Do I need to seal chalk paint?

Yes, chalk paint must be sealed with furniture wax or a clear polyurethane topcoat to protect the finish from moisture and wear. Wax provides a soft sheen while polyurethane adds more durability.

Can chalk paint be used on kitchen cabinets?

Yes, but you must seal it with a durable polyurethane topcoat rather than wax for cabinets, as they receive heavy daily use and need protection from moisture and grease.

Chalk PaintGenerating image…

Paint & Primers

Specialty

$15-$45 per quart

Chalk Paint (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated May 15, 2026|Sources & methodology

Chalk paint is a decorative furniture paint that creates a distinctive velvety, ultra-matte finish with excellent adhesion to most surfaces without sanding or priming. It is the go-to choice for upcycling furniture, painting cabinets, and creating vintage or farmhouse-style finishes. The thick formula covers well and can be distressed for an aged look.

Key Features

Ultra-matte velvety finish
Minimal surface prep required
No sanding or priming needed
Easy to distress for vintage look
Excellent adhesion to most surfaces

Specifications

Applications

Furniture refinishing
Kitchen cabinets
Picture frames
Home decor items
Accent furniture pieces

Installation Overview

Clean the surface with mild soap. Apply chalk paint directly without sanding or priming for most surfaces. Use a quality brush or roller for even coverage. Apply two coats. After drying, seal with furniture wax or clear polyurethane. Distress edges with sandpaper for a vintage look.

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ No sanding or priming required
✓ Unique matte finish
✓ Easy to distress
✓ Excellent adhesion

Cons

✗ Requires wax or topcoat seal
✗ More expensive per coverage
✗ Limited to decorative applications
✗ Wax finish needs periodic renewal

Top Brands

Annie Sloan

Rust-Oleum

Code Requirements

No specific code requirements. Follow manufacturer guidelines for surface preparation and topcoat application. Ensure adequate ventilation.

Buying Tips

Start with a small project to learn chalk paint technique before tackling large pieces. Invest in quality chalk paint brushes for the best finish. Seal with polyurethane for high-use items and wax for decorative pieces.