Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Table Makeover
I adore these hand-me-down tables from my parents. They are solid wood and the tabletops have gorgeous grain patterns, but as you can tell, they were certainly due for a makeover!
I absolutely love how they turned out! I’m proud to show them off as part of a reading nook in our master bedroom. I finished the entire project over two evenings, so this was certainly a manageable undertaking with major impact.
First I stripped the tops of each table and applied liquid sander to the legs and drawers.
I used my HomeRight Finish Max Pro Fine Finish sprayer to paint the legs using Chalk Paint® Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan in the color Graphite. I was so thrilled to find out that I could use chalk paint in my sprayer. It made this job really speedy and easy. I have tried several brands of chalk paint, but Annie Sloan is my favorite. You can’t beat the coverage…and who has time to do more coats than you absolutely have to.
I couldn’t stand to just cover up the patterns on the top, so after the tops were stripped, I applied DIY Driftwood Weathered Wood Finish, available here, to gray the wood and give it a rustic look. Once that dried, to lighten it and give it additional distressing, I applied a wash using one part Chalk Paint® Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan in Country Greyand two parts water. I let the wash sit for about one minute and then gently wiped it off using a clean cloth.
New hardware was absolutely required. These new nickel pulls and backplates give the tables a much more modern feel.
I gave each table a coat of wax using Annie Sloan Clear Soft Wax and the Annie Sloan Wax Brush. This protects the paint and gives your pieces a clean, finished look. The wax and brush are fantastic. The brush really gets into all of the detailed areas, allowing you to apply the wax evenly very quickly. I can’t wait to give our other wood tables a good coat of wax to keep them looking great. It’s so easy to use.
Once the wax was applied, I quickly wiped all surfaces with a clean cloth. The wax really brought out the colours in the legs and tabletop, and the best part is that it resists water, so I don’t have to be really crazy with coasters on these tables.
I can’t wait for a rainy day so I can get cozy with a good book in this newly updated little spot.
FAQs for an Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Table Makeover:
Q1: What is Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, and why is it good for a table makeover?
A1: Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is a versatile, water-based paint known for its matte finish and ease of use. It can be applied to almost any surface without the need for priming or sanding, making it ideal for upcycling furniture like tables. The paint provides excellent coverage and can be layered to create various effects.
Q2: Do I need to sand my table before applying Annie Sloan Chalk Paint?
A2: No, one of the main advantages of using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is that it doesn’t require sanding or priming. However, if your table has a glossy finish or is heavily scratched, a light sanding might help the paint adhere better. Just make sure to clean the surface well afterward.
Q3: How many coats of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint will I need for my table?
A3: The number of coats needed depends on the colour and the surface you’re painting. For most colours, one to two coats are typically enough for solid coverage. Lighter colours might need a third coat to achieve the desired effect. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next.
Q4: Can I use this Chalk Paint on a wood table?
A4: Yes, Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is perfect for wood tables. It adheres well to wood without the need for sanding or priming. However, if the wood is very porous, you might need to apply an additional layer of paint for full coverage.
Q5: How do I achieve a distressed look on my table with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint?
A5: To achieve a distressed look, simply apply your paint and let it dry. Once dry, lightly sand the edges and high points of your table with fine-grit sandpaper. This will reveal the underlying wood or a previous layer of paint for a charming, worn effect.
Q6: Do I need to seal the table after painting it?
A6: Yes, it’s a good idea to seal your painted table with either clear or tinted wax to protect the paint and give it a soft sheen. You can also use Annie Sloan Lacquer for a more durable, water-resistant finish. Apply the wax or lacquer after the paint is fully dry (usually 24 hours).
Q7: Can I paint a table that’s already been painted or varnished?
A7: Absolutely! Annie Sloan Chalk Paint can be applied over most existing paint or varnish without the need for priming or sanding. Just clean the surface well to ensure the new paint adheres properly.
Q8: How do I maintain the painted table after the makeover?
A8: To maintain your newly painted table, avoid harsh chemicals and clean it with a soft, damp cloth. Reapply a coat of wax every 6-12 months, or as needed, to keep the surface protected and looking fresh.
Q9: Can I use Annie Sloan Chalk Paint on other types of furniture besides a table?
A9: Yes! This Chalk Paint works on various surfaces, including wood, metal, and even fabric. It’s great for furniture makeovers like chairs, cabinets, and dressers, as well as home décor items like mirrors and frames.
Q10: Can I mix Annie Sloan Chalk Paint colours to create my own custom shade?
A10: Yes, you can mix different Chalk Paint colours to create your own unique shade. Just make sure to mix enough paint to complete your project, as recreating a custom colour later may be difficult.
See more of my DIY posts here and more of my craft posts here!
You might also enjoy my DIY chalk paint method
Becky is the voice behind Life in Velvet, an organised, intentional living blog focused on practical food, calm homes, thoughtful projects, and everyday systems that make real life feel easier. A mum of 3 living in the UK, Becky writes from lived experience, sharing what works, what doesn’t, and the decisions that make family life run more smoothly.
With a background in marketing and content writing, and over a decade of blogging experience, she brings a thoughtful, structured approach to everything from baking and home projects to routines and decision-making. Life in Velvet is where planning meets creativity, with ideas designed for real homes and real life.