Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by Wahid
For DIY beginners, chalk paint is an excellent choice because it is incredibly forgiving and covers well. When you’ve been doing home renovations, chalk paint probably makes grand claims.
How do you use chalk paint on fabric, and does it live up to the hype? Chalk paints provide full coverage, are highly adhesive, and are long-lasting. Almost anywhere can be painted with chalk paint, as it doesn’t require primer or special preparation. We researched & reviewed 12 best chalk paint for fabric, analyzing its ease of use, surface compatibility, and drying time; thus, you can make the right choice.
Throughout this article, we will discuss chalk paint in depth and compare different chalk paint brands. Well, let’s see what’s below.
What Is Chalk Paint?
- Exactly as its name suggests, chalk paint has a chalky, matte finish.
- This gives it a slightly rough appearance that can be sealed with a variety of products.
- DIY chalkboards are made using chalkboard paint, and this is different from chalk paint.
- As a result, it has become increasingly popular in home decor, particularly painting wooden objects.
- Vintage and rustic décor styles will love its relaxed appearance.
- Chalk paint has also been known as shabby chic & modern farmhouse.
What Is Chalk Paint Used For?
- Chalk paint is used widely for painting walls & furniture. For DIY painters who want a rustic and vintage look, it creates a unique look.
- Due to the matte finish of chalk paint, it requires some sort of sealant.
- Otherwise, fingerprints and dirt are difficult to remove, & the paint will flake and chip over time.
- Wax or another poly sealants can be used to seal paint.
- Chalk paint sealants can significantly alter the appearance of your paint job, so you should test it on a hidden area first.
- In addition, chalk paint does not require any prior preparation like sanding or primer — something that contributes to its popularity.
12 Best Chalk Paint For Fabric: In-Depth Discussion
- Best Overall: Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint
- Best for Fabric: Country Chic Paint Chalk Style Paint
- Best for Furniture: Retique It by Renaissance Chalk Finish Furniture Paint
- Best Eco-Friendly: Recolor Premium Chalk Finish Paint
- Best Spray: Krylon Chalky Finish Aerosol Spray Paint
- Best Low-VOC: Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint
- Best for Crafts: FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint
- Best for Walls: Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
- Best Matte Finish: Jolie Paint
- Best for DIY: KILZ Chalk Paint
- Best Sealing Finishes: Behr Chalk Paint
- Best Manufacturer: Sherwin-Williams Chalk Paint
Comparison Of Top Rates Chalk Paint For Fabric
We’ve analyzed top 5 Chalk Paint For Fabric based on their size, special features, weight and everything. Here you go and pick the right one.
1. Best Overall: Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint
Our top pick for adding a rustic feel to any color project would be the Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint. There is no stirring required to apply this multipurpose chalk paint, which can be applied to any surface, including ceramic, wood, and metal. There are eleven colors available, 1 protective topcoat, & 2 glazes to choose from. For a custom color, mix 2 or more Rust-Oleum chalked paints to get the shade you want.
After 30 minutes, this paint will be dry to the touch. Nonetheless, if you want a fully opaque finish, you need to wait about 2 hours between each coat. Although primer is not necessary for chalk paint, unfinished wood can benefit from primer. Paint also adheres without sanding your surface. Whenever you spill paint accidentally on the floor, just use soap & water to clean it up.
In our opinion, this is the best paint on the market because it’s affordable, long-lasting, and transforms old furniture into something truly unique.
Pros
- No priming is needed
- Suitable for wood & metal surfaces
- Low odor
Cons
- Colors are limited
Surface: Metal, wood, plastic, laminate, glass, ceramic, and fabric.
Coverage: 1 quart can cover 150 square feet.
Dry Time: 30 minutes.
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2. Best for Fabric: Country Chic Paint Chalk Style Paint
Despite what some people believe, chalk paint can be used on fabrics, furniture, and vases, as well as on walls. The majority of chalk paints will work on fabric, but our favorite is Country Chic, which comes in over 50 colors.
Spray upholstery thoroughly with water, then brush on chalk paint (dilute it slightly). Then, if necessary, paint a 2nd or 3rd time to achieve the desired look. Using chalk paint, a side chair or even the entire sofa can be transformed in minutes. The dust on upholstery can prevent color from adhering, so make sure the surface is clean and vacuumed before painting. The paint contains no heavy metals, phthalates, or formaldehyde. Depending on your needs, it comes in 4-, 16-, or 32-ounce containers.
Pros
- Color selection is great
- Chemical-free
- Great coverage
Cons
- Scratches easily
Surface: Wood, plastic, metal, ceramic, laminate, glass, fabric.
Coverage: 32-ounce covers 120 feet.
Dry Time: 30 minutes.
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3. Best for Furniture: Retique It by Renaissance Chalk Finish Furniture Paint
When flipping furniture for fun or for extra cash, it is always important to have the highest quality paint available. Because of this, we recommend Retique It by Renaissance Chalk Finish Paint. With a special focus on furniture, this product provides thick, scratch-resistant coverage. Despite not being highly moisture-resistant, Retique It offers a sealer that can be applied to tables, nightstands, & other places where glasses are set or spills & splatters may occur.
Brush-on application is easy, and it dries in 30 minutes, usually with a 2nd coat required. There are more than 40 colors available in this low odor paint, ranging from subtle to eye-catching. Through the use of Retique It Chalk Paint, a quick facelift of your kitchen cabinets is possible instead of a full renovation. When painting a highly trafficked area, such as your kitchen, the cabinets should be waxed afterward to prevent scratches.
Pros
- Easy cleanup
- Low odor
- Thick & even coverage
Cons
- It needs a sealer that is water-resistant
Surface: Wood, metal, plastic, laminate.
Coverage: 1 quart covers approximately 100 square feet.
Dry Time: 30 minutes.
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4. Best Eco-Friendly: Recolor Premium Chalk Finish Paint
Makeover your outdated wooden furniture with eco-friendly products such as RECOLOR Premium Chalk Finish Paint, which uses only recycled paint. Your DIY project is less likely to create waste and will have a lower carbon footprint. For the paint to meet the standards it met when it was 1st used, it is manufactured and tested to ensure compliance. It conserves 3.4 pounds of CO2 and 3 gallons of water per quart.
A quart of RECOLOR chalk paint costs around $27 & covers about 100 square feet. In order to achieve an opaque finish, you’ll need to use a 2nd coat. You can choose from nearly 20 colors, but should not use the paint on metal.
Pros
- Produced using recycled paint
- Minimize waste
- More than 20 colors to choose from
Cons
- Applying to metals is not recommended
Surface: Wood.
Coverage: 1 quart covers 100 square feet.
Dry Time: 2 to 6 hours
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5. Best Spray: Krylon Chalky Finish Aerosol Spray Paint
Rather than using a brush to achieve a matte, chalky finish on large furniture, try Krylon Chalky Finish Spray Paint. The Chalky Finish Spray Paint by Krylon comes in over a dozen unique colors and offers the same smooth ultra matte finish as classic chalk paint. Be sure to protect your deck or patio before getting started, and wear a mask & goggles. Before you use the can, shake it well to eliminate any clumps and streaking.
While other types of chalk paint peel or flake off when subjected to water, Krylon stays bright and looks wonderful for years to come. Besides wood, metal, plastic, glass, wicker, & even ceramics, easy-drying paint dries within 25 minutes. Approximately 25 square feet can be covered by 1 can Krylon Spray Paint.
Pros
- Application of spray is easy
- Excellent adherence
- Chalky matte finish
Cons
- Contains VOCs
Surface: Wood, metal, laminate, wicker, plastic, ceramic, glass.
Coverage: Each container will cover 20-25 square feet.
Dry Time: 25 minutes.
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6. Best Low-VOC: Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint
As VOCs (volatile organic compounds) release into the air when paint cures, they are associated with a number of health problems. It is comforting to know that Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint does not contain them. This water-based paint has impressive adhesive properties, which saves you time during painting. A chalk paint does not require priming or sanding before use.
The Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint comes in 74 different and unique colors, compared to a dozen & so from most other chalk paint manufacturers. Alternatively, if you are unable to find the perfect shade, you can upload an image to Dixie Belle’s website for a color matching tool. Additionally, it has a tool for mixing colors. Dixie Belle Paint comes in 8 ounces, 16 ounces, or 32-ounce sizes, covering approximately 36 square feet per 8 ounces.
Pros
- A wonderful color selection
- Water-based
- No VOC
Cons
- Limited availability
Surface: Wood, metal, ceramic, glass, plastic, brick, fabric.
Coverage: 36 square feet per 8 ounces.
Dry Time: 30 minutes
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7. Best For Crafts: FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint
Any crafter will tell you, storing paint that has been left over can be tedious, especially when it dries out. Therefore, FolkArt Home Décor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint is ideal for crafts. The product comes in small bottles as 2 oz & jars as big as 32 oz. With accurate paint measurements, you’ll avoid wasting money or even space on your project.
While there isn’t much variety of colors, for about $2 per 2 ounces, it is affordable to buy 2. Creating your own color combinations is also an option. Like most chalk paints, it is extremely flexible and is suitable for a wide array of surfaces, such as wood & glass.
Pros
- An extremely affordable
- Clean up is easy
- Dries quickly
Cons
- Limited colors
Surface: Wood, ceramic, glass, fabric.
Coverage: 8 ounces can cover 20 square feet.
Dry Time: 2 hours.
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8. Best For Walls: Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
In the chalk paint movement, Annie Sloan chalk paint is without a doubt the queen. A first-of-its-kind paint formula was developed by her. It’s easier of use & silky texture have won praise from bloggers and DIYers alike. If you like a chalky finish on your walls, Annie Sloan is your best choice.
Similar to chalk paint, it produces a matte, soft finish. Despite its formulation, it does not dry out quickly when applied to walls. It also works well on difficult surfaces, such as brick, stucco, & paneling, due to its excellent adhesion.
The more effort you put into tracking down Annie Sloan products, the more assured you will be that your color project will be beautiful. With over 30 colors to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect shade. Despite costing $45, this chalk paint is the best quality and most expensive one in our review.
Pros
- Suitable for large surfaces
- Highly pigmented
- Excellent coverage
- Works on concrete & brick
Cons
- Availability is limited to specialty stores and online
- A bit pricey
Surface: Walls.
Coverage: 1 liter will cover 140 square feet.
Dry Time: 2 hours.
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9. Best Matte Finish Paint: Jolie Paint
With Jolie Chalk-Style Paint, you get water-based, non-toxic, and fast-drying paint. It is a premium paint that applies smoothly, yet still provides a desirable brushstroke texture. A chalk paint smell is not present in it.
It takes almost no time for this paint to dry, so your 2nd coat can be applied almost immediately. In addition, it is easy to clean. You can buff this to a higher shine with Jolie Finishing Wax.
Pros
- No sanding or priming required
- Application to a variety of surfaces is easy
- Easily cleanable with soap & water
- Low-VOC and non-toxic paint for indoor use
Cons
- Availability is limited to specialty stores and online
Surface: Woods, metal, matte plastics, concrete, brick, stone and more.
Coverage: 1 32oz quart can cover roughly 150 square feet & 4oz sample covers 20 square feet.
Dry Time: 30 minutes.
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10. Best For DIY: KILZ Chalk Paint
KILZ Chalk Style Paint is high-quality paint highly regarded among DIY hobbyists as easy & reliable paint. While it is intended for upcycling color projects, it’s ideal for a wide range of uses. KILZ chalk paint provides great coverage and is easy to apply. You only need to clean the surface & remove all dust before applying. Primers and other preparations are not required.
KILZ also offers a special wax for sealing your project, keeping it in top condition. It is specially formulated for small interior renovations like upcycling furniture. 1 to 2 coats can be applied to a clean, dust-free surface according to your desired look.
Pros
- Easy to clean with soap and water
- Provides excellent coverage & durable
- Existing finishes without surface preparation
Cons
- Availability is limited to specialty stores and online
Surface: Old or new wood, cast stone, concrete or properly prepared metal surfaces, and more.
Coverage: Covers up to 100 square feet per quart.
Dry Time: 1 to 2 hours.
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11. Behr Chalk Paint
There is no doubt that Behr chalk paint belongs to the top brands in the painting world. Chalk paint by this company is worthy of its reputation. There is excellent coverage and excellent matte finish to this product.
Additionally, Behr offers a wide range of sealing finishes, such as wax, to help you achieve the style you desire. A unique feature of this product is that, its brush-on chalk paint option, it also comes with a spray version. Furthermore, this provides superior coverage for various materials, such as wood, laminate, metal, and more.
You should consider Behr if you need high-quality chalk paint.
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12. Sherwin-Williams Chalk Paint
In terms of paint brands, Sherwin-Williams stands out, although it does not manufacture chalk paint. Instead, Sherwin-Williams offers chalk paint as part of its Krylon Chalky Finish brand, as previously mentioned.
You can’t go wrong with chalk paint when you’re a featured brand of the nationally recognized paint manufacturer Sherwin-Williams!
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How To Choose Right Chalk Paint: Buyers Guide
Surface Compatibility
In addition to meticulous cleaning, many chalk paints cover a wide range of surfaces with little prep. Besides wood and glass, they are also good for metal, ceramic, and laminate. Be sure to check the product’s label to ensure it is suitable for the surface you want to use it on. It is especially important if the material is nonporous, such as metal or glass. When it comes to protecting the environment, Water-Based Chalky Paint by RECOLOR Paints is an excellent choice, though metal surfaces should be avoided.
Low VOCs
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are chemicals released into the air during paint curing and are associated with a number of health problems. Chalk paints are generally low-VOC or no-VOC, but always check the product’s label before using. Consider a paint with no VOCs if you are concerned about them, like Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint.
Coverage & Dry Time
The coverage claims of chalk paint should be viewed with caution since each project varies greatly. Darker wood, for instance, requires more product & coats to cover, especially when you use a lighter color. When you want to achieve a weathered appearance, full coverage isn’t essential. If you let the wood show through, you may even like it. The average chalk paint ounce covers approximately 1 to 3 square feet.
A major advantage of chalk paint is that it dries quickly, enabling you to complete your project quickly. While chalk paint typically dries in 30 minutes to 1 hour, be sure to use additional coats according to manufacturer instructions. Between coats, chalk paint should be allowed to dry for at least 2 hours.
Durability
Chalk paint can be extended by waxing or sealing with polyurethane. A waterproof wax should be applied to chalk paint finishes to prevent wear & tear, especially where there is a high level of traffic or touch. Manufacturers like Rust-Oleum & others provide chalk paint top coats made for peace of mind.
Chalk paint does not need to be sealed. Instead of covering it, many prefer the natural patina that chalk paint surfaces develop over time. There is a matte, chalky appearance to this patina.
FAQs
In case you still have questions on chalk paint & how it works, don’t worry. Some of the most common questions related to chalk paint at home are listed here.
Is it necessary to sand the upholstery before applying chalk paint?
Sanding upholstery is necessary to ensure effective chalk paint adhesion. By doing this, the surface is roughened, which makes the paint stick better. Ensure a durable finish by completing this step.
Which Chalk Paint Is Best For Walls?
Chalk paint is popular for walls because it gives them a distressed appearance that’s still chic & modern. In terms of chalk paint brands that offer quality coverage and versatility, Annie Sloan is the best choice. Since this brand was introduced in 1990 & it has been continually developed. The product is designed specifically for application on walls and furniture, that making it an excellent choice for every room.
Can chalk paint be used on leather upholstery?
Leather upholstery can be painted with chalk paint, but it is a tricky process to apply. This product has many pros, including a unique and shabby-chic look, but it is also susceptible to peeling and cracking. Be cautious and do ample research before taking any action.
Is it better to brush or roll chalk paint?
For those seeking a rustic look, chalk paint is best applied using a long bristled brush with natural flexibility. This matte finish is given some character by the brushstrokes. It is preferred by some people to use a foam roller, although additional paint may be necessary.
Can chalk paint be used on outdoor upholstery?
Of course. Outdoor upholstery can be painted with chalk paint if properly prepared. Make sure you choose high-quality, durable chalk paint and has a range of colors. Seal the final piece with a sealant to make it even more durable.
What is the right way to clean painted upholstery?
It can seem impossible to clean painted upholstery, but don’t worry! If you follow these cleaning tips & stain-removal techniques, you will have brand new upholstery a short time later.
Do you need 2 coats of chalk paint?
Chalk paint is an excellent choice for painting walls because it adheres to many surfaces without requiring primer or sanding. In most cases, a single layer of chalk paint will do, based on personal preference. Painting a dresser lightly may be sufficient to give it the appearance of weathering. The coverage will be better if the coat is thicker. Chalk paints have a thicker consistency than self-leveling paints, which means they cover more surface area with fewer brushstrokes.
How long does chalk paint last on upholstery before reapplication?
In terms of durability, chalk paint on upholstery varies depending on the paint’s quality and how it’s used. The frequency of reapplication can vary from every few months to every few years. Actually, paint can last longer if maintained properly.
What Is the Best Way to Seal Chalk Paint?
In most cases, chalk paint is sealed with wax. The chalk paint comes with this commercially available item in almost every store.
> After your project has dried completely, wax it.
> Then rub the paint gently and thoroughly with a dry, clean cloth dipped in wax.
> Other options are available if you don’t want to apply wax. Polyacrylic, oil, or a glaze can also be used.
> Each substance will have a distinctive look, so make sure you spot test before selecting.If Chalk Paint Isn’t Waxed, What Happens?
Chalk paint shouldn’t be skipped unless it’s meant to be painted alone like Country Chic chalk paint. Leaving your paint job unwaxed can result in it looking dull & lifeless. The paint is also prone to chipping and cracking over time, & it is very tricky to clean due to its extremely matte finish. Despite its time-consuming nature, waxing is definitely worth it.
What Are the Pros & Cons of Chalk Paint?
In addition to chalk paint’s ease of use, it also does not require any preparation — such as primer. In most brands, it dries quickly, and it’s easy and quick to apply.
After painting, you will need to seal it with an appropriate sealant. The result will be faded, instead of a bright look without sealing it. Also, matte paint is extremely difficult to clean on its own, and it is more likely to chip. However, it’s as easy as rubbing wax over chalk paint to seal it.
Conclusion
A brief overview of the best chalk paint for fabric finally here. Improvements to homes have been using chalk paint for over 30 years, and it doesn’t appear to be slowing down. There is no better chalk paint than Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint. This paint has outstanding adhesion and durability, making it ideal for a wide range of surfaces. FolkArt Home Decor Chalk Paint is a great choice for small craft projects with little leftover paint. There are 2-ounce bottles available for around 1 dollar each.
Ultimately, chalk paint choice depends on your personal preference, color project type, and paint type. Enjoy your painting!
