Chalk Paint Review: Annie Sloan on Thrifted Chairs and a Table Makeover

I finally tried chalk paint — and since a lot of readers asked if I would test Annie Sloan’s product, here’s a clear, practical rundown of how it performed on two thrift-store chairs and a repurposed table.

Design options and the final choice

John and I brainstormed several finishes for a small table we’d cut down and two $8 thrift-store chairs we found in West Virginia. Our considered options included:

• red chairs with a white table
• red table with white chairs
• navy table with red chairs
• navy table with white chairs
• one red chair, one navy chair, and a red table

In the end we settled on wood chairs with red backs and a white table. It was John’s idea — though a reader later suggested the same configuration, which felt like a funny coincidence.

Testing the setup

We had a hunch the table and chairs would be useful in the sunroom, and they were immediately popular with Clara. The furniture added a new level of function and charm to the space, and her pajamas even coordinated with the room’s palette.

Why I tried Annie Sloan chalk paint

Initially we considered buying a cheap test pot and doing the usual sanding and priming. Then I remembered a small sample of Annie Sloan chalk paint we had on hand from a conference goodie bag in the color “Emperor’s Silk.” Annie Sloan chalk paint is commonly praised for minimal prep, so I decided to give it a try. Note: chalk paint is a flat, chalky finish similar to milk or clay paint — it is not the same as chalkboard paint.

Preparation and painting process

I brought the chairs into the sunroom, wiped them down with a liquid deglosser to remove any grease or residue (standard practice for thrift finds), and opened the sample pot. I painted the backs of both chairs using a short-handled angled brush for more control, free-handing the edges carefully. If you prefer, you can tape off edges for extra precision.

The chalk paint has a relatively thick consistency and provides excellent coverage; it took about ten minutes per coat and two coats in total to achieve solid, even color. I let the chairs dry in the ventilated sunroom with the sliding door open, since there is a noticeable odor while the paint is wet.

Sealing: the step I didn’t expect

Here’s an important point: while chalk paint often requires minimal surface prep before painting, it typically needs a sealing step after it dries. A few days after painting, the chair backs felt dry but chalky; a finger swipe left a white mark. That’s because chalk paint is porous until it’s sealed. With Annie Sloan’s recommended process, you apply a finishing wax to seal, protect, and enrich the color.

I didn’t want to buy a whole tin of wax for two chair backs, but a friend had leftover Annie Sloan wax and let me use a small amount. I applied a thin, even coat using a clean sock as an applicator. Tip: avoid applying the wax too thickly, since thick wax can remain tacky and take longer to cure.

My verdict on chalk paint

Chalk paint performed well: coverage was strong, application was straightforward, and the finish looked great after waxing. However, because you still need a finishing product (wax or another sealer), I questioned whether it actually saves much time or effort compared with the traditional route of deglossing, priming, and using a durable paint. In short: I liked Annie Sloan chalk paint, but it didn’t dramatically change my painting routine or make the process effortless. It’s a solid option, especially for quick makeovers and textured matte finishes, but not necessarily a life-changing product for everyone.

Table refinishing details

The table top was stained and the finish was peeling underneath, so we gave it a quick sanding followed by primer and paint for durability. For this project we used Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White in a semi-gloss formula built from their Advance line, which is formulated for a hard, furniture-like finish and holds up well to wear.

Placement and next steps

We’re still deciding whether to tuck the table under the window or pull it onto the rug. For now we’re living with it both ways to determine which layout is most functional. The playroom / big-girl room is coming together — we estimate we’re about a third of the way through the plan, and it already feels much more inviting than when it was stuffed with storage overflow.

Final thoughts

If you’re curious about chalk paint, try it on a small piece first. It’s easy to apply and produces an attractive matte finish, but remember the finishing step — whether that’s wax, lacquer, or another sealer — to protect the surface. For this project, the red-backed chairs are a success: they look great, they’ve held up so far, and they made the room instantly more usable and cheerful.

What have you painted lately? Have you experimented with painting only the top or the back of a piece? Did you tape it off or free-hand? Have you tried chalk paint, and did you find the waxing step worth it? Share your experience — different methods work for different projects, and it’s helpful to compare notes before you commit to a technique.