Chalk Paint Bargain v. Premium Brands | Waverly, Rustoleum v. Annie Sloan, Dixie Belle, Jolie

[@gidgetford6809]

I'm a Newby to furniture flipping. Idk about anyone else but deciding what products to use has been stressful. Knowing what to expect from these products is a life saver. THANK YOU SO MUCH.

[@karenguglielmo254]

Just saw this video..you're 4 months into it and I'm just starting and deciding what to use is overwhelming! How's it going for you?

[@vida3814]

😂 I am starting now and have exactly the same feeling, so many options!

[@HillaryGerhart]

It’s overwhelming..when to use what product and if it’s this material you can use this and don’t use this if xyz. I now have an abundance of sanding discs and hands tools and steel wool and strippers it goes on and on. I’ll be sure to use them all

[@lilylily9012]

I tried rustoleum after I was introduced to Annie Sloan. Annie Sloan in my opinion is by far the best.

[@karenlewis3950]

Thank you so much. I love to know the differences but it gets expensive to buy just to try. Really appreciate you taking the time to do these comparisons.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

You are so welcome!

[@pittpittenger6945]

Agree. This truly is a service to us also 💞

[@bonnietomlinson8876]

Great info. Thanks for your explicit demonstrations and filming. I love that you support Kacha. Women who have each others' backs are the best kind! There's room in the world for all voices with something good to say. Both of you have really helped me.

[@christinemcallister6681]

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[@noelenelovibond2638]

I love using the foam brushes to avoid brush strokes, but the tip is to dampen them first otherwise, whatever you are using gets absorbed by the foam.

[@valkyriesardo278]

The Sloan products remain the most pleasing to me, but I would rank the Dixie products Next Best based on this experiment. Sloan and Dixie both give the best even solid coverage just on the first coat. I want a paint that is capable of that coverage even if I only ever use it for various effects. I did admire the deep black of Waverly's Ink, but in general the other brands appeared uneven in the end result, looking blotchy or too sheer in some areas. I am a big admirer of Sloan's palette and am willing to make the extra spend for those colors. I suspect their particular beauty are linked to the chemistry of her paints.

[@audreywy1743]

My go to chalk paint is CeCe Caldwell's. I've been using it for over 8 years, I love it. My go to sealer is minwax polycrylic. I spray the 1st coat and then brush the 2nd. I also like Shabby Paints and their Vax topcoat. However, their containers are NOT airtight and I lost over 1k of products when we moved (transported to higher elevation and tops popped open)so that is something to consider.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Good to know!

[@judymcdonald7815]

Spraying the 1st coat then brush the 2nd is a great idea. I ruined a stencil brushing over it so this may be the solution. Thanks!

[@cadoo5591]

Just starting with chalk paint and have been scouring KZbin, thank you so much for this comparison video - it helps sooooo much. Glad you're a friend of Kacha, she's wonderful too!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

You're welcome! Love Kacha!!!

[@sophiamichael2788]

When I first started using chalk paint and was aiming for the quickest and easiest (no prime or sanding), I used a quick shot of Shellac spray to quickly cover a burn mark, water mark or stain, without having to sand it off. When you paint over and it doesn't bleed through.

[@rosieposie2224]

I use the Waverly Ink for all of my stenciling. Nothing comes close in pigmentation coverage. Wear gloves! As you mentioned, it will stain your hands. Loved this video!

[@gidgetford6809]

That's good to know. Thank you.

[@rjchavers9267]

I'm a huge Kacha fan. My best friend sent me your video about 3 am this morning before her work day started. She thought this would be helpful and she just sent me so much more considering how awesome you are for not only providing this video, but I feel like I hit the jackpot with your free chart. Thanks so much and I'm definitely subscribed now. ☺️👍

[@jane1385]

Just have to say that you almost always sound like your smiling or about to laugh in every video. Love it! Thanks for the videos too, very helpful!

[@fionalightspontaneous1924]

A hint when applying wax to dark colours like black, use black lint free material/fabric. The results are much better.

[@barrywuthrich8530]

I recently tried the rustoleum chalk paint to save money. I had to spray it on to eliminate brush strokes. But then I had a mistake and needed to sand it down to fix it. The rustoleum dries so soft it sands off with a couple strokes of sandpaper, while the Shabby Chaulk paint I use is 10 times as durable in holding up to the sanding. This durability factor is something you didn't test, but seems important, since furniture gets banged around some.

[@teresagiddenspaul2959]

Yes I agree, durability would be great info

[@bback4078]

So awesome of you to put together a comparison chart-thank you!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

You are so welcome!

[@emsmomma4606]

Hi there! I purchased a bookshelf from a second-hand store and used chalk paint for the first time! I purchased “Country Grey” by Rustoleum and a paste wax by Minwax. I can say that I am very pleased with the results in how this project turned out....dried nicely, very smooth! It took me a few minutes to get used to how thick it was vs traditional paint. Great video! I’m new to your channel, so happy that I stumbled across your way!

[@sarahcurrence7642]

Ok so this will probably run long... I was new to painting with chalk paint just about 2 or more years ago. So compared to a lot of other people I'm still new to this! I have never tried the Queen Annie Sloans so some may say I'm completely clueless lol. I'd love to try it and I will eventually but I'm a bit of a tight wad. So when Kilz and Rustoleum came out with a cheaper alternative I was pretty excited. Yet never had a project that really called for chalk paint. So when Waverly came out with a decent size bottle for under 10 dollars I was sold and found projects to do. Before that though I found a great recipe on Pinterest using paint, water and plaster of paris. So I started playing around with that in all different paints from cheap 89 cents craft paint. From flat to semigloss. You name the brand I've tried it. In all of my experiences with the diy plaster of paris mix its only failed me one time and that wasn't even really a disaster. Plus it was my fault and I just wasn't prepared for what would happen when you add baking soda to it! 🤦‍♀️🤣😂 It grew like 5 times in size!! It was weird but still technically worked and turned out ok. I blame that on youtube everybody was trying baking soda and all kinds of stuff I had thought about trying before I found plaster of paris. So I think it's worth mentioning I don't really do a lot of distressing on my projects so that may play a factor in my opinion. I mainly use chalk paint for ceramics, glass, metal, concrete, wood, and plastic. I'm usually trying to go for a faux concrete, marble and even terracotta look. So I like making my own because I can determine how think or thin per project. Now this gets to my point. Thank God😂🤣🤦‍♀️ I warned you! Waverly I have two go to colors I absolutely love Elephant and Mineral are my absolute favorites from Waverly. I love Mineral because it is a perfect grey when paired with more whites and blacks. It's also a very pretty neutral greige when paired with creamy white and tans. I love all the colors but I went with Maize yellow because I couldn't decide what to choose. I do not care for it at all! It takes so many coats and no matter if I sand first or any amount of prep work makes it easy to paint with. Not sure why? The color is great. The texture is the same but it always ends up peeling when I add the 2nd or 3rd coat. So after reading this thread maybe its luck of the draw. I recently got Kilz Toasted Poppyseed and used it on a dresser I didn't like it because it went on streaky and didn't level out great. Also I think I gave it a harsh review on the dresser because I have a lot black paint and P.O.P already on hand, I usually just make my own. Used it for a few other projects and it was great! I was glad because Kilz and Behr are in my top 5 paints. I have only used polys and Kilz sealing clear wax. I like certain ones depending how waterproof I need the item to be. The Kilz wax dosen't go on very easy but I put it on then buff it it off. Gets the job done and works. In the near future I plan on trying out the Waverly varnish and wax. I definitely would love to know more about chalk paints on fabric. Especially with the more affordable options. If you are new to chalk paint I recommend making your own to see if you like the look. Or the cheap Waverly samples. Also I prefer certain paints depending on the project. So don't think it was a waste of money it may work great on something else. Any advice on what to try next would be great. If you've been putting off that project thinking you needed an expensive chalk paint,you don't, go for it!!

[@Sillysillywithpearls]

Thanks for this! I am really new and doing a project calling for Mineral and Elephant by Waverly. So obviously Mineral is a go-to color and there is none in stock online OR within 30 miles of me at Walmart. Thanks to your review, I'll work on getting it somehow. I was ready to just get Rustoleum which I can get locally.

[@sarahcurrence7642]

@@Sillysillywithpearls Awesome! I'm really glad my rant could help somebody! Seriously I just remember everybody under the sun was using chalk paint for everything. I was so lost and just didn't know where to start and honestly, I don't even think back then I could find an affordable option. It was Annie Sloan or specialty brands. I really don't care what anybody says for the price point Waverly is amazing!! I recently got the tiny little sample bottles that are like $2.00. I thought I was getting the clear matte wax and the antique wax. The one all the DIYer's use on here, as stain. I was so excited to try the wax out but I accidentally grabbed a mini of the white. Which I was thinking would be as bad as the maize yellow color. Actually it's great! So if it's not a very big project you'd be surprised how far it goes. I've already used the mini white for like 3 small projects. Oh well crap once again I'm going on and on!🤣😂🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤷‍♀️ What can I say I get pretty excited about projects and really excited if I can save money and my project turns out just as good. If your not doing a piece of furniture and your just going to paint a few little things check and see if you can get the sample sizes in the colors you need. Even if you have to get a couple of them its 6 for the medium size and 10 or 12 for the large size. Then if you hate it your not out much. The plaster of paris recipe is really good too! Let us know how it turns out!

[@Sillysillywithpearls]

@@sarahcurrence7642 wow that's awesome to know thank you for that! I was so overwhelmed just driving 30 minutes to get the 8 oz of Mineral the other day I didn't notice if that Walmart had samples so I'm going to go back and check. (my local Walmart is frequented by lots of DIY'ers and is out of stock of all Waverly paint but a couple odd ones)

[@pearlperlitavenegas2023]

Hi what's the Plaster of Paris recipe?you use

[@terrypiercd2781]

I always water mine down to. It gives me a smoother look. I also make my own with plaster of paris. Love it so much more. Thanks for all the info

[@ChristinaMuscari]

That's great!

[@rufaidajavid81]

Could you explain the procedure

[@sarahcurrence7642]

I agree I've made my own a bunch. It's just so much more convenient for me especially considering I'm a paint hoarder.🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️🤣😂 I've used Plaster of Paris in flat paint to semigloss it always works perfectly. I really like using it with just like cheap craft paint. I have never had a project fail with my DIY chalk paint. I do like the Waverly paint just for the fact that they have really pretty colors one bottle goes a long way especially for the price point. Plus they have little minis so if you have a small project I highly recommend the little tiny bottle for just under 3 bucks. I say this because I have the medium size for about 6 bucks and one bottle has painted more small projects than I can count. With the exception of the yellow color called maize. I have had not great luck with it. It takes a lot of coats and when I add my 2nd or 3rd coat it starts peeling. Could be my fault or it could be old. Weird thing is I just opened it a few weeks ago. My other bottles have been opened for over a year now and it's like it gets better everytime I use it.

[@pearlperlitavenegas2023]

Please share your recipe for the paint Thanks

[@marilynthaxton3073]

I understand that the cost per 30oz may cost less than an 8oz but I have 2 reasons why I may choose the more expensive Waverly 1- I don't need 30 oz to sit until I have the time to use it. 2- many times I only have the $8 to spend on paint wax or top coat. It's called Hobby in my case not a living.. thanks so much for this video. Great info well done❤️

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Yep, I agree. You might end up saving money in the long run by using a smaller size instead of getting paint you don't need.

[@marilynthaxton3073]

@@ChristinaMuscari thanks your time to reply😁 looking forward to your new ideas...with the change in the season lots of new colors and style. 👍😁

[@laurennasca-davis7747]

Just painted my fiancé’s grandma’s old vanity with Waverly in Mineral and antique glaze on the top that gave a beautiful driftwood look! Doing our chest of drawers next!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

That is awesome!

[@cynthiafisher9907]

I’ve only used DIY chalk paint and it is very pigmented and natural, no VOCs. I enjoyed watching this, thanks! I’ll have to check out your other videos, you did a good and fair job with the comparisons.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lzrd8460]

I really appreciate all your work in showing us the differences between these brands. I live in Europe and cannot find many of the American brands or they are too expensive to order online so I stick with my homemade chalk pant. My biggest problem is finding a decent topcoat/varnish. They never look right and I've given up on them and use wax only now. Thanks again for all your prep work. It's great to see the results of different brands and different covering.

[@Danceswithfishes]

I didn't know that you can make your own chalk paint 😳😃

[@jacquelinemccully912]

Wow! What a great video comparing all of these products. Next time, it would be so helpful to see the different sections in the light so we could see the brush strokes that were left. Thanks for sharing your talents and expertise with all of us.

[@GigglyGirlPearl]

I am just starting out researching paints, methods and finishing coats to refurbish a French Provincal dresser. This information is vastly informative (Thank You!) and will save me a lot of time and money. I think, from your demonstration, that I will go with the Dixie Bell for my first project.

[@loriclemons8640]

Thanks for all the info. I am actually going be doing my first chalk paint project on an oak coffee table I had. Tried to sell it but no luck and to good of a of a piece to give away. Heard about no prep work with chalk paint as far as sanding & such so this is why I chose chalk paint for this project. After researching & watching a few videos I decided to go with Annie Sloan products. So much to choose from but after watching this video I think I am going to be happy with my choice…wish me luck!

[@ortizle1]

I am so happy I found your video. I purchased a dresser that I wanted to paint for my bathroom. I already know I want it in black but had no idea on which way to go. Thank you so much for doing this video.

[@captainleabea4197]

Thank you Christina, so informative, interesting and honest ! I am about to redo a hall stand I bought from an auction 23 years ago when I was 17, and is my pride and joy, so I want to do it justice. Liked and subscribed, looking forward to watching your other videos.

[@hafizshariff6710]

I'm redoing my entire apartment with second hand furniture, and watching all of these vids for the endless tips!

[@MsGlory1love]

How has your redoing been so far?

[@stephi586]

Not to step on anyone’s toes. But all you need is 1 cup latex flat paint, baking soda and water to make your own. Or you can use 1 cup latex paint, plaster of Paris cold water and the directions from google. You have your own chalk paint without spending over $15.00 for little jars of it. I spent so much money on chalk paint until I found out how easy it is to make. I can now make it under $15 for a pint.

[@nahidmovassaghi5496]

Hello , i can not find description box!!!

[@sandraolson1022]

@@stephi586 wow! thanks for the info. I will definitely try that. :)

[@rebeccabarfield6621]

Me too!

[@tammyjohnson7401]

Thank you. I have only tried Rust-Oleum chalk in country grey and linen white. Yes they are rather streaky at first but dries good. I would like to try Annie Sloan on a table that's in sight for redo. Very interesting paint choice project. I also have Behr chalk paint wax. I like it but I'm not a huge fan of wax. Thanks again.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Great info. Thanks for watching.

[@mariatgualda]

I’ve only used the Annie Sloan paints. They are lovely to work with. Did a full wall of duck egg over my desk area in the kitchen. Did the rest of the cabinets in Old White. You’re correct, in that AS wax darkens their paint colors. I wish I’d had this video then. Plus I find that I have a sensitivity to her wax. Wish I could post a photo.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Duck Egg is one of my favorites!

[@jaybee8094]

Great video Christina. I have a small planter that I want to chalk paint white but have hesitated because of the cost of the chalk paint. You have made it so much easier for me to make a decision. Also the chalk paint brushes are pretty pricey also so I have been weighing that too. Please keep the tutorials coming.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

You just inspired me to do a battle of the brushes next!!! Thanks for watching.

[@jenniferly23]

I’m a Jolie Paint convert! I used to buy the Rustoleum paint all the time because I thought all chalk paints were created equal. WRONG! So WRONG. I bought Jolie after watching your bed frame makeover. Jolie is AMAZING! I will never use anything else!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

That is awesome!

[@LeslieKailVillarreal]

@@ChristinaMuscari Question! I bought the Rustolem Charcoal, painted my chest and looks pretty chalky not a solid gray. I'm wondering if that is the case with all chalk paints or just this brand? Could I put a 3rd coat of something like Jolie over it?

[@chareast9997]

thanks so mchuch for the price chart. i am very visual and never would have understood or retained all that great information with out it

[@teextranaremos3231]

Thank you so much for your time explaining the different paints. Can't wait to find and paint furniture piece !

[@marilynthaxton3073]

I love the Rust Oleum paints. It covers nicely. I recently found the oops at Lowe's and Home Depot, Wow was I hooked. If I lived closer I'd be a "Oops stalker" waiting for missed tent. 🤭. Not alot of admired colors but l use it as a under coat if I don't want as a finish coat. Well worth $2 . Thanks for the wonderful video ❤️

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@lindamega6094]

I bought a piece of furniture that had been previously painted yellow with distressing. It is a small 2 piece hutch. I used an off white Rustoleium spray paint. I wish I had painted it on. I don't do alot of this, but the spray paint seemed to take too many coats and I felt I was wasting the paint. Next time I will paint it on. Thank you for the video. I should have watched it before I painted. But I think I will like my piece when it dries completely.

[@tonyaclaxton9169]

Thank you for this update on paints, wax and so forth. Its nice to see the comparisons

[@tinyrealtor1478]

You don't know how much this has helped. You helped me win over my husband on the colors I want to use to transform our bedroom into farmhouse style.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Yay! Glad I could help.

[@tinyrealtor1478]

@@ChristinaMuscari I went out and got my Waverly chalk paint! I hope I can do almost as well as you!

[@jeanneranee]

I’m just starting to get into re-doing furniture for my new apartment and your videos have been so so helpful to me!! I’ve never used chalk paint, so your comparisons have been fantastic

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I'm so glad!

[@wildfire294]

Thank you for a great video. Very informative! I've only used Waverly at I'm just starting out. I like it pretty well because there is hardly an odor. Was curious of higher priced chalk paint, so this helped.

[@kval1015]

I used the Rust-Oleum Linen White for a set of cabinets I got for our basement Reno project. I am sealing them with Easy Peasy Spray Wax because the cabinets are not going to be used for actual kitchen use. I enjoyed working with it and glad to see you added it to this to the comparison!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Nice!

[@marietamura4534]

Thanks for doing this. I've just purchased the Rust-Oleum varnish and paint. It fit my budget for right now and I was able to find it. Really helpful info over all. As my budget allows , I'll definitely try the others.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Nice!

[@PoliticalJunky101]

Thanks for posting this video. This is very helpful re performance vs price. I have used both Annie Sloan and Dixie Belle products and they are definitely comparable paints. I like the Annie Sloan Clear Wax because it deepens the colours and makes them look rich. Dixie Belle is a wonderful paint and just glides on. I find I have to use more water with Annie Sloan. It's a thicker paint. Both have great coverage though. The Rustoleum Matte Clear is awesome. I used it on my bar and it seems to be holding up well but that could be because I don't have a sink at the bar, so that could be the reason why.

[@peggyt1243]

Being frugal, I am too cheap to pay for brand name chalk paint. I get a custom color sample jar done to my liking and then make batches of chalk paint by adding plaster of paris.

[@shannon9544]

Me too!!!

[@karenguglielmo254]

I'm a newbie to all of this so thank you so much for these comparisons! Paints are so expensive so this was a big help!

[@tiarrabiggs]

I love Waverly paint. My second favorite would be Rustoleum Chalked. I actually mixed Ink with a blue and got the perfect navy color. I applied a pinch of gray though.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Sounds beautiful!

[@tiarrabiggs]

@@ChristinaMuscari Thank you

[@jadebethj4807]

This sounds lovely, I’d like to try the restoleum coastal blue!

[@tiarrabiggs]

@@jadebethj4807 If you try it please let me know how it turns out.

[@missybackues6811]

This video is so helpful!! Thank you! Getting ready to pain a dresser black for my daughter’s college apartment therefore hoping to use less expensive paints. I appreciate this comparison very much!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

You are welcome.

[@loridrennan9819]

The General Finishes matte topcoat is my absolute favorite, especially over white!!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I really like it, too.

[@gracetogrow7433]

Mine too!

[@amypoole30]

I think you did an excellent and thorough job with your comparisons.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thank you!

[@aleksarobinson5885]

Thank you for your effort to put all this materials together!! I had the very same problem with waverly top coat over gray. I thought its up to me. I used it on other colors before but not with this kind of problem over and over! I loved waverly but will not use it any more.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@gcarraig]

Interesting video. I’m blending chalk-based paints with encaustics for my larger encaustic paintings (to save time and money), and this was very useful. It also confirms my suspicions about the premier brands’ greater compatibility with encaustic paints, as they do not use acrylic mediums like the more economical brands, and acrylic does not play well with heat. Bad for my wallet, but much better for my work. Another thing I would say: no matter what your craft or art discipline is, be creatively promiscuous and go broad when researching. I have no immediate interests in painting furnishings, but this was exactly the right info I was looking for. Also: yes! Wet your chalk paint. Part of the creative process is to know when to take the manufacturer’s recommendations and throw them out the window.

[@maryjflanagan1922]

I liked the Waverly Ink with the Dixie Belle clear coat.

[@karlaguidry9013]

Just tried to paint a small chest of drawers for my husband, spent hours pin striping the front and top. Used all Waverly products which seemed to do well UNTIL I put the matte varnish which dried to a grainy mess! Totally ruined it and will now need to be stripped completely. I’ll not try to skimp on products again and will stick to reliable Annie Sloan.

[@valerie624]

I enjoyed this video! I used the Rustoleum paint once when I first painted something in my house but have found that my favorite is the Dixie Bell. Right before we started social distancing/quarantine I got a headboard/footboard of of Facebook Marketplace for my older daughter. I painted it with Dixie Bell but had some Rustoleum wax leftover so I used that and I really liked it. It went on nice and it looks good!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Awesome! I love it when people mix brands and get good results.

[@Cink66]

I water it down too! It doesn't take away from the coverage and it improves the performance of the paint.

[@jragnes]

Waverly elephant paint reactivated with clear wax as we as polyacrylic for me. I believe its a paint issue. It completly wrecked my sign and I had to sand off, recut my stencil and start over. I was not impressed and really upset.

[@sandralevy5965]

Its nice to have a comparison! Thanks for all the info!

[@DaisyDee9]

Very informative and simple. For a beginner like me, that's a lot of helpful info. Thank you for doing this vid. Most of all, I liked your no-non-sense, keeping to the point commentary.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@xplore_with_tans]

Hi Christina, Big hello from Dubai, UAE. This was very informative especially when most of these brands are not available out here and we have to make do with what we have. Will definately give these a try

[@zhansayabulegenova358]

Ohhh Dubai fell! Did you find some nice paints?.. Ace's prices are crazy high or is it just me?

[@kemaila]

This was SO helpful! I’m an aspiring furniture flipper/refinisher, investing in supplies for the first time. It seems from this video like the quality of the top coat is almost more important and can make a nice undercoat look bad or a so-so undercoat look great! Thanks for your very helpful videos! 😁

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@timellis9293]

Adding plaster of paris to paint will make chalk paint. Have been doing this for a few years now. I get oops paint all the time from home depo and lowes and make some really cool finishes with it. Takes a little practice with the amounts but if you have a small project you can pour into a mason jar the paint you need and just add a little at a time until is starts to turn to a pancake batter and is very thick, then just add water until it thins down. I dont do this with oil base only water base paints.

[@ginamartineggebrecht8405]

Thank you, Christina. I, too, spritz a little water when I use Waverly, especially. I had an issue with Minwax Polycrylic topcoat pulling up Waverly paint when I refinished a bookcase. It was such a pain!!!

[@Carolina-ln7bi]

Gina Martin Eggebrecht I had the same problem with the wax (I used the Waverly wax) pulling up my Waverly chalk paint. The next piece I painted I waited even longer before waxing and it did not pull up my paint.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Interesting, it sounds like the Waverly has a longer dry/cure time then.

[@jragnes]

I've found that the Waverly ink and elephant paints smear badly with any type of top coat. Very frustrating!

[@AngieWilliamsDesigns]

This was helpful. Thank you for sharing. I do have my favorites for different affects. I also have recently started using an HVLP sprayer and LOVE that. I started off with Art Minds and American from Hobby Lobby or Michaels. Then added waverly in. Waverly is fine but color selection locally isn't the greatest and it's just ok. Then I discovered Miss Mustard Seed and loved it. Then I got tired of the issues that come with mixing paint because I was doing more jobs and bigger jobs. I switched up to Dixie Belle and of course... loved it. LOL. I also use the Rustoleum Chalked and General Finishes Milk Paint. And more recently I've fell in love with Fusion. I just love love love it. Every time I use it I can just tell a difference. Really loving it. I'm still trying different finishes though. Currently using General FInishes Flat Out Flat because it sprays SOOOO good. I bought some Rustoleum water based finish and will be trying it out soon as well.

[@glendadunbar1504]

Thank you for these comparison. You answered some questions I had.. Like is it worth the price ... And yes it usually is 👍😎

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@magicgordo4878]

With very little effort and some searching most of these "chalk" paint formulas are similar. The raw materials, some from lab sources and some from the earth (calcium carbonate and titanium dioxide) are sourced world wide with price, a contributing factor. The overall result is more the skills of the applicator and the prep. We have seen sales pitches for one "paint" or another that literally promise that no prep is needed with "our" brand of chalk (like) paint. Any of the chalk paints cover well with two coats again depending on the skills of the applicator. A small tip here: Chalk paints are waterbourne. a few drops of water on a new or clean flagtip synthetic brush will make for ease of application. Also, think about a start point in a room generally the corners and the crown are painted first. The rest is filled in using SOP methodology. "Lay it on-Smooth it out and tip it off" and don't scrub! Paint! Coverage with any paint or coating is never a done deal no matter what the sales pitch implies. Yep, we have an example. Any red paint over white with one caveat. Ferrari has a red paint that covers perfectly but sadly it is not chalk paint and even if it was the only way to get it would be to buy a red Ferrari. We think this would take a bunch of flipped furniture. We segue into other coverage and switch from the transparency of red to the opacity of black. Most black paints are pigmented with carbon black.. Great stuff! Covers in many cases with one coat. Same with other Grey or Grey-green colors. There are other blacks as well in the form of reasonably inexpensive tube acrylic artists paints. One is "Bone Black". A smidgen of this cut with a little water in a measure of chalk or any other waterbourne makes a fine Ivory color. Today's bone blacks are made in the paint lab. Tabby and Fido are not at risk. Enough for today. Gurniture to flip before I sleep.

[@savvyconsumer7342]

Best chalk paint is your favorite regular latex paint and whatever call paint recipe you like. Can be made in batches as needed. Colors are numerous. These brands here are super expensive and li.ited in colors. Curing your piece will limi t the paint lift when adding ding top coat. Brush strokes can be eliminated by light sanding. Always let layers dry well in between coats.

[@terrisanchez2516]

AWESOME INFORMATIVE VIDEO! Saved me LOTS of time and money trying to figure out what to work with. I have previously painted with Annie Sloane Chalk Paint. I really like it but am still working on techniques. Been wanting to try Dixie Belle too.

[@courtneymiller9805]

The rustoleum chalked spray paint is really good and dries very smooth. We also use the spray matte clear as well.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Love both of those products!

[@RedBilyeu]

I just refinished my dining table. I used general finishes walnut stain on the top and Jolie noir on the base and chairs. Top coated with general finishes high performance flat. It turned out beautiful. Was the first time i used Jolie paint and I loved using it.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

That is awesome!

[@janellebrammer]

I am new to Chalk Painting. Just wondering how the two paints held up to wear? Is one more durable than the other? Love the comparison. Thanks

[@marilynthaxton3073]

Hey Janelle Bram, I read your question about Chalk Paint and I find it holds up well inside as well as outside.I If using outdoors you should wax or clear coat. But even then I would use on porch. I'm not a pro on anything except thinking I am and wanting to be... LoL 🤭. I have used chalk paint, as well as many different brands and on different surfaces. ... and still recommend using under shelter in the outdoors.😁

[@Gggi1987]

Thank you for sharing these very helpful trials on paint products; I really enjoy your videos! I’d love to see Debi’s Design Diary Chalk and Mineral based paints added in your future lineup. Though her paints are pricey like some tested in this video there are no strong odors, no VOC’s so I’m thinking less or not harmful to the environment. I’d love to see your take on painting with that line with your thoughts on performance. Thanks again!

[@carolynlunel9382]

I use only DIY paints now..I love them! Painted my kitchen cabinets white swan and they turned out beautifully! I think DIY sealer primer,paints, and topcoats are definitely worth the price.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Great suggestion!

[@britneygardner4550]

I really love that you provide these comparisons!!! My question is how do you clean your brushes and/or do you have a video over that?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZzCdaauntd9lZI

[@marypolancodesigns]

Brilliant video! I just started painting furniture and this answered pretty much all my questions. I've done comparison videos too and they are no easy task so thank you for doing all the work for us! New subbie

[@nikkic0509]

I water down all my chalk paint too. I’m a big fan of Waverly Elephant. I’ve used it a few times.The Dixie Bell Grey is very nice. Thank you for this video, it helps.

[@juliekeehnast9350]

I LOVE Annie Sloan and have done several pieces with it. It had been the only Chalk paint I’ve ever used. A couple months ago I decided to try Rustoleum in Linen White and their Matte Clear top coat because of cost (and my stockiest wasn’t open due to COVID). I wasn’t impressed and was very disappointed with the end results. After watching this video I realized why. It was the top coat! I have yellowing and it took up the paint in some places so the pieces I used it on look very streaky in some places. So thank you for this video! I now know that I really didn’t do anything wrong and I can use a different top coat or wax if I decide to try their paint again.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Great feedback- thank you!

[@dawnbutcher9286]

Hi Christina, I am not a painter at all and really have never used paint because seem to make a mess with it, however I have an oak table and chair that I would like to attempt to paint. I am wanting to do the table white and the chairs black. I will be adding the buffalo plaid black and white cushions to the chairs. What is the best colors/brands do you recommend as well as brushes and top coats to use on dining room table and chairs? I no nothing at all! Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you

[@cathyolague9408]

One of the things I also noticed myself, when comparing Annie Sloan to a craft store chalk paint, the Annie Sloan paint sands down smooth like a baby's bottom, the competition gummed up like a latex paint would so it's no good if you are going for that worn down weathered look.

[@debbigosdin-burke5996]

I have decided to re-do my Very Large bedroom set in Metallics. Silver,white and gold accents, (not bright gold, more muted. Since the furniture is so large I'm concerned about how the metallic will do on large surfaces ie: sides of Armoir, portion of headboard? Suggestions on paint to use, keeping in mind lots of paint needed so 8oz. jars aren't going to go very far. LOL Opinion of large flat areas metallic, streaking? Hoping to hear back from you, love your energy.

[@seanreidy1420]

Thanks, great video. Regarding your cost comparison, I just wanted to note that Dixie Belle comes in 32 oz which is cheaper per ounce that the 16 oz container listed in your price comparison. For an apples to apples price comparison container size will matter!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Good point! You save per ounce when you buy the bigger size.

[@Tinyteacher1111]

This was extremely informative and helpful for me right now, as I’m redoing some furniture pieces. I just subscribed to your channel, and I have a feeling it will be a very good resource. I will check out your cabinet video as well. Some of the furniture I’m redoing is white, but I’m accenting with some colors, so I’ll look for videos dealing with colors. I’ve used Dixie Belle before, and it was fine, but I’d really like to try out Annie Sloan’s paint. Thank you so much for putting this together and providing links. Truly appreciated!!!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for subscribing! Best of luck with your furniture projects!

[@mcallaghan7681]

I really enjoyed the color comparisons, too. One black was more charcoal, the other was true black. Same with the blues and greys. Not necessarily better or worse, but I'd definitely pick the ink black for detailed stenciling, and would go with the more charcoal one on large pieces because it's not so harsh/stark. I'd love to see more large swatches of colors over white and wood tones. Thanks.

[@autumnmcclain5839]

I have been using Waverly Chalked Paint. But I will be looking for Annie Sloan and Dixie Bell. I have been looking for Rustoleum for months since the Pandemic began, and I cannot find it anywhere.

[@2Blessed]

I've tried about 5 different brands now, and I always come back to the Waverly. You just can't beat that price, in my opinion! I'm working on some projects right now and decided to try a brand called Retique It, and it is pure crap! I really wish I had bought Waverly for my current projects, and I think I'll never buy anything but Waverly going forward. Thanks for the video!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I really like the Waverly paint too!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I really like the Waverly paint too!

[@carolinaibanez9617]

Try Autentico chalk paint, they have a line where you do not need to wax, it has a special finish that’ll work even outdoors.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@sashawalls2357]

This information was so so helpful! You're the best❤

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for all your support, friend. ❤️

[@sashawalls2357]

@@ChristinaMuscari always❤

[@l.a.w.79]

Wait!!! You mentioned odors. I got a $17 dresser. I cleaned it thoroughly and it still SMELLS. I mean I painted it and it works for how I’m using it but dang it stinks. So I am on the lookout for another dresser!!

[@michellecatrambone9175]

Just get shellac over the whole piece, the smell will disappear

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Michelle is right! Shellac is great for blocking odors. And Dixie Belle BOSS, too.

[@jessicamcelfresh4223]

This was amazingly helpful and the chart to boot. Props to you girl. You are a blessing! Lol Keep up the beautiful work!🤟

[@christyarebalo848]

Another great video Christina......I'm going to pick up some Waverly Ink. Can't get over the color of it.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Have fun!

[@ericdorsey2262]

Christina, fantastic video, love all the comparisons, getting ready to paint over kitchen cabinets that are cheap white MDF - milk paint/chalk paint - both will work ok right? Considering using General Finishes milk paint and a strong clear coat for them - Enduro Clear - as they take lots of abuse in the kitchen - thoughts? I will be sanding in between coats to remove brush strokes. Also, a tip maybe, but you might know - lots of experience finishing my furniture I build, and I've switched to a water-based sealer they use on guitars and floors as it sands SO much easier than shellac, which gums up and is so frustrating to use. Take my advice, the water sealer works so much better, sands into powder easily. great videos!

[@MK-ih6wp]

I have been to all the Walmart's in my area and Waverly is gone. They replaced it with their own Walmart brand generic chalk paint that is terrible compared to Waverly. I am very sad - Waverly was my FAVORITE - great coverage, awesome color selection, and an unbeatable price.

[@prettypeachcosmetics8653]

I use Debi's design diary paint (diy). It's a clay based paint. I love it and won't use anything else. I would love to see you use it some time ;)

[@HawaiianSkies]

What is that? I think she has a You Tube channel? Where do you get that paint?

[@prettypeachcosmetics8653]

Yes Debi does. But I get my paint from Jamirayvintage.com I found the paint because of Jami. Debi is the creator of the paint.

[@HawaiianSkies]

PrettyPeachCosmetics good for Debi! Thanks!

[@prettypeachcosmetics8653]

@@HawaiianSkies your welcome

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Great idea!

[@karenalbero7665]

I'm late to the party, but I am so grateful for the comparisons. I just used Behr for the first time, love it. I am a huge fan of Waverly, not so much Rust Oleum, I don't like the coverage, and it does not distress well!

[@carolesolen7638]

Thank you so veryyyyy much for all your helpful comparisons!!!!! Is it better to seal my Waverly Ink color with a dust free cloth & Waverly Clear Wax???? I don’t really want a shine. I’m going for the Matt finish. Thank you again.

[@r.c.miller6161]

Affordability can become an issue. Waverly does the job well for the price.

[@Naparuski1]

Omg I just found you and I ABSOLUTELY loved the info in this video! Its going straight to a share on my page! Thank you for the all the info and I look forward to watching more of your videos ❤

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thank you for the kind words.

[@Rita-yw2tn]

I’m with you I have to water my Waverley paint because it’s a tad to thick in my opinion anyway .

[@MrJanmanish]

Thank you so much for taking the time to demonstrate all the different paints. This is my first time doing a project like this and its overwhelming with all the choices. I will be painting a dresser for my daughters room. She moved down south and I want to do something special in her room when she visits. I like the Annie Sloan paints but they are so expensive. I am leaning towards the Rustoleum. I wanted to paint the base at a grayish, top coat off white, distress, dark wax over for a rustic/vintage look, followed by a Redesign prima decal Overflowing Love or Hopeful Wishes.. What are your thoughts ?? And, do you need to put a clear coat of wax over paint, wipe off, and then do the dark wax ?? And will I need to do clear coat when done.. ?? THANK YOU SO MUCH

[@ChristinaMuscari]

If you are painting just a dresser, you could get away with getting the 16oz cans of Dixie Belle. It's the same price as the Rustoleum but you get less paint but it will be enough to finish the piece. Just a thought. I think the decals would work better with DB.

[@MrJanmanish]

@@ChristinaMuscari OK.. Perfect.. thank you so much.. I look forward to more tutorials .. =]

[@sea4598]

This is my first time trying furniture and I have been watching your video's. I think I may want to try the Rustoleum Linen White. We are looking for a white white for a beach cottage look. We were going to try to do white washing not a solid so I guess just thin the paint out more? We do think we want to see a bit of the grain through the wood. The pieces have solid wood on the edges and plywood center. I have sanded them. I am just not sure of do I prime? do I shellac first? so many ifs. They are twin headboards and with possible kids bouncing around after they are painted do I put something over the paint to make it more durable? Is there a better paint for this project? Like I said just so many questions. It doesn't have to be flat and can be a satin so it can be washed off even could be even better. Do you have any good tips for me?

[@susiebabendure]

Very helpful video comparing paints. Could you do a video with stencil techniques? I am having issues with feathering and bleed through. THX

[@missswilkes]

Fusion is hands down my favorite chalk paint!

[@louisestewart-brown8785]

Hi. I am thinking of using Rustoleum Chalked Paint on a sofa. Would you recommend this product for fabric please?

[@sarahcurrence7642]

Great question!! That's a video that needs to happen. We all know you can use the queen of chalk paint, Annie Sloans for fabric but what about the rest?? I want to paint a chair with rustoleum charcoal so bad but I'm scared too! 🤣😂