What is Chalk Synthesis Paint?
Chalk Synthesis Paint is often referred to as Wise Owl's “chalk-style paint”. It is a clay-based mineral paint that is incredibly smooth with unbelievable adhesion and rich colour pigmentation. Chalk Synthesis Paint makes painting furniture simple and easy; it’s also perfect for creative blended, layered, or distressed finishes.
What about health?
Chalk Synthesis Paint is Zero VOC and non-toxic. The paint is a “synthesis” of the best parts of acrylic, mineral, and clay paint without the presence of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) and without formaldehyde, propylene glycol, and crystalline silicates.
What surfaces can I paint with CSP?
Bare wood, surfaces coated with varnish, painted furniture, glass, metal, leather, and even fabric and upholstery.
What is the coverage of Chalk Synthesis Paint?
Amazing coverage. A pint (+/- 500ml by volume) covers approximately 7m2.
What type of brush is the best to use?
A natural bristle brush produces subtle texture and makes painting quicker and easier. A stiff natural bristle brush is able to get into detailed pieces with ease. They are also great to use for wax applications. Synthetic and sponge brushes and rollers may be used for different finishes. Find what brush works for you.
Do I need to prime or sand?
Sanding is rarely required before beginning a project. The exceptions to this rule are: removing loose paint from a surface, smoothing out any defects or imperfections you do not wish to keep, and removing rust and debris that remains on the surface. Lightly sanding your painted piece with fine grit sandpaper or a sanding block can produce a smooth surface for easier application of glaze, poly, wax, or hemp oil. After the paint is dry, if a more textured paint finish is desired skip the sanding and go right to choosing a sealant. The superior coverage of Wise Owl Chalk Synthesis Paint will smooth out most minor imperfections. Some laminate furniture may benefit for a light sanding to ensure proper adhesion.
How do I apply the paint?
There are many techniques for applying the paint. To start, make sure you thoroughly shake and stir the paint. Shake the can vigorously for one minute then open and stir. You may pour the paint into a smaller container to keep the can clean from paint or you may paint directly from the can. Dip only the first 1/4’” of the brush into the paint and paint in short brush strokes in a thin coat to reduce brush stroke marks. It may be applied in a crisscross pattern as well if more texture is desired. After your first coat is thoroughly dry you may apply a second coat if needed. Sanding between coats is not necessary.
Do I need a top coat?
Yes. you should seal chalk-painted furniture to protect your paint so it stands the test of time. Wise Owl Chalk Synthesis Paint is a porous paint. All of the negative pore space enables the paint to have superior adhesion qualities. The pore space must be filled or protected to reduce further distress and to prevent the paint from absorbing liquids or oils from use. Choosing the right sealant depends on the piece and its intended finish and use.
Sealer Options
WISE OWL VARNISH
Can I paint my kitchen cabinets with Wise Owl Chalk Synthesis Paint?
ABSOLUTELY! Many kitchens have been given gorgeous makeovers with Wise Owl Chalk Synthesis Paint! As long as you clean the surfaces properly and seal with an appropriate sealer, your cabinets will maintain a beautiful and strong finish. We recommend Wise Owl Matte or our Satin Varnish for the strongest finish.
Why am I seeing discoloration on my painted piece?
There are times when a barrier may be necessary. Some furniture may have stains or varnishes and tannins present in the wood that may bleed through. This generally shows itself when the topcoat is applied and the stains are drawn to the surface. If you experience this, you can apply our Matte Varnish or any brand of shellac under the paint to block bleed-through. Primer is not generally effective at preventing bleed though due to its porous nature. Pieces from the Depression era may have such finishes that require a barrier to ensure it doesn’t change your finish to yellow or pink in areas. If you have already painted and are noticing bleed-through, the basecoat may be applied over the dried paint. After the barrier is dry you may paint right over it.
Some wood species such as pine, oak, and mahogany may occasionally discolour paint from tannins in the knots in the wood. The same technique of applying a barrier will eliminate this from happening.
What is dry brushing?
Dry brushing is a technique designed to mimic an antique weathered or distressed look or to layer several colors into a finish with lots of dimension. To achieve this look, simply dip the very end of your dry brush into the paint. Gently wisp on the paint without covering all areas. You may paint in all directions or stay horizontal or vertical depending on the desired look. This technique is especially effective on pieces with lots of texture or detail. Allowing the paint to just graze the raised detail adds character and detail to your piece. You will use less paint and further distressing is not required.
How do I create a distressed look?
There are several techniques to achieve a layered, chippy, distressed, or aged look. After your paint is dry you may lightly sand with sandpaper or a sanding block to reveal the finish below the paint. Focus on areas that would be distressed with time. You are trying to mimic what time would naturally do to a piece. Focus on areas of detail and the edges and legs of the piece for a natural distressed look. Layering paint colors and sanding to reveal colors below is a technique which produces unique pieces. Dark wax, glazes, and even stain may be applied to add patina and character to pieces. School glue can even be applied and painted over to create a chippy or crackle effect. Paint may be applied in thick coats and hit lightly with a hair dryer for a crackle effect. Get creative with your techniques!