Chalk Paint™ wasn’t just created for vintage, distressed looks. You can also easily create an authentic mid-Century modern look by applying the paint smoothly. By using a Flat Brush and lightly feathering, you can easily banish brushstrokes altogether.
In this tutorial, Annie started by mixing a mid-Century colour – a lime green made from a mix of English Yellow and Antibes Green. Next, it’s time to apply the paint. The secret to creating a flat finish is in the application – use a light touch, feathering as you go. You want to keep the brush at roughly a 90º angle to the surface. Your best friend here will be an Annie Sloan Flat Brush – you can use a large brush for larger section and a small brush for any details.
If the surface isn’t smooth to start with, you can use a sanding pad to remove any unsightly lumps and bumps or texture. You can also sand lightly after painting to smooth out any brush marks before waxing.
Step by step guide to painting a smooth finish
- Use an Annie Sloan Flat Brush and charge it with Chalk Paint™. If the paint is feeling thick, you can dilute it with a little water.
- Paint your surface as smoothly as you can, keeping the brush at a 90º angle and feathering the paint as you go. The feathering, which is like sweeping the paint very lightly with the tip of your brush, will help minimize any brush marks.
- Once touch dry, apply a second coat if necessary, brushing lightly in every direction to reduce brush marks.
- Once fully dry, you’re ready to apply Chalk Paint™ Wax to seal in the paint. For an ultra flat finish, you can also sand the surface with a fine Sanding Pad before waxing.
By painting with a very light touch, you can create a smooth, flat finish with ease. If you’re finding the paint a little thick, dilute it with water to help it go on even more smoothly. You can also sand lightly when done, too. After painting, seal indoor furniture with Chalk Paint™ Wax. On floors, seal with Chalk Paint™ Lacquer. Watch the next instalment in this tutorial to learn how to create a smooth finish with Wax.
