Folkart Chalk Paint

Transform Your Furniture and Home Decor with This Amazing All-In-One Paint

Folkart Chalk Paint has taken the DIY world by storm! This versatile all-in-one paint goes on smoothly, dries quickly, and can be used to paint almost any surface imaginable without priming or sanding.

But like any popular product, there’s a lot of confusion and misinformation out there about the best practices for buying and using Folkart Chalk Paint. This definitive guide will teach you everything you need to know to fully unlock the limitless possibilities of this transformative paint.

What is Folkart Chalk Paint Used For?

Folkart Chalk Paint is an all-in-one paint formulated to be used on a wide variety of surfaces, from wood to metal to ceramic and beyond. It adheres to surfaces smoothly and evenly without requiring sanding or priming beforehand.

The unique chalky matte finish and velvety texture is perfect for giving furniture and home decor a timeworn vintage look. But it can also be used to paint walls, craft projects, outdoor furniture, and many other DIY renovations.

Some of the most popular uses for Folkart Chalk Paint include:

• Painting and refinishing furniture – Dressers, tables, chairs, cabinets, and more can be transformed from old and worn to looking freshly antiqued.
• Distressing & whitewashing techniques – The finish lends itself perfectly to chipping, sanding, and rubbing that creates a distressed cottage or shabby chic style.
• Painting terra cotta, wicker, metal & glass – Give worn terra cotta pots, wicker baskets, and glass jars a makeover.
• No-prep wall painting – Folkart Chalk Paint can adhere smoothly to walls without requiring primer.
• Kids’ crafts – The non-toxic formula is safe for kid-friendly projects.
• Outdoor furniture & decor painting – Give your patio furniture and outdoor accents a facelift.

In summary, if you can imagine it, you can paint it with this versatile all-in-one paint!

How to Apply Folkart Chalk Paint

No prep work is needed before applying Folkart Chalk Paint. Simply stir thoroughly before use and apply 2-3 thin coats directly onto your surface.

Recommended tools:

• Brush: A high-quality nylon or polyester bristle brush works best for smooth coating.
• Roller: Use a high density foam roller for quickly coating large surfaces like walls and ceilings.
• Sponge: Cut a paint sponge into sections for dabbing and creating texture.

Tips for applying:

• Apply in thin, even coats for the smoothest finish. Thick globs can crack or chip.
• Sand lightly between coats for distressing and to help remove brush strokes.
• For best adhesion on slick surfaces, scuff with sandpaper first.
• Always stir thoroughly before use as chalk paint can settle.
• Work in sections to avoid dry edges and overlap marks.
• Maintain a wet edge when working in sections to blend seamlessly.

With a little practice, you’ll find chalk paint incredibly easy and enjoyable to apply!

Where to Buy Folkart Chalk Paint

Folkart Chalk Paint and its complementary wax and sealer products are sold at major craft retailers across the United States and Canada. Here are some of the top places to buy:

• Michaels – This large arts & crafts chain carries the full line of Folkart paint and accessories. Every store has a section dedicated to chalk paint supplies.
• Joann – Similar to Michaels, Joann stores stock Folkart products in the paint department. Sign up for regular coupons and sales.
• Hobby Lobby – Folkart Chalk Paint kits and individual colors are sold here. They offer weekly 40% off coupons.
• Amazon – Conveniently shop the complete Folkart line online with free Prime shipping. Great for specialty supplies.
• Folkart website – Buy from the source! Folkart’s official site has every product and ships direct.
• Ace Hardware – Individual Folkart paints and waxes are usually in stock at Ace stores. Availability varies.

Check the Folkart website for a store locator to find all licensed retailers near you. And don’t forget to look for coupons to save on your supplies!

Is Folkart Chalk Paint Waterproof?

While Folkart Chalk Paint provides excellent coverage, it is not inherently waterproof when used alone without a topcoat sealer. The matte chalk finish remains porous and prone to water spots and stains.

There are a few ways to seal and protect your chalk painted surfaces:

• Apply 2-3 coats of Folkart Clear Topcoat Sealer for a crystal clear, water-resistant finish. Reapply annually.
• For furniture and accents, apply Folkart Clear Wax over chalk paint to seal and condition the wood. Reapply wax 1-2 times per year.
• If using outdoors, finish with a marine varnish or spar urethane sealer formulated for weather protection.
• For dishes, mugs, and frequent use items, seal with a food-safe water-resistant sealer.

Chalk paint is easily made water resistant with a top sealer suitable to your project’s needs. This allows the chalky matte finish to show through beautifully.

How Long Does Folkart Chalk Paint Take to Dry?

One of the huge benefits of chalk paint is that it dries remarkably fast, especially compared to traditional latex wall paints.

On average, Folkart Chalk Paint will be dry to the touch in just 30 minutes. The initial quick-dry means you can add multiple coats or start distressing usually within 1 hour.

Here are some additional dry time guidelines:

• Dry to the touch: 30 minutes
• Recoat time: After 1 hour
• Light distressing: After 1 hour
• Clear wax application: After 24 hours
• Cure time: 30 days

Drying time can be a bit extended in cooler and humid environments. A fan directed on the surface helps speed drying when needed.

The fast dry time makes project momentum easy. And the paint is highly durable once fully cured, so the quick dry doesn’t compromise quality!

Can You Use Folkart Chalk Paint on Fabric?

While Folkart Chalk Paint is formulated primarily for hard surfaces, one unique use for it is painting fabric and textiles thanks to its natural plant-based ingredients.

To use Folkart Chalk Paint on fabric:

• Wash and dry fabric first to remove sizing, dirt, and oils
• For best adhesion, stretch fabric over a frame or work surface
• Apply thin coats using a flat brush or soft roller
• Allow to fully dry between coats
• Heat set with an iron on high heat if needed
• Seal for washability with a textile sealer or medium

Some ideas for fabric chalk painting projects:

• Painting upholstery on chairs and ottomans
• Upcycling curtains, pillows, and tablecloths
• Adding color and designs to clothing items
• Painting burlap, muslin, and canvas for wall hangings

Chalk paint opens up so many possibilities for reviving tired old textiles! Follow fabric painting best practices and seal properly for long-lasting results.

Do You Need to Seal Folkart Chalk Paint?

Sealing chalk paint is an optional step, but it’s highly recommended for durability and to achieve certain finishes.

There are 3 main benefits to sealing properly:

1. Protects the finish – Clear sealers prevent stains, moisture damage, smearing, and wear and tear over time.
2. Achieves a glossy look – If you want glossy sheen instead of matte, a clear topcoat sealer provides shine.
3. Makes surfaces washable – Sealers allow you to gently clean painted surfaces with mild soap and water.

Recommended Folkart sealers:

• Clear Topcoat Sealer – Water-based polyurethane for acrylic protection
• Clear Wax – Plant-based wax nourishes wood and prevents stains

Apply 2-3 thin coats of sealer, buffing wax between coats. And remember to reapply protection annually for long-lasting durability. Proper sealing takes chalk paint projects to the next level!

What Colors Are Available in Folkart Chalk Paint?

One of the most fun aspects of Folkart Chalk Paint is the rainbow of beautiful colors available.

Folkart offers their palette in:

• 36 classic bold and pastel hues – From pure whites to deep graphite and rich emerald.
• 10 versatile neutrals – Grays, browns, creams, and black in warm and cool tones.
• 8 shimmer finishes – Opalescent sheens like mermaid, champagne, and azure.
• 3 metallics – Silver, gold, and copper metal-infused colors.
• 8 multi-surface neon brights – Vivid fluorescent pink, orange, green and more.
• Specialty kits – Unique combinations like coastal, romantic, and more.

With over 100 colors and effects, you can find perfect shades for any project. Folkart also makes it easy to mix custom colors.

Start with a Folkart color chart to envision colors before you paint. Their diverse palette is a chalk paint lover’s dream!

How to Remove Folkart Chalk Paint from Wood?

Thanks to its low-prep formulation, Folkart Chalk Paint can simply be painted over if you want to cover it up or change colors.

If you need to fully remove chalk paint from wood to get back to a raw wood look, it takes a little more work but is very achievable:

1. Sand thoroughly with 120-150 grit sandpaper to remove the top layer of paint. Focus on areas with damage.
2. Use chemical stripper formulated for dry paints to dissolve remaining chalk paint in wood grain crevices. Rinse thoroughly.
3. Clean with TSP – Use trisodium phosphate and a firm scrub brush to remove paint residue from the wood pores.
4. Sand again with 220-320 grit paper for a smooth sanded wood surface. Avoid over-sanding.
5. Spot clean with stripper, TSP, or mineral spirits for final traces in detailed areas.

With some targeted abrasion, stripping, cleaning, and finesse, you can completely return wood to its pre-painted state.

Is Folkart Chalk Paint Safe for Kids?

A major benefit of Folkart Chalk Paint over traditional latex paints is that it’s completely non-toxic and safe for kids’ craft projects.

Key facts about Folkart’s safety:

• No VOCs – Formulated without volatile organic compounds found in other paints.
• No odor – Has no strong chemical smells that irritate lungs.
• AP non-toxic seal – Certified by the Art & Creative Materials Institute as safe for children.
• Water-based – Cleans up easily with just soap and water. Minimizes exposure.
• Eco-friendly ingredients – Derived from natural chalk, clay and plant materials.

Proper precautions are still advised for kids:

• Use in well-ventilated areas
• Have kids wear old clothes, smocks and gloves
• Avoid contact with eyes and mouths
• Supervise closely to prevent accidental ingestion
• Wash hands thoroughly after painting

Let the kids freely explore chalk paint – it sparks creativity for budding young artists!

What Surfaces Can You Use Folkart Chalk Paint On?

Chalk paint’s versatile low-prep formula allows it to adhere well to almost any surface imaginable. Here are some of the most popular surfaces for Folkart Chalk Paint:

• Wood – Raw, stained, sealed, or painted wood. Great for furniture, cabinets, decor.
• Metal – Iron, tin, aluminum, wrought iron, brass, and more metal crafts.
• Glass, ceramics, terra cotta – Mason jars, vases, dishes, garden pots, and other smooth surfaces.
• Concrete & stone – Paint concrete crafts, garden stones, clay pots, slate, and cement statuary.
• Fabric – Upholstery, canvas, burlap, apparel, table linens, curtains, and more.
• Paper, cardboard, books – Crafts, book bindings, gift boxes, scrapbook elements, molded paper.
• Walls – Requires no primer for painting walls, ceilings, murals and more.

Painting plastic should be tested first for adhesion. Avoid painting flooring, appliances, or surfaces that get very hot or frequent abuse. Otherwise, go wild and paint it with chalk!

How to Distress Furniture with Folkart Chalk Paint

Achieving a timeworn distressed look is easy with Folkart Chalk Paint. The process involves breaking through the paint layers to mimic worn edges and surfaces.

Distressing techniques:

• Apply 1-2 base coats in your top color, then a contrasting tone for the second coat that will show through once distressed.
• Allow paint to fully dry then sand paint edges using 100-150 grit sandpaper. Sand lightly to avoid removing all paint.
• Use same sandpaper to rub off paint over raised edges, corners, hardware, ornate carvings, etc. React realistically like natural wear.
• Use a damp rag to further rub paint and create smudges, smears and unevenness in detailed areas.
• Use a paint scraper, skewer, or old credit card to chip paint along corners and crevices.
• Optionally apply a clear wax finish then continue distressing to mimic worn wax.

Take it slow and work in layers for natural vintage charm. The beauty of chalk paint is it’s easy to remove exactly where you want it. Distressing is 50% paint, 50% imagination!

Does Folkart Chalk Paint Need a Primer?

Unlike traditional latex paints, Folkart Chalk Paint does not require priming or extensive prep work to adhere well. The unique matte chalk formulation grips easily to most surfaces.

However, priming is recommended in certain situations:

• When painting over glossy surfaces – De-gloss first so paint can grip.
• For improved adhesion on metal, glass, ceramic, and other non-porous surfaces.
• If covering over dark colors with light chalk paint. Primer creates a blank base.
• When painting flexible plastic – Primer helps prevent cracking.
• For painting cabinets and high-use pieces – Adhesion and durability is improved.

Folkart’s Painter’s Gripper All-Purpose Primer is formulated specifically for their chalk paint when priming is preferred. But even without primer, chalk paint still bonds incredibly well in most applications!

Can Folkart Chalk Paint Be Used Outdoors?

While formulated primarily for indoor use, Folkart Chalk Paint can work beautifully outdoors with proper sealing for weather protection.

Here are some tips for using Folkart outdoors:

• Select bolder hues over pastels to maintain vibrancy in sunlight.
• Apply thin coats and allow extra dry time since moisture slows curing.
• Seal painted furniture and decor with 3+ coats of outdoor polyurethane. Reapply annually.
• For outdoor walls, use a chalk paint formulated for exterior like Folkart’s Color Shift.
• Avoid direct weather exposure until fully cured – keep covered with plastic sheeting.
• Touch up or repaint more frequently than indoor pieces due to sun damage over time.
• Consider a clear sealer like polycrylic for outdoor fabric and textile paint projects.

With additional prep and sealing, you can enjoy the beauty of chalk painted furniture and art outdoors! Just provide adequate protection from rain, sun, and moisture.

How to Clean Brushes After Using Folkart Chalk Paint

Cleaning oil-based paint brushes is a chore, but cleaning brushes used for Folkart Chalk Paint is delightfully easy.

Here is the simple process for chalk paint brush care:

1. Swirl brush in a container of warm water to loosen paint.
2. Work a small amount of hand soap or dish soap into the bristles.
3. Gently massage bristles between fingers to fully dissolve paint.
4. Swish in water again then press bristles against the side of container to remove moisture.
5. Reshape bristles and lay flat or stand upright to fully air dry.
6. Once dry, store upright or with bristles safely suspended.

With mainly water and a mild soap, brushes clean up like new! Proper drying and storage preserves brush quality for countless future projects.

Is Folkart Chalk Paint Non-Toxic?

As a pioneering brand in safe, artisan quality paints, Folkart ensures their popular Chalk Paint line is completely non-toxic and eco-friendly.

Key facts about Folkart Chalk Paint safety:

• Zero VOCs – No volatile organic compounds that are harmful to health.
• No chemical odor – Does not contain chemicals that create strong fumes.
• AP Certified – Sealed by the Art & Creative Materials Institute as non-toxic and safe.
• Water-based – Cleans up easily with just soap and water for minimal exposure.
• Plant-sourced ingredients – Uses renewable and sustainable raw materials.
• Safe for kids – Meets all standards for child safety and does not require ventilation.
• Produced in the USA – Made stateside in Folkart’s own facilities under strict quality control.

Folkart Chalk Paint allows DIYers to upgrade home decor safely with odorless, eco-friendly ingredients.

Can You Mix Folkart Chalk Paint Colors?

One benefit of Folkart’s water-based acrylic-like formulation is that their colors can be easily mixed to create custom shades.

Tips for mixing Folkart Chalk Paint:

• Stir paints thoroughly before mixing to evenly distribute pigments.
• Start by adding small amounts of the second color until you achieve your desired hue.
• Mix in a separate container – do not add paint directly to original cans.
• Use a plastic paint stick or wooden chopstick for stirring and mixing.
• Write down custom mixes you love so you can recreate them again later.
• Most colors mix well, but very light and very dark shades may muddy or overpower.
• Test on a spare surface before committing to your full project.

Unleash your creativity and achieve one-of-a-kind colors. Mixing allows limitless customization with the Folkart palette.

How to Achieve a Smooth Finish with Folkart Chalk Paint

While Folkart Chalk Paint’s signature look includes visible brushstrokes for a natural artisanal look, you can achieve a smooth even finish by following a few application tips:

• Use high density foam rollers instead of a brush to minimize visible stroke marks.
• Maintain a wet edge and work quickly to blend sections together seamlessly.
• Apply thin coats – thicker paint is harder to level out smoothly.
• Sand lightly with 220 grit sandpaper between coats to remove any bumps or dust particles.
• On furniture, sand and finish with multiple coats of Clear Wax for a glass-smooth surface.
• Work in a dust-free space – airborne debris leads to texture. Use tack cloth before coats.
• Allow adequate drying time between coats – recoating too soon over wet paint creates dragging.

Patience, proper tools, and purposeful techniques result in a beautifully sleek chalk painted finish when desired.

Does Folkart Chalk Paint Chip Easily?

When applied correctly, Folkart Chalk Paint cures to a highly durable finish that stands up well to regular wear and tear. Proper prep and sealing steps help prevent chipping.

To minimize chipping and flaking:

• De-gloss slick surfaces so paint can grip evenly. Scuff if needed.
• Apply thin coats and avoid thick globs that can dry too quickly and become brittle.
• Allow full 30 day cure time before use. Chalk paint continues hardening over the first month.
• Seal with Clear Topcoat Sealer and/or Clear Wax for added protection.
• Avoid excessive moisture during curing that can compromise paint adhesion.
• Touch up any problem spots as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
• Reapply protective topcoat annually or as needed depending on use.

With proper surface prep, application, curing time, and sealing, chalk paint finishes become delightfully resilient for busy homes.

How to Store Folkart Chalk Paint Properly

Like any quality paint, storing Folkart Chalk Paint correctly maintains optimal freshness and avoids accidents. Here are a few storage tips:

• Reseal containers tightly after each use to prevent air exposure and drying.
• Store at room temperature away from extreme cold, heat, or humidity.
• Keep cans upright to prevent leaking and keep paint readily mixed. Never store paint laying sideways or upside-down.
• Use within 1 year for freshest results, 2 years max. Write date of purchase on label.
• Keep away from children & pets in locked cabinets or high shelving to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Clean rim of can before resealing to maintain a tight closure.
• Designate used brushes so fresh paint isn’t contaminated. Never return brushes to original container.

Properly stored unopened cans maintain quality for 1-2 years. Follow guidelines for a long shelf life of this amazing paint!

Bring Any Surface to Life with Folkart Chalk Paint

Folkart Chalk Paint opens up a world of possibilities for all your DIY endeavors. With a little know-how, you can wield this transformative paint like a pro on virtually any surface.

This definitive guide equips you with expert insights on buying, using, and caring for chalk paint. So grab your favorite brush, and let’s revive some old treasures! With Folkart by your side, you’re sure to fall in love with painting all over again.