Take on your Next DIY Project with Benjamin Moore’s Alternative to Chalk Paint
Do you have old furniture lying around that could use a fresh coat of paint? Or maybe you’ve been “dye-ing” to change the hue of your kitchen cabinets? You can elevate, update, and luxury-ify even your most worn-down pieces with the help ofBenjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Matte Alkyd Paint.
As an alternative to the ever-trendy chalk paint, the alkyd paint gives you that ultra-matte finish that will bring your furniture into the 21st century. Whether this is your first time venturing into DIY territory or you’re an expert with a paintbrush, theBenjamin Moore Advance paint is easy to use and very forgiving, especially if you’re painting large, flat surfaces like cabinetry. Benjamin Moore’s proprietary technology minimizes brush marks and comes withGennex® zero-VOC colorant system, which means these paints are safer for your family and the environment.
Visit one of JC Licht’s 48 Chicagoland locations to see how the Advance Waterborne Matte Alkyd Paint can bring your project to life.
Why Choose Alkyd Paint?
Alkyd paint, like chalk paint, combines the durability of oil-based paints with the fast-drying properties of latex-based paints, but since it’s water-based, you can clean it up with just soap and water. TheBenjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Matte Paints ensure even flow and leveling, meaning that your brush strokes won’t reveal themselves as the paint dries. The paint will go on smooth and look even more beautiful once dried. Plus, you can choose from over3,500 Benjamin Moore paint colors.
At JC Licht, we have expert color consultants that can help you cultivate a color palette you’ll love for your spaces. Set up a color consultation today to find out how to bring a fresh look into your home.
How to Paint with Alkyd Paint
Even though alkyd paint is easy to work with and the application is a cinch, there’s still a little grunt work you’ll need to do before and after painting to ensure that your piece achieves the look that you’re striving for. Whether you’re painting kitchen cabinets or bringing an old dresser back to life, these tips will get you the look you want with the durability you need.
Preparation
Alkyd and chalk paints encourage little to no prep work, but fundamentally, you’ll want to clean the surface thoroughly when you’re coating anything. If you see chips, cracks, and other imperfections, or if the surface is coated with something very shiny, you will want to take down the sheen or buff out those chips with a bit of sanding. A simplesanding sponge or block will do the trick.
Traditionally, alkyd paints are known to be self-primers, but there are a few instances where a coat of primer will be necessary. If you are working with wood that has been stained and varnished, or the piece currently has a dark color, these properties can bleed through your topcoat and tinge your desired color. A quick coat of primer likeBenjamin Moore High Hiding Primer will prevent that bleeding and give you a gorgeous matte finish.
Application
Benjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Matte goes on smoothly, and you can get it mixed and matched to any color to create your intended effect. If your piece is already distressed and you want to maintain that look, the self-leveling finish won’t leave behind brush marks that will take away from the character you’re looking to replicate. If you’ve used chalk paint in the past, you’ll find that the Advance Waterborne Matte takes slightly longer to dry, but that’s because it has such high leveling properties.
Alkyd paints can be applied using a traditionalpaintbrush or afoam roller. Just one coat is all you need, but if you notice that the color is looking dull, you may want to add another coat. Be sure to allow five days for curing and drying before you decide to add that second coat.
The consistency of alkyd and chalk paints is thicker, which is why it’s so great at self-leveling, but you can make it even thicker by leaving the top off of the paint can until you achieve the consistency you want. Alternately, you can add more water to thin out the paint for a paint that will barely cover the surface. A thinner paint is better if you’re going for a rustic chic or distressed look. Another way to achieve this is to sand the surface after painting.
Finishing Touches
Once the paint is applied, there are a few final steps you’ll want to take to ensure that your surface will stand up to everyday wear and tear for years to come. If you typically paint with chalk paint, you’re probably accustomed to using a water-based polyurethane or a wax to protect the surface, and you’ll want to do the same when using Advance Waterborne Matte.Benwood Stays Clear by Benjamin Moore is a perfect option for this coat, and you can choose from flat, low luster, or glossy finish. If you’re using the matte paint, you’re probably going for a flatter look, so we would recommend the flat finish as your go-to. Always allow the piece to cure for two weeks before use to ensure that your finish is entirely hardened and dry.
Take on your next painting project with confidence by choosingBenjamin Moore Advance Waterborne Matte Alkyd Paint. It will go on smoother, last longer, and with 3,500+ paint colors to choose from, you can match your home’s aesthetic and even create your desired finish with the painting techniques we’ve shared here. For more advice and all the painting supplies you’ll need, check out yourlocal JC Licht store.
We wish you all the DIY success and hope you’ll share your finished pieces with us onsocial media by tagging @JCLicht!
