Annie Sloan · Learn & Create

Paint Techniques
& How-To

One tin of paint can create completely different looks. Smooth and modern, textured and aged, softly washed or full of character. Discover a few of the techniques that make Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ such a creative way to transform the pieces around you.

Painted dining table using Annie Sloan products
Real project inspiration

Start with what you already have.

A tired table, a forgotten bedside or a piece you no longer love can become something completely different with colour, technique and the right finishing products.

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Wax Brushes
The right tools matter
Annie Sloan creative project inspiration
Make it personal

There isn't just one
way to paint.

The way you apply Chalk Paint™, the brush you choose and the finish you add afterwards can completely change the final result. Experiment with brush marks, smooth applications, colour layering, waxes and decorative finishes until the piece feels like yours.

Annie Sloan painted furniture finish
01

Smooth & Contemporary

For a cleaner, more refined finish, apply thinner coats and work carefully with your brush to minimise visible texture.

  • Use controlled, even brush strokes
  • Apply thinner coats rather than one heavy coat
  • Allow each layer to dry properly
  • Protect with the appropriate Wax or Lacquer
Annie Sloan brush and wax technique
02

Textured & Characterful

Embrace visible brushwork and movement for a finish with more depth. This works beautifully when you want furniture to feel aged, expressive or full of character.

  • Work the paint in different directions
  • Allow natural brush texture to remain
  • Layer colours for extra depth
  • Use coloured Wax to highlight texture
Annie Sloan Clear Chalk Paint Wax
03

Protect with Clear Wax

Clear Chalk Paint™ Wax protects painted furniture while enriching the colour beneath. It is one of the classic ways to finish an Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ project.

  • Apply after the paint is dry
  • Work the Wax into the painted surface
  • Remove excess as you work
  • Allow the finished surface time to cure
Annie Sloan White Chalk Paint Wax
04

Soften with White Wax

White Wax can soften and lighten the appearance of colour while settling beautifully into texture and detail for a subtle, washed effect.

  • Beautiful over textured finishes
  • Softens stronger colours
  • Highlights carved or detailed surfaces
  • Perfect for a washed, aged appearance
The finishing touch

Waxes & Finishes

The finishing stage is where a Chalk Paint™ project can really change character. Protect your paintwork, enrich colour, soften a finish or bring out texture with Annie Sloan's range of Wax and finishing products.

Annie Sloan Clear Wax
Protect

Clear Wax

The classic protective finish for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™, enhancing the painted colour while protecting the surface.

Annie Sloan White Wax
Soften

White Wax

Add a softly faded quality, lighten colour and highlight texture with a subtle whitewashed finish.

Annie Sloan Wax Brushes
Apply

Wax Brushes

Work Wax into painted surfaces, carved detail and texture using a brush designed to help make finishing easier.

Your first project

A simple place
to start.

Every project is different, but this gives you a simple starting point. Always follow the instructions for the Annie Sloan products you're using and test unfamiliar surfaces before beginning.

01
Prepare Make sure your piece is clean, sound and ready to paint. Chalk Paint™ often requires minimal preparation, but the surface should always be suitable before you begin.
02
Paint Apply your chosen colour and technique. Keep the finish smoother for a contemporary look or introduce more brush texture for a characterful result.
03
Create Add another colour, distress selected areas, introduce texture or experiment with decorative techniques if your project calls for more personality.
04
Protect Finish Chalk Paint™ furniture with the appropriate Annie Sloan Wax or Lacquer according to your project and intended use.

Ready to start your own project?

Choose your Chalk Paint™ colour, then find the finishing products you need to bring your idea to life.

Shop Chalk Paint Shop Waxes & Finishes
Product suitability and preparation can vary by surface and project. Always follow the current Annie Sloan product instructions before use.