This DIY chalk finish paint post contains affiliate links.
I absolutely love the look of chalk finish paint and now it’s really easy to find a lot of different brands that make it. It isn’t cheap though and one way to get around that is to make your own. I want to show you how to make DIY chalk finish paint because it’s quite easy, gives a pretty great finish, and is really cost effective. If you’re looking for a way to save money, this recipe will give you the finish you’re looking for without costing much at all.
There are a number of chalk-finish paint recipes out there but I like the texture of this one and I like that it requires just two ingredients {three, if you count the water}.
How to Make DIY Chalk Finish Paint
To make your own chalk paint, you’ll need 1/2 cup Plaster of Paris, 1/2 cup hot water, and 1 1/2 cups of paint in the color of your choice. Any type of paint will work although I would avoid a glossy paint. You can use wall paint or craft paint in the recipe.
If you want to make this project even more economical, check out the oops paint cart or counter at your local hardware store. You can often buy large cans of paint for five dollars and there’s usually a great variety of color choices.
Mix 1/2 cup of Plaster of Paris with 1/2 cup of hot water and mix it really well with a paint stir stick. Be sure to mix until it’s completely smooth with no lumps.
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of paint and mix well, making sure the color is even throughout.
Once the paint is mixed really well, it’s ready to use.
Apply this DIY chalk finish paint with a large brush, the same way you would apply a storebought chalk paint. I recommend using a clear or colored wax after in order to create a smooth finish.
Have you ever tried making your own chalk finish paint? I’d love to know what recipe you use!
i’ve made it before too…a long time ago though. i think i used unsanded tile grout mix. probably a lot like plaster of paris. happy painting!
I made some also. I had read that using old plaster of paris wasn’t a good idea. I thought I might be the exception. Hmmmm…..turns out that was solid advice. Mine, even with hot water divided into lumps. I still used the paint and just worked around the lumps. Despite the problem, the finished products look great.
I was sent to your site by Dorothy @crazyforcrust.com (Online BlogCon) because I am in the Dallas area too. Hopefully, we can hook up sometime…love your blog and would love to meet you! 😉
That was easy! I’ve never tried chalkboard paint but have been thinking of ways to try it.
I needed a small jar, but for bigger projects this is perfect! Yes, it is expensive!
Visiting from DearCreatives.com
Well, here I am again… I took the fact that I clicked on TWO of your projects from Under the Table and Dreaming as a sign I needed to follow you; so meet your newest follower!!! Pinning this one too… you aren’t the last person to get on the chalk paint bandwagon. That would be ME! xoxo jules
You didn’t say if you used flat paint or satin paint……..will there be a difference?
I used satin. I imagine you could use either.
You sure are a smart lady.Love the chest of drawers.