Dry-brushing is a popular painting technique that is often used in conjunction with chalk paint to create a variety of effects. With this technique, you can add depth, texture, and dimension to your piece, giving it a unique, aged appearance.
Before starting, make sure the surface you will be painting is clean, dry, and free of any debris. If the piece has a glossy or shiny finish, you may want to sand it down slightly to provide a better surface for the paint to adhere to. We recommend removing any hardware, and you can fill any dents or scratches with wood filler and sand them smooth before painting.
Apply a base coat of chalk paint in the color of your choice. When applying the base coat, be sure to spread the paint in thin, even strokes, making sure to cover the entire surface. It's also important to apply the paint thinly and evenly to prevent drips and ensure a smooth finish.
Choose a second color of chalk paint that will complement the base coat. This color will be used for the dry-brushing technique. Pour a small amount of the second color into a container or paint tray.
Take a clean, dry brush and dip the tip into the second color of paint. Be sure to only dip the very tips of the bristles, so that only a small amount of paint is applied.
Press the bristles against the inside of the paint can or container to remove excess paint, then use a paper towel or rag to wipe most of the paint off of the brush. You want the brush to be nearly dry, with just a small amount of paint left on the tips of the bristles.
Using a light touch, gently brush the surface of the piece with the dry brush. Use long strokes that follow the grain of the wood, and be sure to leave some areas of the base coat showing through. This will create a subtle, textured effect.
WATCH DEMONSTRATIONContinue to apply the dry-brushing technique with the second color until you achieve the desired effect. You can add as much or as little of the second color as you like, depending on the look you are going for. For those who want to experiment a more or add a bit more character, add a third color to dry-brush on.
If you want your piece to look like it's been around the block a few times, now is your chance to distress it. Grab some sandpaper or a foam sanding pad and focus on areas that would naturally see wear and tear, like corners and edges. Now, your furniture will have that perfectly worn-in look.
Check out our recent article: How to Distress Furniture ~ Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide
Once you have achieved the desired effect, allow the paint to dry completely before applying a sealant. A clear wax or polyurethane can be used to protect the surface and give it a finished look. A dark wax will give your piece an aged look, while a clear wax will ehance the color of your piece. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the top coat and make sure to use a clean cloth to buff it to a smooth finish.
The dry-brushing technique with chalk paint is a simple yet effective way to add texture and dimension to your painted pieces. With a little practice and experimentation, you can create a variety of unique and interesting effects that will make your furniture, picture frames, and other decorative items stand out.
How to: Smooth Chalk Paint Finish If you love the look of chalk painted furniture, but want a smoother, more modern finish with minimal brush strokes.
Chalk Painting 101: For Beginners Chalk painting tips for beginners that will help you better understanding the process of painting furniture.
How to: Chalk Paint Recipe For those who appreciate the vintage, soft, matte look and feel of chalk paint, but don’t love the price.
How to: Make Your Own Soft Wax Make your own custom DIY clear wax for less than 80% of the price of well known brands, using non-toxic ingredients.
How to: Care For Your Brushes Your natural bristle brushes are an investment and you want to learn how to properly care for them.
Prep, Clean & Maintain Your Brushes This exclusive ebook guide is available to customers who have purchased one of our brushes. Includes bonus Tips & Tricks.
Distress Furniture With Chalk Paint In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of distressing furniture with chalk paint, from start to finish.
Priming Before Chalk Painting Understanding the pros and cons of priming before chalk painting furniture and understanding bleed-through solutions.
Clean Chalk Paint Brushes How to properly clean chalk paint brushes after each use to maintain their quality and prolong their lifespan.
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