Chalk paint has been taking the DIY furniture transformation world by storm — you don't have to sand or prime before using it, and its matte finish is easily layered and distressed.
Sharon from Elizabeth & Co. loves the look of chalk paint, but is on a tight budget, so she found the perfect recipe to get that chalk paint look without the chalk paint price! Her version comes out smooth and matte like the real thing, and is easily distressed and sanded down without peeling or fraying. And even better — you can choose any color you need!
Sharon used a Behr paint and primer, and simply mixed in some plaster of paris and water until she reached a good consistency. After painting her piece, she finished up with a sanding sponge, and applied some wax for a smooth finish and a bit of extra protection. Here's her finished piece:

Go see more photos of the finished product, as well as the recipe for her success!
Read More: Elizabeth & Co.: How I Make Chalk Paint
CHALK-PAINTED FURNITURE FROM APARTMENT THERAPY'S CLASSIFIEDS:
• For Sale: Hand Painted Union Jack Dresser
• For Sale: Vintage Window Turned Modern Coffee Table
• For Sale: Hand-Painted Modern Sideboard
(Images: Sharon from Elizabeth & Co.)


White Enamel Flatwa...
I love it!!! The great thing of making your own too is that you can expand the colors from what is offered.
I completely agree with good time charlie and this paint substitute works wonderfully
This works equally well with baking soda!
I made chalk paint using this recipe with some leftover Sherwin Williams satin paint samples. The piece came out lovely, but I'm not giving up my Annie Sloan Chalk Paint any time soon. In addition to durability and coverage, the great thing about ASCP is the lack of prep beforehand and the lack of mess after. The DIY version requires more prep and clean up.
I have tried many different recipes for chalk paint and found them very clumpy and messy. I just can't bring myself to pay $36.95 for 1 quart on Annie Sloan. This recipe was awesome. Also to get that aged look I bought minwax clear finishing paste wax, added minwax stain and it was wonderful Anohte Annie product that is very expensive. I'm just a happy camper now!!! Thanks
if you don't add the stain, is it a good idea to use polyurethane ore is there no need? I am concerned about the wear and tear on the top of the table.
mjwhite11
Can I paint unfinished wood with this and then do something with Modgepodge on it? Anyone know?