the big pieces of furniture. I painted the walls in a soft white color, then Ed lost his job and I just stopped. The expense was not necessary. The room was comfy and fulfilled our needs just as it was. Wants went out the backdoor. Since then, I have collected many images of how I want the room to look. This room(above) is a bit formal, but I love how all the colors are mixed on top of the white backdrop and unobstructed windows.
Image: BH&G
Another photo of the type of look I am trying to achieve in my family room. Love the pink throw – that is a big – WANT!
Before and After Furniture Makeover
sideboard before
This sideboard is a hand-me down from my mom and dad. I have had it for about 4 years. As you can see it has traditional styling with a country twist, has beautiful lines, and is in perfect shape. Even though it is beautiful piece just as it is, the orange-y brown color doesn’t excite me. Since the layers of the décor in this room have been grounded in white, it is time to add the pops of color to get the room closer to my vision. This piece will be the first big color infusion. It is also the first thing you see as you enter the room and I want it to invite people into the room with a big smile.
sideboard after
It adds an entirely new energy to the room – exactly what I was trying to achieve. All done with the power of paint and some new hardware.
There are still more layers of décor to add, things to change or remove, but the room is starting to have a personality again.
When I put the original pulls back on after painting, they were too dark and the styling was too traditional. I loved the label pulls that were on the library file drawers I recently redid in my studioffice. I went in search to find something similar to use on the sideboard. I found these brass label and drawer pulls in the Van Dykes Restorers catalog after seeing them on Pinterest on a dresser that Destiny from A Place For Us made over. I wanted un-lacquered brass, but they were sold out until July. I didn’t want to wait that long, so I opted for the bright brass and aged them myself to tone the brass down down a bit. Here is the link to the post on how I aged the brass.
how to cover the unfinished back on a piece of furniture
The sideboard was designed to go against a wall. The back is made of a stained plywood board. Since I use it as a sofa table and the back shows a bit, I also needed to address a way to improve how the back looked.
before: In the top photo you can see how the back of the sideboard used to look – dark brown and blah!
during: I found beadboard wallpaper on clearance at Lowes and bought a roll to cover the back. Very easy to do – took less than 20 minutes as the wallpaper was pre-glued and I just needed to wet the back, book it for a few minutes to get the glue released, and then applied it to the back. I needed 3 pieces to cover. I used a mat knife to trim the excess.
after: Pretty Beadboard backing!
Once it was painted the same color as the rest of the sideboard it no longer is an eyesore. Someday – maybe lamp cords will be a thing of the past.
I made Chalk Paint using the Calcium Carbonate Powder recipe to paint the sideboard turquoise. Using this recipe over the non-sanded grout or Plaster of Paris DIY chalk paint recipes has one advantage – it does not harden at all after being mixed. If you are painting larger pieces and need more than a small amount of paint – then I would suggest you use the Calcium Carbonate Power.
To learn more about making and painting with DIY chalk paint check out these posts:
Testing 1..2..3…Versions of Chalk Paint
I made the paint color by mixing two colors of turquoise paint I had leftover from previous projects. Glidden Peacocks Plume and Valspar Seafarer were the colors I mixed 50/50 in a bucket to come up with the color. I used two coats and let the paint dry. I then added a white glaze over it to add more lightness and depth to the color.
I used a coffee can to mix the glaze mixture using:
- 4 parts Valspar Clear Glazing Liquid
- 1 part white paint
- Optional: 1/4 – 1 part water – just a little to thin the mix if needed
Working on one area at a time, I brushed the glaze/paint mixture on very liberally, waited a few minutes and then dragged another (dry brush) through the glaze and wiping the brush in a rag to clean off the glaze, so I could repeat the brushing off process. In the photo above – the glaze was just applied – I have not dragged the dry brush over it yet. Once you do – the white color will lessen. You can drag a dry brush over the area a few times to get the look you are after. I wanted subtle. I repeated the process until all surfaces were covered.
After the glaze was added, brushed off and dry – (wait at least 24 hours) I sanded all the edges with medium grit sandpaper to age the surface.
Many readers ask me how much they should sand a piece before painting. I sand everything before painting it with fine or medium grit sandpaper. A quick going over with the paper attached to a sanding block is all that is needed to rough the surface a bit. It only takes a few minutes, but will help with lasting adhesion. When distressing – it is up to personal choice how much aging you want to add.
I then added one thin layer of Fiddes & Sons paste wax, let it dry to a haze, and then buffed it with a soft cloth to bring out the shine. I like this wax – it costs more than Johnson’s, but goes on like a dream and does not smell as much. Johnson’s smells pretty intense, especially if you can’t work outside.
If you look closely at the doors, you can see the white brush strokes of the glazing coat that was left on. Any glaze or colored wax will add color depth to the painted finish. You can do the same thing with Liming or a white wax over a clear wax coat.
The new label holder drawer pulls add character and make the sideboard look more like a one-of-a-kind piece.
How to Make Labels for the Drawer Pulls
Using my word processor, I printed out the names I wanted for each label. I traced around the rectangular part of the pull to figure out the size label I would need. I set the font to Engravers MT -size to 22 pts. I printed out the names for each on white card stock.
I cut a piece of acetate from the top lid of a box of notecards to act as clear protective covers for each label. Then placed both into the drawer pull.
a few details…
When painting furniture with doors, I sometimes don’t paint the inside of the doors. If it was summer and I took this to my garage to paint, I would have removed the doors and painted both sides. Since I had to paint it in my family room, I decided to tape around the lip on the back and just paint around the edges. When the painters tape was removed, the insides of the doors, looked nice and neat with the outer edges painted only.
I bought the glass knobs for the doors at Lowes. They had silver centers that I spray painted gold using Rustoleum Metallic Gold spray paint so they would match the drawer pulls.
The new lampshades were a “find” on a recent trip to Target. They are from the new Threshold line. There were just two of them sitting all by themselves on the shelf. They had my name on them, so I had to bring them home :)
Paint is truly a DIY decorator’s best friend. It is amazing how it can transform a space so quickly and affordably. It literally can change a room in only a few hours. Now I gotta tackle painting my “mollifier” in the room. More to come on that soon.
To see more painted furniture projects head on over to my Furniture Makeover Project Gallery
**Here is where my favorite turquoise piece lives in the Lake House!
April says
Diane, I found your awesome blog while googling “chalk paint” and why I should use that instead of other paints. Your tutorials are stunning and super clear! Love all the photos. You’re helping me a lot with a furniture project that I’m preparing for.
Quick question, can I do a metallic paint in chalk paint version? I’m looking to repaint my table top, and I think I want gold tones!
I’m having such a good time browsing your colorful posts and reading about how you met Ed. SO unique! Thanks for your help, Diane!
Tee says
Hello, your Blog is fast becoming my favourite!!
Did you gold rub ‘n’ buff the distressed edges of the drawers etc of this cupboard?
Keep up the creativity!
Diana S says
WOW just what I was searching for. I just painted my bed room with a nice yellow and have dark wood cabinets.
Thanks
Diana S says
I thank you for all the wealth of DIY creative ideas. Nice post.
deep says
hindi status
desi status says
awesome article
Catherine says
Hi – love the turquoise sideboard. I am doing something similar but am trying a black wax over the turquoise. I have never used darker wax before. Any tips? I saw a couple pieces that looked drybrushed with black and I thought i would try the wax.
Diane Henkler says
Hi Catherine –
I have two tips that will help you get the best look when working with dark wax.
1. First, use clear wax on the piece. This gives you a clear layer on which to manipulate the dark wax exactly where you want it to go. When you apply dark wax right to the painted finish, it can get into grooves that you don’t want it to be in.
2. If you don’t like the look of dark wax in any area it can easily be removed by applying and rubbing clear wax over it.
If you want a dry brush look, you may be better off using dark antiquing glaze and a cheap bristle paint brush to achieve the effect. When using dark glaze, sip the tip of a stiff cheap brush into the glaze and then wipe it over the piece in long strokes. Once dry use clear wax or poly over it.
Here is a post where I show how I used dark antiquing glaze: https://inmyownstyle.com/2012/08/how-to-make-and-paint-with-diy-chalk-paint.html
I have not used dark wax too many times, but I did do a post showing how I used it on a mirror. https://inmyownstyle.com/2014/11/mirror-makeover.html
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Sasa says
Chest sky blue looks great.
twitter.com says
WOW just what I was searching for. Came here by searching for locksmith
Liz says
Were did you get the label drawer pulls?
Diane Henkler says
Hi Liz, There is a link in the post.I will have to make it stand out more on the post. :-) Here is the link: ww.vandykes.com/product.aspx?p=205245&green=C752CE9E-C8D7-5791-079D-0F0D5CD1CFE3
Tammy says
Love it! It is so beautiful! I have a wallpaper backsplash so I love the back of your piece. Just wondering, instead of the post-glaze wax, would polycrilic work out? Would I need to sand between glaze and polycrilic? Did you sand between any of the steps? I’ve heard that using wax means stripping the paint would be required before reprinting so I want to avoid wax.
Nancy says
I have used plaster Paris before to make my own chalk paint and it was fine. Yesterday went to mix up
some and what a disaster got very grainy. When I mixed the pp with water is was very smooth then added the paint was a little thick so added a few drops of water and everything went down hill .. HELP
Diane Henkler says
Hi Nancy – Did you use the same paint that you used the first time you made chalk paint or use another paint brand or sheen?
Plaster of Paris tends to thicken with some paints that already have a primer in them or an acrylic additive. When I use PoP, I make sure I am using standard run of the mill latex paint that has no primer in it. These formulas are getting harder to find as paint companies are making more and more of their paint lines “paint + primer” in one formulas. Some don’t even mention it on the label.
I use Calcium Carbonate Powder now to make all my chalk paint since it mixes in fine with all the paint formulas I have used and I have tried many. I know True Value Easy Care has a latex that is just paint as well as most brands inexpensive “contractor paint” has no primer. It using PoP you may want to try one of these.
furniture painting says
that’s certainly not a typical or standard color choice but it looks great! i could see it in a baby girl’s room
prfssr says
Very nice piece. Thanks for the detailed transformation description.
I just picked up a sideboard today at the local thrift shop and found your piece when I was looking for ideas.
I am still not sure what it will become but I am ready to get moving. Interestingly, my piece is finished on all 4 sides, so no wallpaper required.
David says
Hello Diane. I love the dresser. It looks awesome. I can not get the Glidden Peacocks Plume and the Valspar Seafarer. Are they old names. I want to do my Bedroom set just like you did the dresser. Can you advise If the names are current or are they different brands. Thank you for your time. David
Diane Henkler says
Hi David – Here are the numbers for both paints. If you take them to the paint store, they should be able to get the color from these numbers:
Seafarer: 5007-10A Valspar
Peacock’s Plume: Specify #16BG 24/357 Order #A1249
Any paint store nowadays can make colors if they have the numbers. Home Depot should have all the old numbers and colors in their books behind the counter. The same for Lowes and Valspar.
Alma says
Gorgeous work, gorgeous color.
Trish says
When making my own chalk paint or adding paint to a glaze, what sheen do I use. Flat, Satin, Semi-gloss ???
Diane Henkler says
Hi Trish – I use satin or flat paint, but it really does not matter. Once you add the Calcium Carbonate Powder, the paint will go flat. For glaze – I usually use satin, but again – it really does not matter as long as it is not high gloss paint.
Arlette says
Love your pieces an fall the information. I have to look now further! Thank you for sharing.
Bethany says
I want to glaze a dresser after painting it a similar turquoise color. It’s currently painted white, and I’ve sanded it to make it mostly smooth (I want it to look a little distressed). Do you recommend I paint it a dark brown color underneath so that when I’m finished painting/glazing it, it will have the dark edges?
Diane Henkler says
Hi Bethany – If you paint the dresser brown over the white, when you sand the white is going to show as a layer. If you don’t want that to happen, I would strip the areas you want to distress first. Then paint. Take a photo on your phone so you remember where the stripped areas are when it comes time to distress. Walmart sells CitraStrip in spray can. It is the best – no smell and not as messy.
Danielle says
This is perfect! Exactly the tutorial I was looking for. I’m running into a problem with finding the Valspar clear glazing liquid…Home Depot suggested using parks super glaze which is in a box. I’m nervous about it because I don’t think it’s the same thing and I’ve never done this before and I’m terrified of screwing it up lol. Any suggestions on what else I could use?
Diane Henkler says
Hi Danielle – The super glaze in the box is not the same thing. It is a clear protective poly like glaze finish. Good thing you didn’t use it. You can find glaze at the craft store or any hardware store. True Value has one called Simply Glaze. Craft paint brands all have glaze in jars and bottles. Home Depot sells Behr and they call it Faux Glaze. It come in a browny gold can. Tell the person behind the counter that you want glaze to create a faux finish. They seem to understand this term more.
Danielle says
Thank you! Thank you! Such a speedy response lol…I will be on my way to Home Depot here soon!
folia one way vision says
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You should continue your writing. I am sure, you have a great readers’ base already!
Rebekah says
Hello! I am intrigued by your glaze recipe! What is “Valspar Clear Glazing Liquid” ? Thanks!
Rebekah
Diane Henkler says
I buy it at Lowes. It is inexpensive. Check out this post to see a photo of it: https://inmyownstyle.com/2012/08/how-to-make-and-paint-with-diy-chalk-paint.html
Brenda says
I don’t seem to find how you trimmed the gold? I know this should be obvious but can you give the details? Did you add the trim before or after your sanded? What brand of paint?
Thanks.
Diane Henkler says
Hi Brenda –
Are you asking how I toned down the gold pulls? Here is the link to the post on how to age brass: https://inmyownstyle.com/2013/03/how-to-age-brass-in-less-than-5-minutes.html
Maddey says
Love it! I wish it would follow me home…
carol says
Hi Diane
Did you see the question that I posted before the apology? :-)
Sorry to bother you if you are still addressing this!
Thanks
carol says
Sorry, I meant Diane!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Carol – No worries XO I am used to being called by another name. My identical twin sisters name is Carol. I answer to it all the time :)
carol says
Hi Karen
I have just finished chalk painting my dining room table and chairs. I have also glazed them. I ordered some Fiddes wax in clear. My questions:
how do you apply the wax? Do you use a stencil type brush(as I have seen) or a rag. Also, how long do you let it dry(to a haze) before you buff it out??
Thanks so much for your help!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Carol –
I apply the wax with old lint free T-shirts. I don’t use brushes. I just dip a section of the rag into the wax and then rub it on the surface in a circular motion. Add more wax as needed to cover the surface. A thin layer is all that is needed. Use another old lint free T-shirt to buff. Just apply pressure in circular motions on the surface until you see a sheen come up. I usually repeat the process to get a higher sheen. The more you buff the more shine. The key is only adding the wax in thin layers. It takes some muscle, but when you see the sheen come up, you will smile at how nice it makes the painted finish look. Fiddes and Sons can be buffed right after you apply it. No haze will develop. With Johnsons Paste Wax – a haze will develop. I wait at least a day before I wax, this allows the paint to fully dry.
Karen says
LOVE LOVE LOVE!!! We just painted our kitchen a nice yellow and have dark wood cabinets from when the house was built in 1979. This color and style is perfect!! I have just discovered your site and I am so glad I did. For whatever reason I have a small inhibition about decorating, it’s like I have an afraid to try any of my ideas syndrome. I over think it until I think myself right out of doing it. Thank you for your post and I am excited to check out the rest of your work:) You inspire me to make my home more ME:)
Kaylene says
Hi Diane, I just found your website and I have a question. I just painted my dining table with DIY chalk paint (really light gray, almost off white). I’ve heard mixed reviews on how I should proceed, because I love the shabby chic look. I have not yet distressed it and have just been trying to read up on different reviews. I was wondering could I distress and then mix glaze like you have but with dark paint instead of white seeing as how I already have a light base color and then wax it to seal it? I would really hate to have to redo, so just trying to explore options on what may look best. My vision is to have a white base, and antiquing glaze effect over top to slightly darken it but just slightly and then seal it with wax.
I apologize for this post being long, but I’ve mostly seen people chalk paint, wax, glaze and nothing after glaze to seal it. Being that this will be my kitchen table and I will have to clean it up I would like the method that will work best in the long run. Please help and thank you in advance.
Kaylene
Diane Henkler says
Hi Kaylene –
There are two ways you can go about giving the white base an antiqued look. 1. Go over the finish with clear wax first. Buff it and then add a layer of dark wax. Laying clear wax on the surface first allows you to move the dark wax where you want it. If you just use dark wax right over the chalk paint, you won’t be able to move it around and it may end up looking uneven.
2. Use antiquing glaze. Once the chalk paint is dry, apply the dark glaze over the surface in circular motions. Have a second rag ready to wipe it off, leaving the amount of darkness you desire. If you add too much, quickly remove it with a wet cloth and start over. Once you have all the glaze on, let it dry. Apply clear wax over to protect and bring out the patina. If you want a more rustic looking piece – sand to distress after the clear wax protection coat. If you want a more polished finish, sand to distress before you add the clear wax to protect the finish.
Carolyn's funky furniture says
Diane, your piece is beautiful! I love the color you chose and the white glaze really added depth and softness. I paint funky bright colored furniture most of the time, but I am starting to use more chalk paint. It is so much easier than sanding and priming. Thanks for posting such a great step by step tutorial! Carolyn
Judith Vee says
I chose a very white paint (chalk) but I hate it . I wanted a creme white & now that it’s done ( hubby helped me) he does not want us to re-do :( can I simply go over the waxed pieces with creme? Or do I have to sand? Or is there an easier way? Or better way ?
Love your style! Judy
Diane Henkler says
Thanks Judith –
It is said that chalk paint can go over everything – even wax. I like to always be on the safe side though. I would run 100 grit sandpaper over the surface to remove some of the wax. Clean it well and then you can repaint with chalk paint. Let it cure a few days before waxing.
Brenda from Texas says
Found your blog via Pinterest and I am obsessed with this DIY chalk paint! Hoping to start on my own project soon, thank you for your posts and how – to’s! Very helpful! xo
P.B. says
Thank you for the time you have taken to write all the how tos. Your piece is so very beautiful and one-of-a-kind! Happy painting for 2014!
Paige Wells says
Diane, I have a question. I finished my desk. I loved the yellow chalk paint and then did the glaze. I tested an area 4:1 glaze to paint and thought it was too white so I did 5:1. I dragged as much off as I could but it is way too white. I lost all my bright yellow. I wanted it the same depth as your turquoise. (Subtle Glaze.)
Would it work to lightly sand the glaze and then add yellow paint to the clear glazing liquid and glaze on top of glaze? I hate it so light. At certain times of day, it looks white or at best a baby nursury. Room is hot pink and green. I was trying to add a yellow to pop like your turq piece. THANKS!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Paige – Every application can yield different results when you are painting with layers of paints, stains, waxes, and or glazes. I usually do a test on a scrap piece of wood to make sure what I am adding is what I want. All is not lost with your desk. In fact – some of my dissapointments have tuned into favorites with a little bit of tweaking. To answer your question – yes you can add the yellow paint to the glaze and go over the desk to bring out the yellow more. Test it on a small area first to see if you need to add more or less paint to get the look you want – then proceed. It is also Ok to add a few layers – it will add patina.
Janelle says
LOVE the beautiful look you made from this project! I have a furniture piece I would like to redo (first time for me), and plan to use the chalk paint just like you did with the turquoise sideboard. However, in addition, can I paint a latex over parts of the chalk paint, before waxing (i.e. – would latex stick to chalk paint without some other process beforehand, like priming)? I would like to add a pattern to the piece in latex…unless you recommend using all chalk paint for the piece…Thank you in advance for your help!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Janelle – I have never painted over chalk paint with a design painted in plain latex, but I think that using plain latex or craft paint over chalk paint will adhere fine since the chalk paint finish is very porous. The only problem that may happen is if using wax to protect the finished piece and not poly, the wax may take differently to the two paint finishes, I would use flat latex and then this should not be a problem. If you have gathered all of your supplies, do a test on a scrap piece of wood to determine if the wax goes over both paints evenly.
Janelle says
Thank you, Diane! I appreciate your advice, and will do what you suggested. Keep up the beautiful painting!
Karen says
I completely agree with letting a room evolve. We have been in our current home for 10 years and I have been letting my living room evolve for a long time. It is finally coming together, but it took 10 years for me to figure that out. Love the sideboard, and I really love the library pulls. What a fun switch up!
azm says
Thanks very helpful. I have too just unemployed. Have taken up crafting and futniture painting to keep me busy.
Your tips have been very helpful. Pictures very informative visually. Great to see the looks. Thanks very much. AZM
Diane Henkler says
I hope your unemployment does not last too long. Being creative is the best way to stay positive. Who knows, you may be able to sell some of your pieces and create a business out of it. Best of luck with your projects.
Kathy Nielsen says
Hi Diane, I just love this website. I go to you almost daily with questions and problems. AND you answer right away! Anyhoo….I have a round table painted with latex paint (black) and I painted white roman numerals on it (so it is a clock face)with latex paint and it looks to-o-o- black and stark white. How can I subdue the starkness of the table and give it a more artistic shabbiness to it? Thanking you in advance..I remain dumfounded!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Kathy – the easiest thing to do would be to distress the finish and then put a layer of white glaze, lining wax, or clear soft wax over it.
Put medium grit sandpaper on a sanding block. Sand in a horizontal direction only across the table to distress the face of the clock. It will look better than sanding in all directions. Also distress a little around the edges of the table. Distress until you like the look. To further soften the look you can mix clear glazing liquid with white paint. 90% glazing liquid to 10% paint. It will be a transparent white stain to go over the surface. You brush it on and let it dry. You could also try liming wax to go over the surface to soften the stark look. Clear soft paste wax would protect it. I would experiment on a few scrap piece of wood to figure out the best way to get the look you are trying to achieve.
Jennifer says
The beadboard wallpaper idea is sheer genius! I had recently purchase a buffet to use backed up to the sofa (it’s a great room, so the dining table is right there too – but no wall to put a buffet.) I had been contemplating what to do about that couple of inches that you could see of ugly backer board when I stumbled across your Fall Home Tour, which led me to click away on your blog and voila! The perfect solution! The only sad thing is I have to wait 24 hours to paint! Thanks for being brilliant :-)
Diane C. says
Hi Diane, thank you for a most informative, easy to understand website!
I have a breakfast table that has a white wash finish on the legs with a honey oak finish on the top. I would like to paint the honey oak top to black. I would like to have it look soft, not too shiny. Kind of the sheen that your piece above has. Should I use chalk paint and wax (or poly)? And if so, should I use calcium carbonate? If I use chalk paint, do I need to sand or prime beforehand?
Or should I go the traditional route with a satin acrylic latex paint? Thanks!!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Diane –
Since I have discovered chalk paint, I use it on all the furniture I make over now – except on pieces I spray paint. You can’t go wrong going the traditional route of sanding, priming, latex, and poly, but I think if you use chalk paint, your table finish will have much more depth and character. I like using calcium carbonate powder because it creates the smoothest mixture. I sometimes add more of the powder (1-2 more tablespoons)to my mixes than called for just to make sure they have great adhesion – especially for a table top. I always sand the surface no matter what type of paint I am using. You do not have to prime if using chalk paint. If using chalk paint – know that is will take up to 30 days to cure. You can use it during that time, but full curing does take time so be gentle on your piece the first few weeks after painting.
Jenny says
Hi there! thanks for posting this. I have a SUPER NOOBIE question. Why would you want to use chalk paint over a regular latex paint? is that what you recommend for distressing or you also use it for other things that you would paint, such as kitchen cabinets….thank you in advance!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Jenny – Chalk paint differs from latex in the finished look of the piece. It is all about preference. I think the wax coat is what makes it look beautiful.It adds depth and patina and makes the piece look like a quality piece, not just a piece of furniture that was painted. It distresses beautifully. Regular latex sometimes gets a rubbery sticky feel to the finished surface, chalk paint does not. When you try to distress latex, the paint rolls off in shreds. With chalk paint, the paint comes off smoothly. I did not use it to paint my kitchen cabinets, but you can. You can use it to paint anything, but it does need to be waxed or polyed to protect it unless you want a very flat aged look. I think it is the best way to paint furniture.
ann says
Thank you for sharing this gorgeous re-do – I’ve taken away several ideas! Just wanted to also THANK YOU for showing the beauty of gold hardware. I still love my gold/brass hardware, frames, doorknobs, etc. and was starting to feel like I’m the only one not ‘oil rubbed bronz-ing’ everything. This piece is perfect with the gold…
Liz says
Hi Diane,
You have lovely taste and a great talent. I have a pretty large, built-in Cushman cabinet with multiple inset doors and drawers, and I want to paint it (the original stain just sucks all the light out of the room). I feel convinced by your posts that chalk paint with calcium carbonate is the way to go based on the size of the project. My questions are:
1. With chalk paint, do I still need to sand the piece first?
2. Do I need primer?
3. I’m concerned about multiple coats of primer and paint leading to the inset doors/drawers no longer fitting- anything I can do to mitigate that problem?
Thank you so much in advance!
Diane Henkler says
HI Liz –
1. You do need to sand.
2. No primer is necessary.
3. Use light thin coats – 2 should cover it
You can also add a few more tablespoons of Calcium Carbonate to the mix. It will still be very smooth. I think it helps with the adhesion when there is a bit more than the recipe calls for.
erin says
why did you wax it rather than seal with a poly?
Diane Henkler says
Hi Erin –
It is all about personal preference. I added the wax to add a subtle layer of protection and a bit of patina since I knew the dresser was going to be moved around quite a bit. I usually don’t use poly on furniture, only on table tops for an added layer of protection. Poly to me just looks “too sealed” – wax adds depth and patina. I like the finished look better. On chalk painted pieces wax looks amazing and brings out the color of the paint. On latex painted pieces it doesn’t add quite the same quality since it does not sink into the paint as much, but I still like the way it looks after it is buffed better than poly.
Diana says
Hi Diane,
I am totally in love with the color of this dresser. I am redoing a spare bedroom to become the “grandkid’s” room and would love to paint an old dresser I have with this color. I am totally overwhelmed at all the choices of turquoise and aqua colors. Would you please tell me the color and brand. I would be forever grateful. BTW, I just painted a small nightstand using your calcium carbonate recipe and it turned out great. Thanks so much!
Diana
Diane Henkler says
Hi Diana – I made the paint color by mixing two colors of turquoise paint I had leftover from previous projects. The two paints were Glidden Peacocks Plume and Valspar Seafarer. I mixed them 50/50 in a bucket. I also added a watered down mix of white glaze to wash over the finish to add some depth to the color.
Manda Wolf says
That is awesome. I love the pulls. The paint color and technique are amazing and really add that special touch. It is amazing what some elbow grease can do to a piece of furniture.
gena says
My husband and I decided to revive a dresser that was his great grandmother’s for our (soon-to-be-here) daughter’s nursery. We followed your instructions for this sideboard and it turned out fantastic! I’ll admit, I was skeptical because we made our own chalk paint from the calcium carbonate (and because I’ve never done anything like this before) but the results are fantastic! Thank you so much for the insight, that wax works wonders!
Carolyn O'Connor says
Diane, I just found your website and wow…what a great job you do on your tutorial! I love the color of your piece and the wallpaper back…what an ingenious idea! I do funky painted furniture but have recently done a few pieces with chalk paint, and I think I love it! I am so impressed with your instructions and the time you take to answer everyone’s questions. You are a neat gal. You will have to check out my blog spot too and tell me what you think. I am having fun combining the chalk paint with accents of acrylic detail. http://www.carolynsfunkyfurniture.blogspot.com Again, I love your piece~ I have a dining room set with a huge hutch that is dark stained pine just begging for a bright face-lift like this. Thanks for the inspiration.
Joyelle Vollero says
Your pieces and talent are amazing! I love your detailed instructions. I’ve been trying to restore an old dresser and having a tough time getting a look I like. I’ve made chalk paint in a turquoise color, as well as cream and tried so many different things– painting one over the other, wiping it off, painting the other over the other, dry brushing, and today I made 5 different glazes to put over the cream and then over the turquoise and still it’s dreadful! I think I’ve settled on a solution (chalk paint in turquoise the whole piece and then glaze it-color TBD). This is my question….the chalk paint has a lot of brush strokes in it. Yours looks so smooth. Is there a special brush I really need to invest in? Thank you for any help you can provide. Sincerely, joyelle
Diane Henkler says
Hi Joyelle –
I always use Purdy brushes – they are the best! They are more expensive, but will last for years if you take care of them. I like the angled ones.I have one in just about every size. Another reason you might be seeing a lot of brush strokes could be that your paint is too thick. Try adding a bit more water to the paint mixture. Of all the the DIY recipes – Calcium Carbonate powder comes out the smoothest, followed by Plaster of Paris and then the Non-sanded grout. The attempts you wrote about probably look fine – we are usually our worst critics.
Rebecca says
This transformation is absolutely flawless and beautiful… Thanks for sharing. :)
Suzie says
BEAUTIFUL!!! I have a sideboard that I am painting turquoise right now… I’m going to finish with the glaze like you did… I love it!!!
Thank you for sharing!
peggy says
I am so inspired! Love the glaze.. I am going to try this!
Angie says
All I can say is WOW! This is a beatiful piece – I have seen beadboard wallpaper before on other projects but you just reminded me of how beautiful it finishes off a piece of furniture. Thanks for the inspiration!
TRINA says
Hi there!! love your blog! I have a question.. I am repainting my vanity and I have done this effect before but I am not going to lie I am really rough on it.. putting drinks on it my hair stuff.. is there a protection glaze or something that will make it a little more HEAVY DUTY ?? :)
Diane Henkler says
Hi Trina – The best thing to do would be to use a Polyurethane over the paint and glaze once it is cured. Minwax makes a good non-yellowing water-based one called Polycrylic. It comes in a satin finish. 2 to 3 light coats – letting each one dry before applying the next will give you the protection you need. As far as putting wet drinks down – no wood or painted surface likes wet stuff. I would keep a pretty coaster on your vanity to keep the finish nice.
Michele says
Hello! This piece is just beautiful–it’s my favorite color. I adore your style. I found you when trying to figure out how to distress a chifforobe I inherited from my uncle. I think this will work great!
I do have a question, though–my husband and I were going to lime the floor of the indoor front porch in our 100-year-old farmhouse, but after reading about chalk paint on your site, I think it sounds much safer and more likely to give me the results I want. Do you think it’ll hold up to all that foot traffic, though? And it’s an enclosed space, but it’s not especially well insulated, so it does suffer from some temperature variation. Should I do anything special to increase the longevity of the paint job? Good idea for an area like that?
Thanks so much!
Diane Henkler says
Hi Michele- I would not use chalk paint on an outdoor floor. I would only use porch and floor paint. With outdoor conditions and foot traffic, it has the durability needed. If you we’re going to lime bare wood that would work well,too. Add a few light coats of polyurethane over it. Either way- prepping it right is essential. Clean it well and rinse well. Let it dry well. Before painting make sure the floor is dry. Then use light coats of paint or poly, Let each coat dry before applying the next.
Kerri says
Hi!
I am new to your blog and found it while doing research on DIY chalk paint. I have painted lots of furniture, I have used Flat latex and Milk Paint, Milk paint has always been my favorite, but I wanted to try Chalk paint. I don’t have a stockist around me and just CAN NOT pay $41 for a quart of paint plus $10 shipping online.
So, I got a “new” bed – got my calcium carbonate powder, went to lowes, and bought a gallon of Flat latex paint.
Mixed it, painted one coat, and am now waiting for my second coat to dry.
I painted a scrap piece of molding to try two different dark waxes I bought, (brand is Briwax – as from research it is one of the better ones and I could find it locally)
So I painted my sample board about 10pm last night, today around 3pm I went out to test my waxes, I first applied the clear, but as I rubbed it on (with a cloth) some of the paint seemed to “dissolve” and “move”
So why am I going on like this??? Well, here is my question, what sheen of paint do you use to make your chalk paint? Like I said I bought Flat, that seemed the most logical, but maybe that is a poor choice??? Did I not wait long enough?
Have you experienced a problem with the wax causing the paint to shift?
I did buy the Highest quality paint in the valspar line, what brand do you use? Have you noticed any one brand that works better?
I have many other pieces I will be painting, and I love the look the chalk paint makes so I would really like to keep going with it, but want to make sure I am on the right path.
Any help is GREATLY appreciated!!!
Oh, and LOVE your buffet! I would never have thought of the wallpaper thing, I would have replaced with actual breadboard, the wallpaper is brilliant! Cheaper and quicker!
Thank!
Kerri
Diane Henkler says
Hi Kerri – I have never had the paint move on any of the pieces I have done. A while back another reader experienced the same problem. I don’t think it is the paint, as I have used all finishes and brands. I probably use more satin or semi-gloss – only because that is what I have leftover from previous painting projects. Once you add the Calcium Carbonate – it will flatten the sheen.
The only problem I have run into is when using Non-sanded grout – the mixture can harden quickly. I only make it in small batches when I use that to make chalk paint.
I have never used Briwax – only Johnson’s and Fiddes & Sons. The brand of wax could have something to do with it, but I am not sure. I usually wait a day or two before I wax. You may want to wait longer. Another reason – the mixture was too thin or did not have enough of the Calcium Carbonate in it, perhaps try making it a bit thicker, but still easy to spread and let it sit for at least 24 hours before distressing/waxing.
I think if you try a different wax and/or wait for the paint to dry longer – you will have success. Let me know.
cyndy says
Wow, wow, wow! Jaw on the floor! Amazing job Diane! I am beyond inspired. Thanks so much for walking us through everything and I can’t wait to give this a try!
sideboards says
Awesome creativity. I love the pics
Tricia @ SimplicityInTheSouth says
I love everything about your dresser…the hardware, the beadboard wallpaper back (genius) and especially the color! Your living room looks like such a happy place. Your mom sounds like a smart woman. :)
Char @ HisandHerRestoration says
Love this furniture makeover…but what i love most is the drawer pulls and that you have them labeled in a stylish way! I have lots of storage in my house in the way of dresser’s, buffet’s, ect…but i never remember what i put where. These are awesome!
From your latest reader…found via Snap 2013.
Char @HisandHerRestoration.blogspot.com
Melissa says
Fabulous job! I love the idea of the wall paper on the back! I love this piece! And I will take your Mom’s advice to let a room evolve! Love your blog! Thanks for sharing your awesomeness!
Melissa
Emilia says
I said it before, but will say it one more time. I love that your blog is so REAL. I love all personal touches from your family life, even if it’s not always so bright. We all have these days, weeks or even months, when our dream makeovers are sitting quietly in our mind, waiting for better times. I am glad to hear that your better time arrived, and you can start your dream makeover. Wish you all the best.
Tracy O says
I have to say thank you a million times for this post. I have recently embraced the decorating over time mantra, not only for lack of funds to do a room at once but also because I would get frustrated that I couldn’t find exactly what I wanted…now I decorate as I find (and as money allows).
I am ready to re-finish a few pieces in my dining room that I recently liberated from its ugly early 80s wall paper and painted a creamy off white/tanish color. I have been searching for the right blue and right technique for my sideboard (that I inherited from my mom). I have considered ASCP and other techniques but nothing really has said aha! to me until your method…I love the end result and can’t wait to start…now to decide if I want to do 2 pieces in the same color or one in blue and one in grey…
Miss Charming says
Absolutely gorgeous! I love the blue with the gold accents–just perfect. (And thanks for sharing your trick on finishing the back of the piece, too.) Lovely job, Diane!
elizabeth says
i LOVE LOVE LOVE this makeover, and the lampshades so fuN!
Krista @thehappyhousie.com says
I LOVE THIS!! It looks so incredible! You did an amazing job!
We have almost the same sideboard that we also redid (using homemade chalkpaint) in almost the same color of turquoise. Only difference is that we removed the doors and turned it into a media cabinet. I think it will be making an appearance in our living room very soon (maybe even tomorrow??). I am so inspired now that I see yours!
Love the pulls too – they are so fabulous, and you are right, they make it such a special and unique piece. Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful work!
Krista @thehappyhousie
tara says
over from a handmade home..ashley gave a shout out on this post!
that dresser is amazing and those lampshades make me drool. :)
I’m looking forward to perusing your blog for awhile on this dreary, rainy saturday.
Deb Hrabik says
So glad I found your blog!
Great color blue. Loved my visit here,
[email protected]
antiquechase says
this post has it all. Loved it. Newest follower!! Marcy
Lori says
I totally love the sideboard re do. One thing I love (other than the great color, cool plates, and great shades) is the placement of it! I wish more people would embrace putting a sofa/loveseat in a ‘floating’ space and anchor it with a sideboard or sofa table. I have a few friends I’d like to send this link over to and show them how great it can look ;)
Wende says
I just discovered your blog! Wow! I love your sideboard and your comments about decorating. I like pulling things together over time rather than doing it all at once. I feel it gives a room a more personal, authentic look. I will be reading more of your blog. You have quite a talent for painting as well as writing!
Avey says
This is my favorite of your makeovers! Your description of the process and the photos are amazing! Thank you for sharing your talents, and a job very well done!!!
Elizabeth H says
How beautiful that piece of furniture is. You are so talented and you explain so well. New blog for me to visit and I love it!
Marilyn says
I love it, Diane! Another great job.
Therese says
I’m in love with the amazing glazed blue on your buffet and the dynamite drawer pulls you chose -Wow! what style you have.
Thanks for sharing like you do. I always enjoy reading your posts.
Cheers to you and yours!
Elle says
Great instructions on how to redo the sideboard. I have a piece I have been wanting to do like this. Guess it is time to get started! Thanks
Elle
Denise says
Gorgeous! You are amazing Diane. That beadboard wall paper on the back of the chest is pure genius! You are one talented, creative lady. I would love to see you have your own show on HGTV…then your own magazine…then your own “DH” line at Target………then Obama appoints you “Secretary of the Amazing Shoestring Budget DIY”!
LOL…you’ve gotta dream BIG!
The Single Nester says
Just delightful! Thanks for the instructions!
Erin {House of Turquoise} says
Love, love, love, love, LOVE!!! You did an amazing job! Looks fantastic with the lampshades too….how lucky they had 2 left just for you!
Ce El says
Diane,
I’m new to your blog and love your writing. Thanks so much for the paint recipes. I can’t wait to try this out; your instructions are perfect. Your blue sideboard is excellent.
You are saving me a lot of money on paint, when I already have left over latex wall and trim paint. I bought pricey name-brand chalk paint and attended a fun demo, but from now on I’m going to create my own, thanks to you.
Sincerely, Ceel
Vicki V says
Another EXCEPTIONAL project, Diane. Your blog is absolutely the best out there because you march to your own drummer and do what YOU love! Perfect in every way!
nest of posies says
oh Diane – this is gorgeous!!!! you did an incredible job. love the added tongue & groove to the back! so clever!
Diane Scott says
Diane, I love the way you transform pieces of furniture with paint. I have lots of dark stained pieces and dream of painting them. As soon as I get my husband on board with the “painting of stained furniture” idea I’m going to do it! Love the sideboard. Wish I could show you mine and ask your opinion :)
Jacqueline Regueira says
Diane, this piece is beautiful! Congratulations! You did a fantastic job, the color, the glaze and the hardware! Love it thanks for all the tips too!
Kraig says
Beautiful work on the sofa table. I loved the beadboard wallpaper idea. I also enjoyed your layering of colors. Very homey!
ashley @ the handmade home says
absolutely gorgeous. I LOVE IT.
Kathy says
Oh Diane, this piece is absolutely beautiful! I had to do a double take because I have a very similar sideboard that I refinished last Summer with ASCP in Duck Egg. Our home is a little more rustic, so I distressed it a bit more than you did and my oldest Grandaughter, age 7, told me it looked beat up and dirty LOL!
I noticed the beautiful pink, green, orange and blue storage boxes in the background! Love all the bright colors you are using! And the bead board wallpaper on the back of the piece is perfection!
Nancy Carr says
Beautiful! Love this. Thank you for sharing.
Margaret says
Really love the color of this piece. It’s really a nice addition to the white and the new lampshades.
Tina says
So pretty! I love your style! I have a solid oak china hutch with a natural golden finish that I would like to repaint in this manner, but I plan to use the piece on my covered patio outside. Do you have any advice for using this painting technique for outdoor furniture? The piece will not be directly exposed to the elements (no direct sun or rain), but it will definitely get damp during rainy weather and will have extremes of temperature in my north Texas climate (from the occasional 20 degrees F in winter to extended periods of 100 F in the summer).
Any advice as to how to achieve this look for outside?
Diane Henkler says
Hi Tina –
The key factor when painting outdoor wood furniture is: 1. Don’t paint when it is hot out as the paint will dry too fast and not adhere properly Make sure it is not too humid either. 2. Make sure you seal the wood first so no moisture can get in that would expand the wood and ruin your paint job. You can do this with Zinseer Clear shellac if you want to distress(no white primer color showing through distressed areas). If you are not going to distress the piece – no wood showing through – use a primer like Kilz Original or BIN Shellac based primer. If you want to age the piece by distressing you will be exposing the wood – that will allow moisture in and could make the wood expand and ruin your paint job. You would need to seal the finished piece with a clear top coat of exterior non-yellowing polyurethane.
Rough up the piece first with sandpaper. Roll on two light coats of primer letting each one dry before applying the next. More light coats are better than heavy coats. Make sure all the wood is covered. To help with adhesion, I would run medium grit sandpaper lightly over the primed surface and clean the grit off. Now the wood is sealed and ready for paint, the moisture in the air and temp differences should not effect it. Buying a good quality of exterior paint will help, but I have read that chalk paint holds up well outside, it is just the wax that doesn’t. If you want to use water based paint- use exterior acrylic enamel paint in a flat finish – 2 coats – let each coat dry before applying the second. As far as the glazing coat, I have never used it outside, but if it is sealed properly with poly, it should hold up fine. After glazing – I would coat the entire piece with a good exterior non-yellowing primer.
Hope this helps.
Vanessa says
I love how this turned out Diane! Beautiful.
Jerri C. TN says
Update: I ordered the pulls last night & they are on backorder until July, 13. Are yours the unfinished brass?
Diane Henkler says
Hi Jerri – I did write in the post that they were back ordered until July :) The bright brass are more expensive, but I bought them anyway and aged them as I did not want to wait until July. I will be posting how I aged them tomorrow.
Serena @ Thrift Diving says
Diane, what a pretty little makeover! I love your pastel palette of decorating. It’s very fresh. Great job :)
Serena
Thrift Diving
Linda Southworth says
I love this too Diane. Now a chalk paint question. Have you used the ASCP brand, can’t remember if you have said so previously? Does the calcium carbonate/latex you mix, how does it compare? I splurged and bought a can of ASCP and I am in love BUT I am not in love with the price.
Diane Henkler says
Hi Linda – Go with the Calcium Carbonate – after using all the DIY mixtures and both Annie Sloan and CeCe Caldwells I have found that Calcium Carbonate Powder is the best all around. Inexpensive, mixes well and the mixture will last a long time if you keep it tightly covered.
Terry says
Your blog is a joy to get in my email box! The buffet is so pretty and you gave it so much personality. I thank you for all the wealth of DIY you bring to me though your blog.
[email protected] says
It turned out great and the beadboard wallpaper is such a great idea.
Debbie says
I absolutely LOVE how this has turned out! Amazing what you can do with a bit of paint and wallpaper.
Jan Bergseth says
Love your room and your tutorial. You’re paving the path for the rest of us to follow down. The wallpaper idea is genius! Thanks again Diane, appreciate all your work and advice.
Sylvia says
B R A V O !!!!!
Diane, you never cease to amaze. Thanks for all the inspiration and knowledge.
vickie says
GIRRRLLL………. YOU ARE A GENIUS! BEAUTIFUL!!
Jerri C. TN says
GORGEOUS!!!!! I just repainted a french provincial dresser this weekend that will be an entertainment console & I was pining over Destiny’s pulls. Seeing them again on yours I am sold. Love it!!!
Deborah says
FANTASTIC! Of course it helps that I’m a lover of colour like yourself and that turquoise is my favorite; but really this is one of the best makeovers I’ve seen in a while.
Deborah
[email protected] Chaos says
Oh I love it! It is soooo pretty! Thanks for saring instructions. I swear, just when I thought you did something fabulous you turn around and do something even better!
Jennifer
Marti says
It looks great and really transformed the Early American piece.. I love the blue, yellow and white combination.
[email protected] says
Thank you so much for the detailed instructions, and your piece looks fantastic!
Sheryll & Critters. says
Wow, it turned out so beautiful. You always have the best instructions and the beadboard wallpaper!! Now I just need to get out and look around much more than I do. And I would have never thought of doing that…… just perfect.
And I like your family room much better than the pic in Country Living.
Pam Clark says
Thank you so much for this post Diane! I got several tips…..I’m going to paint a dresser to go in the middle of a room that’s going to become our closet. The beadboard backing is a perfect idea, I’d been fretting because of the ugly back of the dresser. Also, I’ve never used white glaze before, only dark and metalic glazes, so you’ve given me something to think about trying. Also, great idea to paint the screws inside the glass knobs, never would have thought of that either!!
Carolee says
I love this redo! So pretty:) I would like to repaint my bedroom furniture i might have to try this technique. Thanks for the inspiration!
Blessings!
Susan says
Beautiful! I love the color and the beautiful pulls you used. The wallpaper on the back was genius! Nice job!
susan
Becki says
The sideboard is gorgeous! And I love how you finished the back with the beadboard wallpaper!
[email protected] Satori Design for Living says
Gorgeous! Love your label pulls too!
Kimberly Ryan says
How beautiful! Diane I appreciate your clear descriptions,instructions, and illustrations. The bead board wallpaper is a fabulous idea. I was wondering why you chose to use chalk paint?
Diane Henkler says
Hi Kimberly – I have been painting furniture with primer and latex for years. I always was happy with the results, but after using chalk paint – I will never go back to using regular latex on furniture.( A few exceptions – maybe :) Chalk paint gives the finish and patina I always wanted to achieve and never could with latex. The need for no primer makes the finish much smoother as there are less coats of paint to apply. If I painted this piece to get good adhesion of the paint, I would have needed 2 coats of primer and 2 coats of paint. The surface can get thick. Chalk paint is thin and I only needed 2 coats – that keeps the surface very smooth. I also knew I wanted to distress the piece and chalk paint distresses beautifully. It looks great un-distressed, too.
Helen Henkler says
As always, Diane, just beautiful. Thanks for the how-to.
Gail says
Diane, I absolutely love the piece! The color is happy and fun. The beadboard wallpaper adds such a touch of character and charm. You are an inspiration!
Shannon @Fox Hollow Cottage says
This is an absolute dream. Gorgeous as can be! I can not gush enough over how pretty it is and how wonderful it looks. A treat to see!!!! You outdid yourself :)
Lynne says
I love the makeover on your family piece of furniture . . . it gives me some ideas.
The Country Living LR image looks wonderful. Love the colors, shapes and patterns in the pillows. Again . . . gives me some ideas!!
Thanks Diane . . .
Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says
Beautifully done, Diane! I love the color you chose and how it picks up on the colors in your office that I can see in the background. This was such a nice update to an older piece. Love how you addressed the back with the beadboard wallpaper, too. Those drawer pulls are great!
Kelly @ Eclectically Vintage says
Love it – the color and those pulls are fabulous!!
Kelly
Christine in DC says
I found your blog via Pinterest…LOVE the brilliant idea for covering the backs of furniture! I have always been perplexed by that issue…and spraypainting the interiors of the knobs. Also brilliant! Looks great!
Abbey says
The gold handles are the perfect complement to that pretty blue! Your mom had great advice…
Sandra says
How beautiful!!! Love it! Thanks for the how to, I am thinking about doing a coffee table and I love this color!
Naukri bubble says
Nice post thanks sharing this knowledge with us.