Getting stuck into a new painting project can be a fun prospect, but brush painting can be a tedious and time-consuming task. Plus, using a brush can leave brush marks, uneven layers, and an ugly bumpy finish.
Using paint sprayers can help save time, but can you use chalk paint in a sprayer? We break down the facts below.
Can You Use Chalk Paint In A Sprayer? (Benefits Explained)
Chalk paint creates a lovely velvet matte finish on projects both big and small. Whether you want to upcycle a picture frame or give large pieces of wood furniture a facelift, there are many ways to use chalk paint in DIY [1].
It’s common for DIY fans to use chalk paint on side tables, cupboards, doors, frames, and more. But can you put chalk paint in a sprayer? In short, yes!
Using a sprayer rather than a paintbrush with chalk paint can bring plenty of benefits, such as:
Curious to know how to save time and get beautiful results? Follow our step-by-step guide.
How To Spray With Chalk Paint Step By Step
Materials:
Steps:
- 1Prep Your Item
Before getting to painting, you need to ensure that your desired project is ready to go. This involves doing various maintenance tasks such as cleaning, sanding, repairing, and taking it apart. - 2Set Up The Space
Make sure to pick a large, well-ventilated area with plenty of space. Set up your sprayer tent according to manual instructions and cover your floor and any items in the room with drop cloths or tarp.
At this stage, we recommend putting on your protective gear if you have not already done so. - 3Set Up The Space
Make sure to pick a large, well-ventilated area with plenty of space. Set up your sprayer tent according to manual instructions and cover your floor and any items in the room with drop cloths or tarp.
At this stage, we recommend putting on your protective gear if you have not already done so. - 4Thin The Chalk Paint
Set up your paint sprayer according to manual instructions. Once you are ready to go, you can prepare your paint to go into the sprayer.
Most paints are quite thick and would have a difficult time moving through a paint sprayer without getting stuck. Luckily, it is easy to thin your chalk paint with water as it is water-based.
Here is a quick guide on how to thin paint for sprayers. Take note of how much paint you have used in the measuring cup, and add between 10 and 20 percent water a little at a time, stirring with your stir stick as you go.
We recommend lifting some paint up into the air on your stick and pouring it back into the cup; if you can see what looks like a worm shape, the paint is too thick. - 5Filter Your Paint
This may seem unnecessary, but filtering your paint is vital to achieving a smooth, even finish. Debris, air bubbles, and dried paint can accumulate in the paint pot and block your nozzle.
To avoid a lot of pain while working, filter your paint into the sprayer using a disposable filter or flour sifter. - 6Test Your Sprayer
The final bit of prep before painting is to test your sprayer. Loading your sprayer up and painting on some scrap cardboard or paper allows you to ensure that the sprayer works properly and has the correct settings activated. - 7Get Painting
Now it is time for the fun part. Apply light, even coats to your entire object in slow, deliberate movements.
These thin and even coats will lead to an even quicker drying time while saving paint. Once done, leave your paint to dry for 1-2 hours and repeat for the required number of layers. - 8Add Distress Detailing (Optional)
If you want a more distressed or shabby chic look, take a rag or sandpaper and wear down some of the painted areas. A popular way to do this is to sand the edges and near the corners. - 9Clean Your Sprayer
Once you are happy with the paint job, we recommend cleaning your paint sprayer. Take your sprayer apart according to manual instructions and clean any areas touched by paint with soap and water before leaving to dry.
This process should take 5-10 minutes depending on if you're cleaning an airless sprayer or an HVLP gun. - 10Apply A Topcoat or Wax
Once your final layer is dry, you can move on to the last step. Applying a top coat or wax finish ensures that your hard work lasts longer and minimizes wear and tear [2].
We recommend applying your desired final finish with a paintbrush before leaving it to dry for at least 24 hours.
Chalk Paint Spraying Questions
What is the best paint sprayer for chalk paint?
This depends on your budget and what you have access to in your local area. Some quality paint sprayer brands to consider include Wagner and Flexio, among others.
Consult customer reviews and potentially ask a customer representative for individual product information.
What is the best chalk paint to use in sprayers?
Most chalk paints should work in sprayers if they are adequately thinned and prepared. Some common chalk paints used in projects like this include Homeright, Rust-Oleum, and Annie Sloan, among other brands.
Conclusion
Can you use a paint sprayer for chalk paint? Yes, with the right tools and preparation. With our tips and methods above, you should be able to paint any item beautifully while saving time and money.
No stress and a smooth and quick application are possible with the right paint sprayer and a little forethought.
References:
1. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/painting/what-is-chalk-paint
2. https://www.diybeautify.com/2017/01/top-coat-protection-options-for-chalky-painted-furniture.html