Cleaning Chalk Paint & Wax Brushes

[@noemidavila3992]

Another important tip on washing brushes is not to leave in water for long period of time. The glue holding the bristles will start to breakdown. Also keep brushes facing down as you rinse. Direct water flow into the base of the brush can cause bristles to loosen. Happy creating!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for sharing!

[@PrincessJazmina]

@Christina Muscari we definitely need an updated version of this video please!!

[@jankapf5807]

Another tips...you shall not turn your brush upside down when rinsing. Water shall not touch the glue where the bristles are. The same basically as makeup brushes. Second tip....I use nets to keep the shape of the brushes. You can buy them in bulks on Aliexpress or Amazon or ebay for few bucks. Search....brush guards.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for the info!

[@SuperChatica]

Maravilloso, muchas gracias. Una recomendación respetuosa, cerrar la llave mientras no se usa el agua. Mil gracias, aprendo mucho de usted.

[@nukapuka]

Lye soap is amazing. I was wondering for long time how to clean wax brushes. Thx😊. That was an amazing tip.

[@tammyhoffman124]

That was a great video with really good info. I like your videos because you don't push paint or products you use a lot of different ones.thanks

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I appreciate that!

[@jeffreybelanger3723]

Thank you for your time and giving these tips. Dawn is my go to for cleaning brushes. I just received my Waxine brush in the mail. I ordered one after last weeks tutorial. Have an awesome week. Be well! Oh the blooper reel is hilarious!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@jillb7234]

I’m so happy I watched your bathroom vanity make-over. I painted mine yesterday and it turned out pretty good. (My first time) Spraying the paint and brush was game changing!!! Thanks!!! I love your channel!!!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

That is awesome!

[@tsbmbrockify]

When I purchased my Annie Sloan wax brush, they told me to use hair conditioner. What are your thoughts. I’ve also picked up the Dixie Belle scrubby soap bar. I LOVE it. It’s $6.00 and comes in 3 scents orange, lemon, and lemon/lime.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Yes! I've heard that lately. That shampoo and conditioner are great for your brushes. Of course right after I published this. I might start doing that.

[@brianandtamiolson2330]

Your hair is cracking me up😂🤣😂My daughter wears her hair up on top like that all the time. She says it’s her causal “I Don’t Care I comfortable look”. You are such a beautiful woman so seeing the up-do, and your confidence shine makes me smile. Good info video👍🏼 Tami

[@ChristinaMuscari]

😁

[@razetw]

The best tip I've found to keep your brushes clean is to buy Floetrol. It is a paint additive that increases the open "working time" of any paint before it begins to dry triggering brush strokes. The secondary benefit (to me almost the 1st) is that if you pour some Floetrol in a cap, then dab your finger in it, and spread it around the TOP HALF of your paint brush (on both sides of course) and work it in, it will help prevent your colored paint to travel UP towards the handle. Paint your project as usual and when you go to rinse your brush, only the bottom half will be clogged and dirty and the top half (the hardest to clean) will look untouched and a BREEZE to clean. Haven't tested with wax + wax brush but with latex paint it prevents those pesky little bits that are stuck up near the metal housing. I also use several cheap plastic combs with different "teeth" distributions and lengths for different brushes. Thanks for the video!

[@roseannalopez8793]

Tip if your brush doesnt come with a case its easy to make one out of acetate, just cut to size really easy and will be long lasting😊

[@Not_InterestedThanksAnyways]

I've been looking for a video like this for a few days ! I'm only starting out ... this is so useful thank you 🤩

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nonyabidness1623]

Honesty is your virtue! Love the things you do!

[@suecox2308]

this is great--I've been wondering how brushes can be cleaned after chalk paint and wax and I've hesitated to use those materials for a couple of projects I have in mind. Now I can. Thanks.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad I could help!

[@jayc344]

Hi Christina 😁! Love this video. I've learned that if you sit your wax brush in mineral spirits for 5ish minutes and then rinse with a drop of dawn and warm water they are basically brand new, so soft and ready for the next project. Hope you and yours are doing well 😊👍!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for the tip. I try not to use mineral spirits on my brushes because it can really dry the bristles out.

[@jenniferrumsey9887]

Thank you!! This was super helpful - we just used Silk and I was putting off cleaning the Boss and Silk paintbrushes.

[@pamelalamping6874]

Chirstina, Ive been following you and Kacha and a few other chalk painters. I love the way you do your videos. I have a couple of questions. How do you know when a piece of furniture needs to be sanded, and or use a stripper? A lot of people say; no need to do anything with chalk paint.... just paint they say. Could you clear this up for me. New to Chalk Paint world. I havent even purchase any yet, however I have a saved list of the ones i want to try. Sincerely, Pam Lamping

[@ChristinaMuscari]

The majority of the time I only clean with a mild soap and warm water as prep. And yes, chalk paint can be painted right over a previously finished piece. I typically only sand a bit if the current finish is really glossy. I only use a stripper when I am staining. I hope that clears it up a bit. Thanks for watching!

[@ruthleonard3744]

Is it safe to wash chalk and acrylic paint down a residential sink? How long does it typically take the brushes to dry?

[@nukapuka]

I use white spirit to clean my wax brush. Not sure if ok but I think so as it should dissolve greace. Or pure turpentine?

[@chitrabhatt2303]

This is a very helpful video. I’ve kinda ruined my natural bristled brushes by not wrapping them in paper towel while drying. They’ve gotten spread out in a weird shape. But your video has helped me understand what I was doing wrong. Thank you again for posting this video 👍🏼🙏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@lindacard6662]

Oh the blooper reel! You made my day

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@lisacornett1563]

Thank you Christina! I’m working on my first chalk painted venture. I’m painting my china hutch. I took your advice and purchased 3 of the Zibra brushes you recommended in another video and purchased the Dixie Belle Mama’s Butta wax (orange grove scent). I will take your advice now for cleaning the brushes when I’m done. Can’t wait to share with you the before and after photos. 😊

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Wonderful!

[@rhondadorst3553]

Thank you, this is really helpful information.

[@kyrstiejoeellering7497]

Completely love your videos. Fixin' to wax my very first chalk paint project. I am so excited. Daughters dresser which is being given a second life as opposed to a trip to the dump. Think it's going to be Adorable and had purchased Lye soap from info in your video. Than you for putting the content out there and making us all feel like we can do it too! ❤️😁

[@sherrierichard2848]

❤excellent information and you are very articulate!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@amyjacob2100]

Lol. Love the bloopers at the end! Real life! Thank you for sharing your videos! I used to be kind of lazy about washing my brushes regularly, especially if using the same color for several projects. Thank goodness after a year of painting furniture, I’ve achieved better habits and now take better care of my brushes.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Thanks for watching!

[@foodislife3390]

How often would you clean your wax off your brush? Is it after every use?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I probably do it every third project or so.

[@jafallica]

Great video. How would you suggest cleaning paint brushes caked in dried-up chalk paint?

[@signthistoo7473]

How do you feel about mineral spirits to clean wax brushes?

[@divinerdetective44]

I'm wondering about any cumulative negative affect washing your wax brushes in the sink may have on your plumbing vs washing and rinsing them say in a small dishpan outside or some other alternate arrangement. You could always bring a couple gallons of warm water outside and do the job I suppose. Have you had any issues with washing in your sink over time? Thanks for the vid, very informative.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Good point. I've never had an issue, but I only wash them about once a month.

[@briannachristian9883]

What brush do you think would be best for Fusion Mineral paint? I don’t want to spend a ton of money but not sure if their brand’s synthetic angle brush is any better than any other synthetic brushes out there

[@kaye6118]

Thanx,Me, Kaye-Lee and Molly Brown needed that.🐕‍🦺🖌️🏳️‍🌈😊

[@lorilemere9088]

Love your videos! I am just starting on my first piece and using Amy Howard paint recommended by a friend. I am using dark base black. My friend told me NOT to wax it, because if you damage the piece with a chip etc., you cannot repaint it without sanding down. Just curious, what are your thoughts??

[@jonathanpersaud1100]

Thanks for the video very helpful. I have a question, I have a fairly new brush I used once and the metal parts looks rusty how to clean and prevent that. Thanks Shanny

[@ChristinaMuscari]

It shouldn't be rusting after one use. Did you hang it up to dry?

[@mollyweaver2335]

Thank you for this explanation! How do you keep your paint brush from drying while actively painting? I’ve been using matte and chalk paints and while I’m actively doing the first coat the bristles are drying and getting clumpy. Is there a way to avoid this?

[@Kindlyone777]

Did you get an answer to your question? I have the same question. Thank you 🌻🌸

[@bigkow105]

Normally with chalk paint they recommend keeping a spray bottle of water handy. Just spray the bristles a bit or the piece you are working on. This keeps from getting that "drag" so you get a smooth finish and helps with drying out. Hope this helps ladies!

[@Kindlyone777]

@@bigkow105 Ok thank you. Yes I remember seeing a tutorial with AS using a water spray bottle.

[@toodlerue]

How often do you clean your wax brushes? After every use? PS why does everybody have to recommend Dawn? I’m allergic to it!

[@jillwilson4977]

Hi! I used my zebra to paint on Dixie Belle Boss.. what’s the best way to get that off my brushes? Should I have used a dedicated brush for that? Thanks!

[@bonnielachapelle7118]

Hi , I have been told over and over again not to let paint go down the sink as it will damage your pipes. Is chalk paint and waxes different and does not damage your pipes?

[@christyarebalo848]

I placed an order from CodaArtisans on your recommendation. I got a waxine brush, the Lye soap, and other things as well. I got to use your discount code.....woohoo! Can't wait to try the brush!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Hope you enjoy it! That is awesome.

[@jessicacontreras1929]

How do you clean the shop towels after waxing?

[@eminehar1]

Thanks for the great demonstrations and detailed descriptions. Well done! Also really nice touch on what you used when you started, it’s a nice suggestion on how to dip your toes into furniture refinishing. I’m curious if you ever use your paint sprayer any more or if you prefer brushes, and why. Love your channel!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

To be honest, I haven't used the paint sprayer again. I want to. I just think it is more feasible for people to paint with brushes at home.

[@razetw]

@@ChristinaMuscari Agreed! Wagner sprayers are popular in america, but a brush is available in every country. Unless you are doing 100 spindle chairs, you have a lot of waiting periods when you do furniture makeovers. You can spray the piece...but you have to wait for it to dry...you spray it fast...but have to wait between coats...you can spray the top coat...but wait again between coats. Sprayers minimize brush strokes but hardly saves time on single pieces because of multiple drying times.

[@bonnysmith4908]

Can you use. A brush with paint after you use it with wax. Or is it a good idea to use a brush only for waxes only.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I have brushes specifically for Wax, that I don't use with paint.

[@loriseward4352]

Christina, you mentioned and demonstrated a round wax brush with a knob handle but I can't find where it is. Would you mind giving me some input on this and how I can purchase it?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

All the brushes in the video are in linked the description box of the video.

[@zsquire1]

You put out excellent videos! Your editing is awesome as well. Ty!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad you like them!

[@crystaljohnson5306]

Did you get a replacement for the purdy brush? Just curious if you still like it lol. I think I'll go with the zibra brushes for a smooth finish

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Yes and yes!

[@adripaez]

Hi Christina, can you recommend a wax brush that I can find at Amazon?

[@Strong_echo]

Thank you so very much for this video. Im always confused as to what quality brush to purchase and I thrown out good brushes from not thoroughly cleaning them🤭

[@ChristinaMuscari]

You're welcome. Glad it was helpful.

[@lilybecerra2035]

Ty so much for this video!!! I was mistreating my brushes 😯

[@marsha8767]

Have you chalk painted kitchen cabinets? I’m planning on redoing 25 year old kitchen cabinets. Also I’m told prepping is very important with older cabinets. Any must do?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

If you are looking for help choosing colors and finishes or a personal consultation for a project, I offer e-painting services. Check it out and see if you are interested. www.prettydistressed.com/online-refinishing-services

[@lisacornett1563]

Christina can you please explain the difference between the Jolie wax brush and regular brush. Can the regular brush be used for applying wax?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

The paint brushes are more flexible and the was brushes are stiffer and more dense so they apply the wax better in my opinion. You would want to use the same brush for paint and wax. They wax never truly comes off and it would affect how your paint goes on.

[@navjotsandhu8866]

Great video, helped me a lot,Its first time I'm going to paint headboard, excited but lil nervous.Do we have to clean brushes every time we use it?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

If you are just stopping between coats you can store your brush in a ziploc bag or wrap in saran wrap to keep it from drying out.

[@jo-joswelcomehomekollectio7274]

New Subscriber here. Is it okay to leave them soaking in water unTIL you can clean them properly?

[@nukapuka]

What do u think of make - up brushes? R they good quality for painting? The bigger ones that is.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I wouldn't recommend make up brushes for painting furniture.

[@nukapuka]

@@ChristinaMuscari Thank you. I thought maybe I found a secret😀. I didn't know what to think if it. I thought maybe they r better quality. I did buy one though, in TK maxx. The round legs of my table came nearly perfect. It is a thumb size brush and lovely. But as said. I'm inly starting out.

[@amandaweinraub2662]

I bought the Zibra brushes based on your recommendation and love them. Is the Jolie sig brush amazing? That’s the other one I want to try.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I love the signature brush! It's my go to natural bristle brush to get some texture or a classic chalk style finish.

[@amandaweinraub2662]

@@ChristinaMuscari Thank you. I’ll try it.

[@nicolewilcox2866]

I've been trying to find lye soap. Where do you get it?

[@valerie624]

Thank you so much for making this video! It was very helpful!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tdcarter1961]

Hi! Thanks for the tips. I just bought a Behr chalk paint brush. I have used it like twice and after cleaning, some of the bristle hairs just stick out kind of wild and it was an expensive brush for me, $27. I just don't know what to think about how it looks. I am tempted to return it. What do you think the problem is? I wish I could send you a picture.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I would try Zibra brushes if you are looking for something more affordable that holds up well.

[@karenmendez4780]

How often do you wash your wax brush ? Is it after every use ??

[@lydiar1549]

How long do you let either brushes dry before you use them again ?? I'm a novice to Chalk paint processes, though I have painted somewhat all my life.

[@ivanaspindler9459]

Hi Christina! I love your channel, it inspired me to get going with a few DIY projects of my own😉 l did notice that you were actually showing us how to wash the brush using Annie Sloan brush in the video, but you did not mention them at all as your favorite. I am just wondering if they don’t perform as well, or is it some other reason? Just curious really, especially as I just invested into Annie Sloan brushes 😔. Thank you

[@ChristinaMuscari]

They are still great brushes! And I obviously still use it. Personal I just prefer the Jolie brush right now. Sometimes my preferences will change. I like to keep using different kinds of brushes to keep y'all informed. Buying a AS brush is a great investment.

[@ivanaspindler9459]

Christina Muscari thank you so very much for your reply and information. Stay healthy and safe.

[@tinalonardo6371]

I love your videos and am planning to start my first project (dining room hutch) . I purchased the Annie Sloan brush, however haven't bought a wax brush yet. In your opinion do I need to use the same brand of wax brush or is it okay to use a different brand.? (more affordable)

[@ChristinaMuscari]

You don't need to have the same brand of brush as the wax. Any wax brush will work, or even a lint free cloth if you don't want to buy another brush.

[@tinalonardo6371]

Thank you! I’m going to try the one you have on your link!

[@donnagonzalez7657]

Where can I get brush prices? Please!

[@peggynally2937]

Is the wax your using water based?

[@janwilloughby1384]

Great info! Thank you!!

[@mercedescordoni9720]

How I can get rid of yellowish spot after white chalk paint?

[@blainestuart9784]

How long do your paint brushes typically last?

[@shanny-bird]

Hi Christina, I'm a newbie when it comes to chalk paint. Just started my first project and have already made a rookie mistake -- I wrapped my brush in plastic wrap rather than cleaning it between painting sessions. Thought it was only going to be a few hours and it turned into 2 days. Needless to say, my brush is now solid! Please tell me I can fix that......

[@razetw]

Leave it for a day or 2 in a can/mason jar with mineral spirits. But only immerse the bristles, not the metal housing or you will dissolve the glue that holds the bristles together. You could try other household items like dish soap and water, acetone/nail polish remover, diluted vinegar, etc, but mineral spirits will probably work the best. Use oderless and keep it somewhere away from people and pests and fire/heat. Cover it with plastic saran if you can or at least foil as best you can. You might want to wash it after 24 hours with soap and hot water, and stick it back in the mineral spirits for another day, and repeat as necessary.

[@shanny-bird]

@@razetw Hi Leo, Thanks for the advice. I haven’t had the heart to throw out my brush, so I’ll give the Mineral spirits a try.

[@jedimom7934]

Great information! Saving to my resource center. I had to laugh- if it's safe for little ducks is a statement I've used too!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Their marketing has stuck with me. 😂

[@nwatt8096]

Do you wax every piece of furniture you refinish?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Nope!

[@LivianaM]

Thank you!!

[@anngregory7508]

Very helpful! Thank you!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tonibeauford4200]

This was great information! Thanks!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@reginacummings1736]

Those are high quality paint brushes.

[@thatoldaner]

Awww he's so cute!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Right?! 😂

[@ashleyturner4483]

This was helpful thank u

[@patriciaeccleston9738]

How do you get dried chalk paint out of your brushes?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Make sure you try to clean them right away next time. You can soak them to loosen up the paint but don't submerge the whole brush. Just where the dried paint is.

[@kellymarsh4296]

Great video

[@frankeechecker]

Where did she get those blue paper towels?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Amazon. I also have seen them at Costco recently.

[@verlamcdonald7659]

Thank you so much for this video!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Brushedbymaddie]

Great video , I haven't cleaned my wax brushes in a while. I think is time now lol. The struggle is real lmao😅

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Right!!

[@MrsLyds]

Why some brushes have hair coming out and ruin my work 🤬 is it because of its cheap? Or do I do something? 😖

[@deniserentz7531]

Thanks! I have been waiting for this

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Hope you like it!

[@terridawson8530]

Do you have any updated discount codes or do the above stil work?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

They should all work. Let me know if they don't.

[@terridawson8530]

Thank you so much for your quick response. Have a great day.

[@belindaanderson4078]

Thank you so much! ❤❤🌷❤❤ I am doing it right. Yeah!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Wonderful!

[@bethmarie579]

Great!!

[@cardsaremycanvas9065]

Do you wash your wax brush every time? I rarely wash mine🙄

[@ChristinaMuscari]

I probably wash it once a month or about every three jobs.

[@munirhhussainibrahim2098]

Why you not wear hands cover

[@jenlawsoncreates8827]

My 4 yo just asked me for sandpaper so she could distress the dollhouse furniture she painted earlier today😁

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Yes!!!!!!!

[@trinadorner2037]

I have a brush for waxing. Do I need a separate one for big mama’s butta

[@emilyshenouda8542]

I was seriously going to message you about how you care for your brushes. This so timely!!!

[@ChristinaMuscari]

Perfect!

[@shivettsj]

I know you & Kasha appear to be buddies but competing live streams, man this furniture painting space is heating up.

[@ChristinaMuscari]

We actually typically tag team with our videos when we can. She encourages her viewers to hop over to my video after hers is over and I encourage mine to watch hers before mine.

[@MrKushmaster29]

You are NOT Suppose to just rinse these chemicals down the drain!!! . YOUR SINKS OR DRAINS ARE NOT FOR DUMPING

[@valbouskova1261]

I wonder why do you started to prefer Jolie's brushes? it seems to be total copy of Annie Sloan's brushes... another company which does not go its own way and just parasitize?

[@ChristinaMuscari]

The Jolie brushes are different from Annie Sloan brushes in a lot of ways. Really the only similarity is that they are natural bristle brushes which a lot of companies have now. I have Annie Sloan brushes as well. I just find myself reaching for the Jolie brush right now. Just my opinion. Everyone is free to make their own choices.

[@JulyRobbins]

Anyone else can’t stand the smell from a natural brush after cleaning it? To me it smells like a dead animal

[@ChristinaMuscari]

LOL. They do smell different.

[@MrKushmaster29]

Honestly how many people watched this video there’s a good number of them who went straight to the kitchen or bathroom sink... People like you Making these cleaning videos need to promote safe disposal... this crap runs straight the the Oceans