How to create a two colour distress using Chalk Paint®

Annie shows you how to create a two-colour distress using her signature technique and two colours from the Chalk Paint® palette!
Annie Sloan developed her unique and versatile decorative paint, Chalk Paint®, in 1990. She wanted to create one paint that could achieve several different techniques and finishes - from creating a textured chippy look to achieving a smooth modern finish, or even creating a wash. Annie's paint has minimal VOCs and is very easy to work with. There's no need to prime or sand before starting - you can just get stuck straight in to the fun bit!
Visit www.AnnieSloan.com for more tips and inspiration.

[@karensabolcik2511]

Wow! From the colors you chose (I would have never thought in the beginning of this video the chair would turn out so beautiful bc of the bright color initially!) To how you sanded - your extremely artistic! Thank u so much for sharing your talent!

[@kan4932]

Annie is such a lovely lady! I love the way she explains her techniques. She has literally changed the way I look furniture now.

[@AnnieSloanHome]

It all boils down to sharing my passion for style and colour. I want to inspire everyone, yourself included, to get creative. Thank you for sharing and enjoy your painting!

[@7sevendaysara]

I adore this vintage distressed look, so shabby chic vibe

[@ambercrombie789]

I remember being amazed at Annie's work in the '80's. I did a bit of this back then. I miss it. Getting back to it.

[@dianamulroney1532]

What a beautiful chair, you worked that to perfection. Absolutely lovely. I'm looking forward to watching more of you videos.

[@vickielane7387]

Sprung is almost here in my neck of the woods. Looking forward to doing my projects:) Thanks for the video, love when put out!

[@rneustel388]

Beautifully carved chair in lovely colors!

[@kirilees9799]

Managed to get some chalk paint the other day and a really ornate bed head that I wish to use it on!! Now that I have seen this I really can't wait to get started this looks like so much fun!!!!

[@neelamchawla810]

I LOVED THE CHAIR YOU PAINTED.BEAUTIFUL SHADE AND ANTIQUE LOOK

[@lynnsimpkins4510]

Certainly something I can do as I'm in lockdown. I've been meaning to some chalk painting for ages now maybe I have the time. Great videos Annie thanks

[@taminorthgraves7324]

so true! we are all in lock down ;)

[@chardijensen690]

I walked in to a painted furniture store in Poulsbo, WA and fell in love with the idea of chalk paint. She sold Annie Sloan paint as well.

[@janicebradford6231]

I think it’s beautiful. I can’t wait to try your method.

[@Bizzybeefinds]

Nice video. Was trying understand why you recommend waxing before sanding and understand now. Will try that out as I’m used to distressing before waxing 😊

[@jafallica]

Very easy Annie. Thank you.

[@killerninjaz13]

Even though I don't do anything arty I enjoy this it's relaxing

[@ginacole217]

I have been so active in this hobby/craft... THANK YOU !!!

[@AnnieSloanHome]

I'm so pleased your enjoying it! Thank you for sharing.

[@moniqueradford9486]

Beautiful Annie.

[@mapih6754]

I love it!!

[@Thimble996]

Oh the beautiful Givenchy blue came through just perfect, Annie. I love the ease of your paints. They are totally worth it. I still have not tried the antique wax! Looking for a video where you show that one.

[@fionadevries8856]

Beautiful!

[@jayherman1394]

I love working with your paint its by far the best I'm trying to save up so I can travel to a place that has it neat me and stock up no other brand can compare your awesome ty for your amazing product

[@AnnieSloanHome]

That is so nice of you!

[@misshdoe5242]

Aubusson is such a beautiful colour!

[@PreservationEnthusiast]

The way I would decorate that chair is get some paint stripper and take off all that paint and wax mess, then polish the natural wood to a fine finish.

[@sandraleishman878]

So lovely. Thank you for sharing.

[@jelenagalambos9631]

Beautiful. Hvala💚

[@AL-ru3nk]

Wow im so glad i came across this video. I was about to distress a piece and thought I had to wax after the distressing. Thank you for letting me know. Just curious, what would have happened if i distressed first then waxed after?

[@godoggo407]

Gorgeous

[@bagzmore6055]

Inspirational.

[@user-ry2jr9mf1j]

Beautiful

[@rameshthakur3185]

Good luck with your work

[@JS-hb8nk]

Thank you for informing video!

[@mildredwhite5398]

Can stain be used to distress directly on chalk paint

[@aaronhjelmstrom9727]

Great video. Thank you. Is the wax a good sealer for table legs that may need cleaning often due to small sticky hands? Or would a poly or water based poly be a better choice?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Aaron, you can use my Chalk Paint® Lacquer which is more resistant to water than wax. Take a look here: www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/chalk-paint-lacquer

[@lauramcdonald4985]

I love this can you tell me what the 2 colors were again. Ive just gotten into chalk painting and distressing i would love to do a,blend of 2 colors. Thank u

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi there, the base colour is Giverny and the top coat is Aubusson Blue. You can see all of our colours here: www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint

[@Crystal-be9ze]

I’ve used the sanding pads but I keep getting little crystal pieces falling off the pads into my paint finish, can you please tell me how to prevent that from happening, thank you!

[@cassyjaffray668]

thank you. and i must mention You are aswell very lovely lady

[@mrsbrophy66]

I have a wooden bureau which has been in the family ever since I can remember, but its time it was updated. It has a 'pull down' desk and a lovely shape. I think I have decided on the colour but not sure what do with the brass handles on the two drawers....should I just polish up the brass, or use your gilding wax....very nervous ;)

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Susie, it's up to you! Why don't you leave the handles are they are for now, live with them for a little bit, then add Gilding Wax later if you feel they need the extra PAZAZZ!

[@marybrannen630]

Great video!! What colors would I use if I’m looking to do maybe a light pink, grey, or white distressed shabby chic look?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Mary, how about Antoinette, Paris Grey and finish with Old White or a White Wax?

[@lowieanne24]

Love to watch your videos! Once you are finished with the 2 layers of paint, sanding and waxing and it dries... is the furniture protected enough to clean it with a damp cloth and the paint won’t rub off?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Lori, yes, once the wax is completley dry and has had time to cure (usually around 1-2 weeks) the piece of furniture is able to be cleaned.

[@MotherofMycroft]

@@AnnieSloanHome Me. Sloan, I plan on doing your two tone method on the used old wooden round spindled crib my mother-in-law gave me. Is the wax enough or do I need to seal on top in case the baby chews the spindles?

[@LilNYMama]

Hi Annie, does putting a white over a teal or cerulean work for the distressing? Will the teal show through too much because its too dark?

[@holdemdang]

I love your stuff! I'm on old fart, nit I'd apprentice for you any day. Thank you for all the help! ✌

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Thank you! We are always happy to help.

[@craigabt1808]

Nice video Annie! I've refinished a handful of pieces using regular latex paint, but my wife wants me to try chalk paint on a desk she bought, and indicated that she wants something like the 2-color look shown here. Your video is concise and provides good instruction. I'm more confident now in giving it a try. The only thing I'd ad is that while one doesn't have to prime with chalk paint, cleaning the surface is still imperative to ensure good adhesion. I was also wondering about waxing before doing the sanding and then again after, and your reply to an earlier question re: allowing for a little more protection during the sanding phase does make sense. My only thought is that finishes often "clog" abrasives more quickly, so I think I'll just try to be a bit more careful and use a finer grit abrasive during that step. Thanks again for the video.

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Craig, yes the use of Wax before sanding is to be able to control the amount of paint being taken off as you can see better - you can of course sand without any Wax on first.

[@Vaflnana]

Thanks

[@tammysagar6404]

Hi Annie.. how soon after you do the second coat do you apply the wax, in the video it changes to you saying you're ready to wax but wasn't sure if that was immediate or the paint needed to dry a certain time? Thanks! (If anyone reading this knows pls answer as well!)

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Tammy, just wait until the paint is dry to touch, then you can apply the wax.

[@alainperez1904]

Hi, thanks for this good show. Did you let the paint dry completely or did you apply the wax soon after paint? Thank you very much,

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi, let the paint completely dry before applying the wax. Hope this helps.

[@pam.h4007]

This is exactly what I want to do. I've heard that I should let the wax dry overnight before adding a second coat?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Pam, yes this is good practice.

[@jgirlaldrich6559]

Annie, Thank you for your video. I want to paint some caned chairs with Duck Egg blue, would you recommend the first coat of Old white? Their chairs are simple in design, round support structure with caning (which I am going to redo). Thanks in advance for your thoughts?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Only if you're going to sand afterward to reveal some of the underlying colour. Otherwise I would just paint with Duck Egg Blue.

[@gracedimeglio7391]

Hi Annie can you tell me if I am on the right track. I am doing a coffee table which has been sanded back to bare timber. Can I dry brush in paris grey then do a white wash in natural white when tried use the top coat to seal Thanking you

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Yes to all of that! This sounds like a great plan. Enjoy your painting!

[@shanny-bird]

Hi Annie, Can your chalk paints be used in high traffic areas? Specifically, I would like to paint my stairs (risers and treads). I will be adding a runner, so the treads shouldn’t actually see any foot traffic.

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Shannon, absolutely! I've painted many stairs. Just be sure to use my Lacquer on top to protect high traffic areas. Take a look at Racheal Jackson who painted her stairs with Chalk Paint®: banyanbridges.com/chalk-paint-staircase-makeover/

[@patsitko5540]

In doing a few chairs I plan to use the colors graphite and paris grey. Which color would you recommend I use first?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi there, that's totally up to you! Whichever colour you'd like to finish with should be painted last. Good luck and enjoy.

[@harpreetrandhawa1604]

Hi Annie ..hv been watching your videos continuously for the past one week ..u hv such an amazing persona ...really admire you ... Am clueless about art n craft but now I want to paint my living room in blue .....love pastels ...hv already bought Svenska blue ..Chicago grey n old white to work on my tables n consoles ...could u pl recommend some other colour which will go with this decor ...LOUIE BLUE is out of stock with your Stockist in india ..pl advise ...

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Thank you so much! Choosing colours that go with each other is often a challenge for many people. I'd like to direct you to my colour chart on my website. When you click on an individual color a new window will open up that will show you different colours that we feel go well with the colour you have chosen. You will find it here: www.anniesloan.com/products/chalk-paint/. Enjoy exploring!

[@harpreetrandhawa1604]

ThAnkyou so much dear Annie Sloan for the your response ..really kind of you ...will look into your website n follow your advice ..:thsnkyou so much yet again ❤️

[@jessiemassey1653]

Question, did you do a black wardrobe with a lovely tree on it. ?

[@jaydenbrumous2582]

My husband uses these plans from Stodoys and is very happy with them. However. I love yours!

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Glad you like them!

[@jaydenbrumous2582]

@@AnnieSloanHome Yes I like it !

[@sandygirl7193]

Can you wash your sanding pads and will the color transfer to another piece?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

The SandingPads are washable, but some colour may remain so take care when using over a differently coloured piece.

[@karenbutcher5921]

Does anyone know why the paint comes off when I put the wax on?

[@xolveria]

This pencil sand paper for those fine lines

[@wesleyhendricks9375]

Just a quick question can I use a dark wax on raw oak?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Yes!

[@kennirich1451]

How many coats of Giverny and Aubusson Blue did you do before waxing and sanding? Thank you!

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Kenni, just one coat of each on this chair! Most of the time one coat of Chalk Paint ® is plenty, but it really depends on the colour you are using and the colour you are painting over.

[@kamranraja2214]

Annie Sloan what kind of paint u using for. chalk paint or nc paint ? pleas advice

[@chrishermenier8222]

Joli rendu

[@bubbagump1952]

Hi Annie i purchased an old table, the top of the table is oak colored, i want to finish the top only. I want it your Graphite color but i think i would like a little of the oak color to come thru, so because this table will get a ton of use, is the clear wax the best way to go on the top?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Clear Wax would be an excellent choice for your tabletop. Consider a bit of sanding after you've applied your first coat of wax with one of my sanding pads to reveal some of the oak colouration underneath. Then finish with one more coat of wax to seal everything in and give your tabletop some extra durability.

[@bubbagump1952]

Annie Sloan thank you

[@lindseywalters6548]

I've seen most other people use the chalk paint, sand, then wax. Is there a reason why you should paint, wax, then sand vs paint, sand, then wax?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Lindsey, waxing before sanding just minimises mess. It also means you have more control of the amount you take off - this is because without using wax first, it is difficult to see what it will look like until you wax it finally. But you can do it without waxing first, it's just personal preference.

[@jessicashanks7565]

Hi, when you go to sand on top of the fresh wax, would it not get all the dustiness stuck in the wax?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Actually, when you sand on top of wax it reduces all the sanding dust. It's a much cleaner way to work.

[@EsteeDarla]

I am trying to redo all my craft room furniture that's odd and end pieces I collected nothing matches, here's my questions can I just wipe down with soap and water let dry and take your paint and paint it then wax after I dries?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Yes, that is exactly the way to use my products!

[@EsteeDarla]

@@AnnieSloanHome I thought that's what it's about. I just received my Annie paint and brushes will make sure to send you the after look. I'm really excited

[@EsteeDarla]

@@AnnieSloanHome does clear wax yellow over time

[@AnnieSloanHome]

No!

[@DOOM-_-]

I notice almost all furniture are dark base and painted with lighter colored paint and once it's distressed it looks like old worn out wood. Is there a technique to have the same 'look' of distress where the base coat is white and the last coat is white but having distressed look with brown paint or brown wax? Pics and videos for the how to would be appreciated. Thanks!

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Patrick - yes, take a look at our Dark Wax video for an antiqued rustic look: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eIjVdpmmeKqJkKc

[@lauramarin2439]

Could you tell me if the first layer was waxed?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

No! Just paint straight on with the second coat once the first is dry.

[@lauramarin2439]

Annie Sloan thank you very much

[@jenniferryan3244]

I love your video. Just a quick question....and it may be a dumb question. Where I live it gets very hot. I'm talking get out of the shower and realising that you are still dripping, but it's not water, but sweat type heat and humidity. I know you mentioned that the wax will harden over time, but will the wax also soften in the heat. I would hate for great Aunty Mavis to sit on the chair and the wax coat her skirt with a lovely glossy coat hahahaha.

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Jennifer, in hot climates the wax will take longer to dry and cure fully, but once it has fully cured it will be fully hard and not soften. To be safe, I suggest leaving it 2 weeks before full use if you are unsure, but it should be fine within 48 hours to use.

[@scottwisniewski7372]

Hi Annie, can you not sand before you apply the wax, or is it better to sand after you apply the first coat of wax? Thank you...

[@AnnieSloanHome]

I always think it's better if you sand after applying the first coat of wax. Ultimately leads to a more even finish.

[@scottwisniewski7372]

@@AnnieSloanHome Perfect, thank you..

[@mecrat]

How often do you have to re wax the pieces?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hello Marlyn! It really depends on the amount of wear and tear a piece gets. For example, a TV console that gets little more that a light dusting from time to time can go many years, as opposed to a dining table or kitchen cabinetry that require routine cleaning. You can always tell that a waxed finish needs a fresh coat of wax when you can no longer buff it to a pleasant sheen.

[@lizaevans1935]

You didn’t mention wiping off the wax. Am I right to assume you did this both times the wax was applied?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Liza, the wax has a cloth brushed over it after application with a brush, just to remove any excess. This would be both times the wax is applied. Hope that helps!

[@awildaramirez2712]

My piece needs another coat but I applied the wax how can I fix it?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hello Awilda, I suggest you apply two thin coats of Chalk Paint® right over the wax, and then apply a fresh coat of wax. -Jen at ASI

[@pinkylouie]

What kind of wax are you using?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi there, using Chalk Paint® Wax! www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes/clear-chalk-paint-wax

[@ccdunn03]

Can one use wax on normal latex paint?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hello, our Chalk Paint Wax is specifically design to work with our Chalk Paint, so we're unable to comment on its use on other latex paints. However the properties of latex paint generally wouldn't lend itself to waxing. Hope that helps!

[@areliys6juarez793]

Where are you located now Annie solan I try to go to your shop on Burleson but can’t find it

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi there, you can find your nearest Stockist on my website here: www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/ Looks like the nearest Stockist is Waxahachie.

[@ysprsm]

I painted a bookshelf and found my chalk paint chipped/flaked pretty badly. How do I fix this?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi there. Did you use Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan? We always advise to use our wax on top of our paint to protect it.

[@craigabt1808]

Any debris or residue on the surface will result in chipping/flaking as you've described. While it's not necessary to prime the surfaces to be chalk painted, I still like to run some fine sandpaper or a sanding pad over the surface. then vacuum off any dust and wipe down with a (very) lightly moistened microfiber cloth. For extra measure, can take one more pass over the surface with a tack cloth. To "fix" your chipped area(s), you may be able to get away with sanding the chipped/flaked section(s) until you get to where it doesn't flake anymore. Then clean the surface as noted and re-apply the paint and wax. If however the piece was not cleaned reasonably well to start with, you may be stuck having to strip and try again (but for your sake, I hope not). Good Luck ysprsm!

[@Dreamweaver777]

Lovely! I wish there were more closeups on the finished chair!

[@user-ly8yj4fw9w]

Should I just buy medium brush or large?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

I've always felt the medium brush was the most versatile size and it's the size I personally use for most of my projects.

[@jugodelcarmen9838]

Can I paint triplay or metal with chalk paint?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Yes!

[@sylwiakrystek3139]

Witch colour do you use Anie Sloan please giverny and ...???

[@annasulkowska3326]

aubusson blue :)

[@lorainearias5015]

She used 2 colors

[@ElevenBird]

I wish you specified the wax in the video and description

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Robin, I am using Clear Chalk Paint® Wax. You can see it here: www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/annie-sloan-waxes-and-finishes

[@stolenmemes5905]

Hi Annie! I live in south west France, 46700, my nearest stockist of your paint is over an hour drive away.. I have been enjoying renovating my furniture for over 30 years, of course we had less choice then didn't we! I'd like to hold workshops in my large and beautiful old stone house, please tell me how to go about it. Bonne journée!! Bisou 😘

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Your home sounds beautiful. Are you interested in becoming a Stockist? If so, you'll find information about becoming one here: www.anniesloan.com/become-a-stockist/

[@ringtonetemu1906]

Which wax are you using

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hello, I am using Clear Chalk Paint Wax.

[@ChrisMum]

Hi can someone tell me if I want to put AS paint on MDF doors, do I need to seal or prime the routed edge fronts on the doors first?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi there, unsealed MDF is quite porous, which can make it tricky to get an even finish - test first if you're not sure!

[@meagansnelson3709]

I tried the wax, but it NEVER hardend to really protect the piece. Was so disappointed.

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Meagan, I'm so sorry to hear that. It may have been that there was too much Wax applied and so it never had the chance to dry fully. The curing process also takes up to 2 weeks. Some regular buffing of the piece will help it on it's way to full curing!

[@annakathleen1993]

Why do you need to wax?

[@nickshostak6842]

Is the base layer also chalk paint?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Of course! It's all I ever use. ;-)

[@juanadavila3588]

Where do I find ann chalk paint

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Juana, you can purchase Chalk Paint® from Stockists all over the glob, find your local one here: www.anniesloan.com/stockists/#/

[@samyukthamurugan]

U can order t online from Amazon

[@bondiemarekno5412]

Annie sloan paints I have a questions for you . Do you have people with business sell all your products and train the person on your paint and your other products if so I am interested in your paints and the history of your paints. Please advise

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Please visit our website to learn more about our products and the history of our company. If you are interested in becoming an Annie Sloan Stockist and selling our products, you can learn about what is required here: www.anniesloan.com/become-a-stockist/

[@pentzzzify]

Why are you waxing before ? I bought varnish, not wax. Should I use it before or after sanding the second color layer ? 🤔 Thank you

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Adding wax before make its easier to control and less messy, but is not essential. You could sand without waxing, just be aware the paint will come off much easier. You could varnish before or after, depending on your preference.

[@pentzzzify]

@@AnnieSloanHome I was actually in the middle of the process while I was posting that comment and decided to sand first. However, I did use a fairly fine grain so I had no issue whatsoever. Thank you so much for your idea. It gave my project a whole new look.

[@valantiskoukiainis337]

why wax it and sand it?wouldn't it be easier to wax it all in the end?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hello Valantis, Waxing prior to distressing or sanding cuts down dramatically on the dust created in the process of sanding Chalk Paint®. Also, Sanding creates heat and can burnish the paint which can cause discoloration on some of the colors.

[@user-kl2xm9te5x]

チョークペイント®︎の基本的な使い方の日本語字幕で紹介しています。

[@AnnieSloanHome]

現時点では日本語字幕を提供することはできませんが、日本にはアニースローンストッカーが何人かいます。ここにリストがあります：https：//www.anniesloan.com/stockists/？location = 36.204824,138.252924＆radius = 300＆view = grid＆type = stockist

[@allandocater6296]

plans from woodprix are awesome!

[@TS-hf3cn]

I did not see two colors here

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Annie used Giverny underneath and Aubusson Blue on top.

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Annie used Giverny underneath and Aubusson Blue on top.

[@Gioware]

*Damages whatever she was doing*...I REALLY LIKE IT THAT WAY :D

[@lisagordon6355]

paint wax sand wax why not paint sand wax?

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Lisa, you can, but adding a layer of Wax means you don't take off so much Wax and is a lot less dusty.

[@lisagordon6355]

great advice ~ much appreciated.

[@gr1rm4]

You are not showing close ups of what she is pointing out. Ugh.

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Thank you for your comment. We'll take it under consideration for our future videos.

[@am-xe2fs]

I bought from retailer and the paint was watered down. The retailer tried to tell me that is the way the paint is. NO!!! I contacted the supplier and she was so rude to me over the phone. First she sent me emails stating she was going to send me new paint plus extra paint for the mishap. She then called me and said I will only get the paint if I post my pieces online. I said no. She goes then you are not getting any paint. I have the emails from the supplier and the retailer. Lost my business!

[@AnnieSloanHome]

Hi Kell, I'm really sorry to hear this. If you want to continue this issue please email [e-mail]. Thank you

[@am-xe2fs]

@@AnnieSloanHome Is this email in the UK? Because I already dealt with the marketing person in ontario canada. She is the one that bribed me and was so unprofessional and ignorant with me.