Chalk it up

If you thought that the last time you would encounter the word ‘chalk’ would be in primary school, then you may have to think again. Originally created by the paint brand Annie Sloan, chalk paint is a fun new way to give your house a vintage feel or try something entirely new. The paint is used to give furniture and home décor a matte look and is very easy to apply.

One of the many perks to using chalk paint is that it doesn’t require any prep; you can simply apply it to most surfaces (even ones that have already been painted) as long as it is clean and dry. So, whether you’re revitalising, restyling or refurbishing, here’s a few tips to ensure that your house is the chalk of the town!

1. Something old: If your old dresser or wardrobe is looking exactly that… old, then it may be time to give that old girl a new coat of paint. Annie Sloan has 42 shades available on their Chalk Paint Colour Card, each with their own inspiration or story. So, while you’re telling your neighbour about your freshly painted Antoinette cupboard you can also tell them the colour is inspired by the decorative pieces and interiors of 18th century France.

   

    

2. Something new: This tip isn’t for the faint of heart. It requires a fight against the greys and neutral colours of contemporary stairs. Adding a little bit of colour, even if it’s a subtle pastel or darker colours, onto your stairs at home can really open up the space and provide an interesting talking point for guests.
   

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3. Something borrowed: The inherited furniture from grandma might have looked good in her house but it may not fit in with your contemporary furniture. While some may think it’s a sin to paint over granny’s beloved old dining room table and repurpose it into a desk, using Annie Sloan’s Athenian Black shade could be a great way to pay homage to your childhood memories.

   

    

4. Something blue… navy: Annie Sloan has just recently launched two new shades of easy-to-use chalk paint: Oxford Navy and Athenian Black. If you really like the matte look of the chalk paint, you can move your brush from furniture to wall. Oxford Navy is the perfect colour to do so. It’s a traditional navy blue that takes inspiration from Annie’s home city – Oxford.