You are currently viewing How to Apply Wax to Chalk Paint – A Guide for Beginners

How to Apply Wax to Chalk Paint – A Guide for Beginners

 

If you’re new to chalk paint, the thought of applying wax may seem daunting. But don’t worry – it’s an easy process! In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps of how to apply wax to chalk paint. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced painter, read on for tips and tricks that will help you create a beautiful finish with your chalk paint!

What is chalk paint, and why do people wax it? 

Chalk paint is a type of paint that contains a high percentage of lime. It creates a matte, velvety finish and is often used on furniture because it’s less likely to show scratches or dings. People wax chalk paint for two reasons: Seal the paint and give it a sheen.

Waxing chalk paint can be intimidating—wax is messy, and it’s easy to mess up. But when you do it correctly, waxing chalk paint gives your furniture a beautiful finish that lasts for years.

In this article, We’ll show you How to apply wax to chalk-painted furniture.

What is the best brush to apply Wax to Chalk Paint?

There is no definitive answer, as different brushes may work better for other people or projects. However, some general tips on choosing a brush for chalk paint can help you get started.

First, consider the size of the brush. Chalk paint is thick and difficult to apply with a small brush. Choose a brush that is at least 1 inch wide.

Second, consider the type of bristles. Natural bristles are generally better for chalk paint than synthetic bristles, as they hold more color and create a smoother finish.

Finally, consider the shape of the brush. A good brush for chalk paint should have a round shape with tapered tips. It will allow you to get into tight spaces and create a smooth, even finish.

When shopping for a brush for chalk paint, keep these tips in mind and choose the one that is best suited for your needs.

What type of Wax Should I Use?

There are a few different types of wax that can use on chalk paint. The most popular is beeswax, which has a natural yellow color and gives a soft sheen to the paint. Another option is paraffin wax, which is white and has a more complex finish than beeswax. Several types of synthetic resins can use.

When choosing a wax, It is essential to consider the desired finish and how much protection the wax will provide. Beeswax and paraffin waxes both have a low sheen and offer some protection against water and dirt. Synthetic resins usually have a high gloss finish and offer more protection against water and dust.

Choosing the correct type of wax and applying it can be a little tricky, but with practice, it becomes easy. 

Materials needed to Apply Wax to Chalk Paint:

-Chalk Paint

– Wax brush or cloth

– Container for melted wax

– Heat source (lighter, stove, microwave)

Howard Products Chalk-Tique Light Paste Wax – Soft Chalk Paint Wax
Howard Products Chalk-Tique Light Paste Wax – Soft Chalk Paint Wax
9.7
  • Protect and prolong the life of all your chalk-style painted surfaces
  • Enhances the chalk-style look of your project for a beautiful antique look
  • Chalk-Tique Paste Wax helps protect finish color from sun fade with a UV inhibitor
Colorantic | Furniture Grey Gray Wax Beeswax Waxes Paste Polishing
Colorantic | Furniture Grey Gray Wax Beeswax Waxes Paste Polishing
9.5
  • ALL PURPOSE PAINT AND FURNITURE PROJECTS – These waxes work smoothly on a variety of wood and furniture surfaces.
  • PREMIUM POLISHING WAX - Made of the best base products, our Colorantic soft recipe is such a high end one. Perfect & compatible with any chalk type paints. It is best on chalk style paints, milk paint, latex paint, and our waxes are used for Stencils, Artists, Crafters, Furniture Restorers, Interior Decorators and more.
Krylon K04217000-13 Chalky Finish Half-Quart, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1), Clear
Krylon K04217000-13 Chalky Finish Half-Quart, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1), Clear
9.1
  • Clear Sealing Wax provides low gloss protection when applied over Krylon Chalky Finish Paint
  • Clear Sealing Wax is ideal for decor items and varnished, previously painted, bare wood or metal furniture
  • No primer or prep needed
  • Ultra-Matte

How to apply wax to chalk paint?

Apply wax to chalk paint with the following steps:

– Apply the wax in light coats. Apply on one area at a time, and ensure no bare spots on your furniture.

– Apply the wax using soft cloths or a brush only. It is to avoid leaving any streaks on your finished piece. A common misconception about applying wax is using a lint-free cloth to apply the paint. Apply your wax with soft, lint-free clothes only, and never use brushes or sandpaper to apply the paint. 

– Apply the wax in multiple coats if you are unsure how much you need. After applying your first coat of paint, wait for one hour before applying your second coat. Apply another coat if necessary. But never use the color over two coats.

– Apply a third or fourth coat of wax once you are satisfied with its appearance and feel; this will make your finished piece look more realistic. Apply a fifth or sixth coat if desired. But never apply more than six coats to protect your furniture from water damage. Apply only enough wax to cover the surface of your piece; it is better to use too much than not enough.

After applying your final coat of wax, allow it to dry for 24 hours before using your furniture. Apply a light coat of wax every six months to keep your piece looking new.

That’s it! You now know how to apply wax to chalk paint. With these simple steps, You can achieve the perfect finish for your next painting project.

Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush Set, 2PC Oval and Round Chalk Paint Wax Brushes for Furniture Painting and Waxing, Home Decor, Cabinets, Stencils, Woods, DIY Art Crafts
Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush Set, 2PC Oval and Round Chalk Paint Wax Brushes for Furniture Painting and Waxing, Home Decor, Cabinets, Stencils, Woods, DIY Art Crafts
9.7
  • Protect and prolong the life of all your chalk-style painted surfaces
  • Enhances the chalk-style look of your project for a beautiful antique look
  • Chalk-Tique Paste Wax helps protect finish color from sun fade with a UV inhibitor
Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush 3PC Premium Set!!!! Large DIY Painting and Waxing Tool , Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush & Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush
Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush 3PC Premium Set!!!! Large DIY Painting and Waxing Tool , Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush & Professional Chalk and Wax Paint Brush
9.5
  • ALL PURPOSE PAINT AND FURNITURE PROJECTS – These waxes work smoothly on a variety of wood and furniture surfaces.
  • PREMIUM POLISHING WAX - Made of the best base products, our Colorantic soft recipe is such a high end one. Perfect & compatible with any chalk type paints. It is best on chalk style paints, milk paint, latex paint, and our waxes are used for Stencils, Artists, Crafters, Furniture Restorers, Interior Decorators and more.
Chalk Wax Paint Brush 5PCs set including 3 small paint brushes for furniture painting and 2 large chalk brushes, bristle paint brushes set compatible with Annie Sloan chalk paint
Chalk Wax Paint Brush 5PCs set including 3 small paint brushes for furniture painting and 2 large chalk brushes, bristle paint brushes set compatible with Annie Sloan chalk paint
9.1
  • chalk paint brushes for furniture Pack contains contain three small chalk paint brushes & Two Large chalk brush paint brushes Including one 1.00" Round Brush, one 1”00" Pointed brush or Trim brush, One brush of 1:00” Flat Shape and two oval shape brushes of 2" & 2.5"
  • These wax brush paint brushes are compatible with Annie Sloan Chalk paint for furniture, Rustolium, Pixie, Diy paint, dark wax, Rustoleum, Heirloom traditions paint, Amy Howard chalk paint, Rustoleum chalk paint, green chalk paint, Soft & dark wax for furniture

Things to keep in mind when waxing chalk paint 

 – Apply Wax in Thin Coats: Apply wax in thin layers. Apply the first coat of wax and wait for it to dry completely. If you are using soft clear wax, allow up to 24 hours for the first coat to cure before applying the second layer of wax.

– Apply Wax with Grain and Not Against It: Apply wax in the direction of the wood grain for a smoother coat. Applying wax against the grains will increase your chances of getting brush strokes on your piece.

– Apply Wax with Clean Brushes: Apply a thin layer of wax using clean brushes. Apply one even layer at a time and wait for it to dry completely before applying more layers or working on a different area.

– Buff the Wax to a High Sheen: After applying the desired amount of wax, use a clean cloth to buff it to a high sheen. Apply more pressure on curved areas and less pressure on flat areas.

– Apply Paste Wax for Best Results: For best results. Apply paste wax instead of liquid wax. Paste wax is thicker and will provide a more durable finish.

– Apply Wax to Newly Painted Pieces: Wait at least 30 days before applying wax to newly painted pieces. The paint needs time to cure completely before the resin is applied. 

– Use a Good Quality Furniture Polish: A good quality furniture polish can help protect the finish and maintain a high shine. Apply it once every few months for the best results.

– Apply Paste Wax in Thin Layers: Apply paste wax in thin layers. Allow up to 24 hours for the first layer to dry completely before applying additional layers of wax on top of it. 

– Apply Multiple Layers of Wax: Apply multiple layers of wax until you get the finish you desire. Apply one even layer at a time and wait for it to dry completely before applying more layers or working on a different area.

– Buff Wax With Clean Cloth: Use clean cloths to buff the wax after each application. Apply more pressure on curved areas and less pressure on flat areas. Apply one even layer at a time and wait for it to dry completely before applying more layers or working on a different location.

How to remove any excess wax from your project surface?

Working on a small section at a time, use the lint-free cloth to wipe away excess wax. Apply pressure as you work along the surface with circular motions until your project is completely dry and ready for display. When you are applying light-colored wax to dark paint, you may notice some staining left behind from the resin. It is entirely normal and will disappear over time as the wax cures.

Conclusion

That’s it! Waxing is a simple process that can change the look of your chalk paint. You don’t have to feel intimidated by wax. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to beautiful furniture in no time. If you still need more help with painting or want even more tips for getting creative with chalk paint products, check out our blogs for some inspiration.