Why I Stopped Using Chalk Paint (And What I Use Instead)

When I first started painting furniture, chalk paint was all the rage. It promised quick transformations with no sanding, no priming, and an effortlessly distressed look—basically, everything a beginner DIYer dreams of.

And I’ll be honest, it did make painting feel less intimidating. It helped me jump into my first furniture makeovers with confidence, and I still think chalk paint is a great entry point for new painters.

But after years of refinishing furniture (both for myself and clients), I’ve moved on from chalk paint—and here’s exactly why.

Want to see what I use instead? Scroll down for my current go-to paint and supply list, with links to my favorite products.

---

1. The No-Sanding, No-Priming Promise? Not Always True

One of chalk paint’s biggest selling points is that it doesn’t require any sanding or priming.

In theory, this sounds amazing. But in reality? Not every piece of furniture is that cooperative.

Especially when you’re working with older, previously finished wood, there’s a high chance of:

• Bleed-through from old stains
• Raised imperfections that show through paint
• Poor adhesion without proper prep

If you’re going for a smooth, clean finish, sanding and priming is still the most reliable way to get there. I’ve learned this the hard way—and now I always keep a can of this oil-based primer on hand to block stains and prep glossy surfaces.

Pro Tip: Chalk paint can sometimes cover these issues, but they often come back over time. A little prep goes a long way.

2. Chalk Paint Isn’t as Durable as Conventional Products

This is the main reason I stopped using chalk paint.

Most chalk paint finishes require a wax topcoat for protection—but that wax:

• Needs to be reapplied every 1-2 years
• Takes 30 days to fully cure
• Scratches off easily if not applied perfectly

I can’t tell you how many pieces I waxed that still felt tacky or scratched easily, even months later. (Probably user error, but still frustrating.)

Eventually, I switched to using Polycrylic as my topcoat. It’s water-based, durable, and doesn’t yellow over time like polyurethane. Game changer.

Want an even tougher finish? MasterClear Topcoat is one of my favorite professional-grade sealers—perfect for pieces that get heavy use.

---

3. Chalk Paint Is Pricey

When I started painting more frequently, I realized just how expensive chalk paint can be.

Most brands are $35–$45 per quart—which adds up fast if you’re working on larger pieces or want a variety of colors in your stash.

Now I use latex paints that give me the same smooth finish, with better durability and more color options at a better price.

Here’s what I currently use:

My Current Go-To Furniture Painting Products

If I had to pick only three products for painting furniture, these would be it:

Zinsser Cover Stain Primer

Blocks old stains, seals slick surfaces, and preps for paint—especially important for vintage wood.

Valspar Furniture Paint

Self-leveling, smooth finish, and way easier to use than traditional milk paint. It’s technically a mineral-based acrylic, so don’t let the name fool you!

Modern Masters MasterClear Top Coat

Durable, professional finish that holds up to real life.
Polycrylic is a more budget friendly alternative. 

These products last across multiple projects and are well worth the investment.

Want my full supply list + step-by-step process? Download my free furniture painting guide here and get everything I use for pro-quality results.

Still Love Chalk Paint? That’s Totally Okay!

I’m not here to knock chalk paint entirely. Brands like Annie Sloan and CeCe Caldwell’s helped me fall in love with furniture painting. And for beginners, chalk paint still has its perks:

• Tons of gorgeous colors
• Easy to distress
• Low odor and beginner-friendly
• Available at specialty boutiques with hands-on classes

And if you’re looking for an all-natural or VOC-free option, some chalk paint brands offer that too.

Just know that even with chalk paint, some projects will still require sanding or priming—especially if you want your finish to last.

Best Brushes for Any Type of Paint

Whether you’re using chalk paint, latex, or mineral paint, I highly recommend keeping a few angled brushes like this one on hand. They give you smooth edges and great control on furniture projects.

I also love these chip brushes for oil-based primer or quick projects—they’re budget-friendly and get the job done.

---

Chalk paint got me started on my painting journey—and for that, I’ll always be thankful.

But after years of refinishing furniture, I’ve found that conventional prep methods and more durable products give me better, longer-lasting results (especially when working for clients).

So while I don’t use chalk paint much anymore, I totally understand why it’s a favorite for beginners and casual DIYers.

Have You Tried Chalk Paint?

Let me know your thoughts! Do you still swear by it, or have you moved on to other paints? Drop your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s worked for you.