When you’ve finished painting something, it’s important to think about how you’ll protect your finish. Chalk Paint™ has great sticking power and can be applied to most surfaces, but it needs to be protection. In most cases, Chalk Paint™ Wax will do. It is strong enough to withstand general use and can be cleaned gently with a damp cloth. But if you’ve painted something in a high traffic area or for outdoor use, you should think about using a varnish instead.
Chalk Paint™ Lacquer is a water-based polyacrylic varnish. You can apply it directly over Chalk Paint™ for a hard-wearing finish on pieces like dining room tables, kitchen cabinets, floors and skirting boards. With built-in UV protection, it’s also perfect for outdoor furniture. It goes on perfectly clear and dries quickly without yellowing over time. For a matt finish, choose Matt Lacquer. Alternatively, for a higher shine and an even stronger finish, choose Gloss.
Chalk Paint™ Lacquer can be applied with either a Sponge Roller or a brush, the choice is up to you. Either way, be sure to mix the Lacquer thoroughly before starting.
How to Apply Chalk Paint™ Lacquer with a Sponge Roller
- Mix the Lacquer thoroughly and decant some Lacquer into a roller tray.
- Load the roller with the Lacquer. Squash the roller down to remove excess Lacquer – too much Lacquer can give a slightly opaque, whitened look.
- Roll the Lacquer onto the piece of furniture, moving in every direction and making sure every part is covered in the Lacquer.
- Finish the edges off with a small brush, making sure not to leave any drips visible.
- It’s crucial to not overwork Lacquer as this can give an uneven finish.
- Apply a second coat as soon as the first coat is dry (about one-two hours depending on the climate).
How to Apply Chalk Paint™ Lacquer with a Brush
- Mix the Lacquer thoroughly and either decant some into a tray or apply straight from the tin.
- Brush the Lacquer on lightly, moving the brush in every direction to make sure every part of your piece is covered.
- Once you’ve applied a full coat of Lacquer, create a smooth finish by feathering the wet Lacquer with a flat brush. This is done by holding the brush at a 90° angle to the surface and very lightly brushing up and down. This will remove some of the larger brush marks, but is not essential to the finish.
- Apply a second coat as soon as the first coat is dry (about one-two hours depending on the climate).
Now you’ve applied two coats of Lacquer – whether rollered or brushed on – your paintwork should be fully protected. Your varnished piece will be safe to use immediately once dried. Bear in mind that Chalk Paint™ Lacquer can take up to two weeks to fully harden (known as curing), so do be careful with it until then. When destined for outdoor use, make sure it stays out of prolonged rainfall until two weeks after application.
Once you’ve followed this tutorial, you should feel confident about attaining a lasting finish with Chalk Paint™ Lacquer. Your beautiful paintwork will be protected and should withstand the wear and tear of daily life, be it indoors or out. As soon as you’re ready to try this technique out for yourself, be sure to get all the materials you need from your local Annie Sloan Stockist and support a small independent business in your community.
