9 Best Chalk Paints for Furniture, Décor, and DIY Projects

Best Chalk Paints

Here's the list of the 9 best chalk paints of 2023, perfect for revamping your furniture and giving any surface a fresh, colorful makeover.

1. Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint - Best for Versatile Surfaces

When it comes to chalk paints, Rust-Oleum is a brand to reckon with as it has some of the best products on the market. That being said, our second pick, the Chalked Ultra Matte Paint, is an excellent choice for touching up kitchen cabinets and other interior furnishings to create a warm, cozy look.

Why Did We Like It?

Want to give your kitchen a vintage spin without any ground-up renovation? Dab your cabinets with a coat of your favorite Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte paint, and get the smooth, matte finish without breaking the bank.

We love that it works on nearly any surface, including wood, metal, ceramic, glass, and canvas, thereby creating a chic, elegant look with just one coat. Besides, these paints come in 30-ounce cans, offering coverage of up to 150 sq ft and with a dry time of 30 minutes.

While one coat is sufficient for most applications, we suggest applying a topcoat to your kitchen cabinets and any pieces that receive a lot of traffic for improved durability. What impressed us the most is its adhesion, as the paint can be applied without sanding or priming - just what you want in chalk paint. 

Other than that, if you're looking to create a distressed look, we suggest buying two contrasting colors for the desired effect.

What Could've Been Better?

We're delighted with the finish of the paint as it can truly transform any old cabinets, tabletops, and other surfaces in just one coat. However, in case you want to apply a top coat on certain surfaces, be careful while doing so since the paint can get smudged because of uneven brush strokes.

2. Retique It Chalk Finish Paint by Renaissance - Best for Comprehensive Kit

The Retique It Chalk Finish Paint by Renaissance is delightfully comprehensive as it has everything you'll ever need to achieve a regal chalk finish. Placed third on our list, this kit is the perfect buy for busy homeowners looking for a product that comes with compatible applicators, thereby saving time and effort.

Why Did We Like It?

Firstly, we're amazed by their extensive 40-color line-up, allowing users to choose among different options, especially if you're planning to achieve a particular look. In addition to the 1 quart of paint, the kit features 13.5 fl oz clear wax, 4.2 fl oz dark wax, a 2" paintbrush, 1. 5" wax brush, and a 1" wax detail brush.

So, get ready to channel your inner Picasso and create a vibrant look in the kitchen, living room, or dining space with this beautiful range of colors. What seals the deal is that the paints are eco-friendly and non-toxic with zero VOCs, which makes them safe for use even around children and pets. 

Quality-wise, we're happy with the neat and rich finish of this paint, offering good coverage in just 1-2 coats. All in all, we suggest getting this if you want to avoid long and tiring sanding and priming sessions before the paint job.

What Could've Been Better?

The paint is thicker compared to other chalk paints and tends to clump a little unless you dilute it. But that's a minor quibble and not necessarily a big downer. Therefore, we suggest thinning it down before application so you can achieve a consistent finish and also get better coverage.

3. Dixie Belle Paint Company Chalk Paint - Best for Minimal Prep Work

We're halfway through our recommendations, and now is a good time to introduce the Dixie Belle Paint Company Chalk Paint. So if you have an elaborate restoration project in mind, we suggest going with our seventh option, as it requires minimal prep work and offers superior coverage. Also, compared to other brands at this price range, this unique chalk paint is ahead by a whole league.

Why Did We Like It?

Traditional paints require extensive prep work in the form of sanding, scraping, and priming, which is not only a time-consuming task but also laborious. That's where the Dixie Belle Chalk Paint comes into the picture, making things much more convenient by eliminating all such preparatory sessions.

Furthermore, we're in love with the flat, no-frills appearance of this paint, which adds a muted, sophisticated touch to interior decor and furnishings. Apart from that, we like that the product is gluten-free and non-toxic, without any VOCs, keeping your indoor environment unpolluted and safe. 

Also, you can purchase colors in contrasting tones and create a distressed look on accent pieces and other standalone furniture. Besides, the paint is available in 8-ounce, 16-ounce, and 32-ounce sizes, allowing you to customize purchases as per requirements. Overall, it's a great product, especially if you're looking to save money while also spinning a fresh new look.

What Could've Been Better?

You must be wondering what could be wrong with this item, especially when we couldn't stop praising it. Well, there's no point sugarcoating here, but the paint takes a lot of time to dry compared to several other chalk paints. This becomes quite a hassle when you have hyperactive children or pets at home.

4. KILZ 00004404 Interior Chalk Style Paint

For our eighth spot, we've selected the KILZ 00004404 Interior Chalk Style Paint, ideal for upcycling existing furniture that has lost its sheen over time. However, this product is not limited to repainting wood but also works on various other surfaces, adding a touch of grandeur with a luxurious finish.

Why Did We Like It?

As homeowners, sometimes we have single pieces of furniture or standalone decor items that look worse for wear. Although repainting such items constitutes a small project, it's best not to skimp on quality and use something that won't even last a year.

That's why we recommend this Kilz product, as it can really charm up any old wooden furnishings. And if you've some leftover, you can use it on anything, including cast stone, concrete, and properly prepared metal surfaces. Furthermore, it can even be applied over most existing finishes with little to no surface preparation. 

What we like best is its thick consistency that imbues character to any ordinary surface and creates a luxurious look. Also, it offers great coverage, so if you're buying just one can, it will cover 100 sq ft. Lastly, it's pretty low maintenance as you just have to occasionally wipe the painted surface with soap and water to maintain the effect for a long time.

What Could've Been Better?

We love how pigmented this paint is and especially like its performance in terms of coverage. However, we suggest not using a roller as an applicator as it may mark up the surface since the paint is too thick. You can try thinning it down, but that may somewhat diminish the final look.

5. Krylon K04101000 Spray Paint

Spray paints have been around for a while now, and nothing should be holding us back from using them on furnishings. It may not be among the conventional choices, but it sure saves a lot of time, which is otherwise spent on preparing a can of paint. So, here we present the Krylon K04101000 Spray Paint, as our ninth pick.

Why Did We Like It?

Tired of lugging around a heavy can of paint just to get some touch-ups done here and there? This Krylon Spray paint is the lightweight, handy solution you need to finish repainting projects in a snap. Thanks to this compact spray canister, you can now achieve a chalk finish in no time, and that too without surface preparation.

Like most high-quality chalk paints, there's no need for priming before applying this product; all you gotta do is aim and spray. Frankly, it doesn't get as simple as this, and we really appreciate the fact that it dries up in 25 minutes. Also, it creates the perfect ultra-matte look, adding a touch of pristine white, without a hint of streaking or run-ons. 

Each unit can cover up to 25 sq ft and provides excellent adhesion and durability, at par with traditional chalk paints. So if you're looking to complete the paint job without breaking a sweat, this product is the best deal.

What Could've Been Better?

As you near the end of the can, the paint tends to get a little clogged and struggles to come out. We would have liked it better if the spray can dispensed smoothly till the end, instead of spurting blobs of paint. Nevertheless, it's still worth the time and money as you can wrap up the work real quick.

6. FolkArt 34151 Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint

The FolkArt 34151 Home Decor Chalk Furniture & Craft Paint is an excellent choice for DIY-ers and craft enthusiasts, looking to make a vibrant splash. This line-up is available in multiple sizes and comprises a beautiful palette, offering rich and creamy colors that can add a gorgeous look to boring pieces of furniture.

Why Did We Like It?

Despite being placed so low on our list, this Home Decor Chalk Paint is one of our favorites, primarily for its rich texture and consistency. We are very impressed with the durable matte finish that this paint provides, allowing users to apply it on high-traffic surfaces confidently.

Apart from that, we really like the affordable price tag, as we believe there's no point in spending a ton on refurbishing projects. Besides, the product can be used on multiple surfaces, including wood, metal, ceramic, plaster, terracotta, and canvas, ensuring minimal wastage and leftovers. 

Moreover, there's no need for stripping or priming before coating any surface, as the paint can evenly spread without any smudges. Also, it's pretty easy to layer and great for creating a shabby chic distressed look on wooden pieces. Other than that, we like the use of water-based formula, since it makes things more manageable, enabling users to clean the surface with soap and water.

What Could've Been Better?

Literally nothing else other than the drying time. Some pieces and surfaces may need a second coat, but the drying between coats is quite long, and you have to wait for the first layer to bond properly. This is especially a hassle when you're trying to work with pets or children around.

7. Shabby Chic Chalk-Based Furniture Paint

The Shabby Chic Furniture Paint is what you should get if you're looking to create a distressed look on a side table or any other decor piece for that matter. The item comes in 250ml cans, but you'll be surprised at the coverage it can provide. So if you want to get your money's worth, add this to your cart stat.

Why Did We Like It?

If you're looking to redecorate your coffee table or display cabinet, the Shabby Chic paint is the best suited for the purpose. All you have to do is get two contrasting colors and create a distressed effect to incorporate a vintage charm into the interiors.

Plus, the paint consists of a richly pigmented formula, meaning you don't have to spend on a primer or get an undercoat. This is genuinely cost-saving as you can use the product on multiple surfaces, in case there's any leftover.

Furthermore, you can apply it to different surfaces like wood, brick, stone, and plaster, although coverage depends on the porosity of the material. Other than that, you can use a brush or a roller to apply this, which makes things much simpler, especially if you're working on differently shaped surfaces.  

Lastly, this water-based item is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, so you can use it to repaint porch furniture or pots on the balcony as well.

What Could've Been Better?

Applying the paint is complicated if you're working on waxed surfaces, as in that case, you've to get rid of the layer using white spirit. Therefore, to ensure high adhesion, you must ascertain that the surface is free from oil, grease, or wax. If you're not sure, it's best to just clean the surface once before application.

8. Ronseal Chalky Furniture Paint

Now that we've reached the end of our list, we would like to finish off with the Ronseal Chalky Furniture Paint. However, its bottom position is not a comment on its quality or coverage per se, as we simply consider it to be the last of the best 9 performers.

Why Did We Like It?

If you're looking for a no-nonsense product that will do the job as advertised, this Ronseal item is your best bet. For starters, some of us prefer a no-frills appearance on decor or furniture pieces as it exudes class and sophistication. And this product delivers exactly that with a flat matte finish that perfectly blends with the existing decor.

Furthermore, this high-performance item protects the surface from regular wear and tear and does not rub off upon contact. This is a significant advantage, especially if you're working in a high-traffic area. Apart from that, we're very impressed with the color payoff, and most importantly, the shade you see is the shade you get.

Meaning, unlike certain products, where customers always complain about receiving a slightly different color, this brand actually makes an effort to provide the exact shade. Lastly, if you're looking for an affordable, long-lasting solution to revamp old pieces, give this product a shot.

What Could've Been Better?

You must be wondering why we placed this item at the bottom despite such great qualities. Well, the only reason is that it contains sensitizing substances that may induce an allergic reaction among users. Therefore, if you intend to buy this, we suggest doing a swatch test first before beginning the project.

9. Chalky Chicks Chalk Finish Paint

Upcycling furniture and decor pieces is a practical approach to reducing replacement costs and creating a brand-new look at the same time. That's why we suggest giving the Chalky Chicks Chalk Finish Paint a shot to finish your projects in style. Also, if you're into craft and DIY activities, get your hands on this stat.

Why Did We Like It?

What if you had chalk paint that could be applied to a sorry-looking sofa or couch, restoring it to its former glory? Well, that is no longer a theory as the Chalky Chicks paint can be even used on fabric, in addition to multiple other surfaces.

To begin with, this high-quality chalk finish paint is available in a ready-mix formula, meaning there's no need to add water to get the consistency right. Furthermore, you can apply it to more or less everything, including raw wood, laminate, glass, resin, metal, brick, and cement, while achieving coverage of about 150 sq ft.

Besides, if you want to decorate any surface with a spray-on effect, you can do so by loading the product in an HVLP paint sprayer. What we like best about this item is its ultra-low VOC content, keeping toxic fumes and substances to a minimum. So if you've children at home, we suggest using this product for a safer experience.

What Could've Been Better?

We are, for the most part, happy with this product, but the only thing that bothered us is the drying time and adherence. When applied on certain surfaces, the paint takes more time to adhere and may come off easily or get smudged. We would've liked it better if dried off faster and bonded quickly.

Best Chalk Paints Comparison Table

Best Chalk Paint Guide

Chalk paint has become a favorite for DIY enthusiasts and professional decorators because of its ability to transform furniture and décor with minimal prep work. But not all chalk paints perform equally. To choose the best chalk paint for your project, you should focus on four main factors: color, adhesion, finish, and drying time.

Colors

The color of chalk paint should complement or contrast with your existing décor, depending on the effect you want to achieve. Bold hues like navy, emerald, and charcoal create strong focal points for accent furniture, while pastels and muted neutrals such as cream, dove gray, and sage evoke a softer, vintage look. Many brands now offer mixable chalk paint palettes, allowing you to blend shades for a customized tone that matches your interior style.

Adhesive Qualities

One of the defining features of chalk paint is its ability to adhere directly to wood, laminate, metal, or glass without sanding or priming. However, adhesive strength varies by brand. High-quality formulations bond firmly even in high-traffic areas like kitchen cabinets or dining tables, while lower-grade paints may chip or wear quickly. Always verify that the paint is marketed as multi-surface and self-priming, especially if you want to avoid extra preparation.

Finish

Chalk paint is best known for its ultra-matte, velvety finish, which enhances vintage, shabby chic, and farmhouse styles. Some paints, however, deliver a silky matte or low-sheen effect, giving furniture a richer depth. Finishes can be customized further with clear waxes, tinted waxes, or polyurethane sealers, which add durability and allow you to adjust sheen levels from matte to satin.

Drying Time

Fast drying is one of chalk paint’s biggest advantages. Many paints are dry to the touch within 30–60 minutes, with recoat times of two hours or less. This allows multiple coats and even distressing techniques to be completed in a single day. Keep in mind that while surface drying is quick, full curing may take 1–2 weeks, during which heavy use should be avoided.

How is chalk paint different from regular paint?

Chalk paint is different from regular paint because it has a thicker, mineral-based consistency that dries quickly to a matte finish. Unlike latex or oil-based paints, chalk paint requires little to no sanding or priming, adheres to most surfaces, and can be easily distressed for a shabby chic or vintage effect.

Do I need to sand or prime before using chalk paint?

You usually do not need to sand or prime before using chalk paint, as most high-quality formulations are self-priming and highly adhesive. However, it’s still best to clean the surface thoroughly and repair any deep imperfections. For slick surfaces such as laminate or metal, light sanding or a bonding primer can improve durability.

How long does chalk paint take to dry?

Chalk paint typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour to dry to the touch, depending on temperature and humidity. While the surface dries quickly, full curing occurs over several days. Avoid placing heavy items or applying sealants until the paint has cured fully for maximum hardness.

Do I need to apply a topcoat over chalk paint?

Applying a topcoat over chalk paint is recommended if the surface will see frequent handling, spills, or wear. Common sealants include clear wax, tinted wax, or polyurethane, which protect against scratches and moisture. A topcoat also enriches color depth and allows you to choose between matte, satin, or glossy finishes.

Can I mix different colors of chalk paint?

Yes, you can mix different colors of chalk paint to create custom shades and tones. Because chalk paint is water-based, it blends easily, giving you endless color possibilities to match your décor. Some users even layer colors to create textured, aged finishes.

How do I clean and maintain chalk-painted surfaces?

To clean and maintain chalk-painted surfaces, wipe with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, which can damage the matte finish. Surfaces sealed with wax or polyurethane should be re-waxed or resealed periodically to maintain protection and sheen.

Conclusion

Using chalk paint is one of the simplest and most creative ways to refresh furniture and décor, offering minimal prep, excellent adhesion, and customizable finishes. From our list of top options, the Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint is the most versatile choice, working across multiple surfaces with a smooth matte effect. For those seeking a full kit with a broad color palette, the Retique It Chalk Finish Paint by Renaissance provides both range and convenience. And if you want quick coverage with minimal surface prep, the Dixie Belle Paint Company Chalk Paint excels with its rich pigmentation and ease of use. By choosing the right chalk paint—whether for bold accent pieces, vintage restorations, or subtle pastel finishes—you’ll transform your space quickly and with professional-looking results.

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