Distressing with Chalk Effects Paint

Creating a distressed finish with Mezzie + Frank Chalk Effects Paint is an excellent way to infuse character and vintage charm into your furniture and décor. This Australian-made, low-VOC paint adheres to various surfaces with minimal preparation, making it ideal for upcycling projects. Its matte, chalky finish lends itself beautifully to distressing techniques, allowing you to achieve a timeworn, rustic look with ease.

Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Distressed Finish

1. Prepare Your Surface

Begin by cleaning your furniture piece to remove any dirt or grease. While Mezzie + Frank paint requires minimal prep, lightly sanding glossy surfaces can enhance adhesion.

2. Apply Base Coat

Choose your base colour and apply 1-2 coats, allowing each to dry thoroughly. For added depth, consider applying a contrasting colour as a second layer.

3. Distressing Techniques

Dry Distressing: Once the paint is dry, use fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) to gently sand areas that would naturally show wear, such as edges and corners. This technique reveals the underlying paint or wood, creating an authentic aged appearance.

Wet Distressing: Before the top coat fully dries, use a damp cloth to rub away paint in selected areas. This method offers a softer, more subtle distressed look.

Layered Distressing: Apply a base coat, followed by a second colour. Once dry, sand through the top layer in spots to expose the base colour, adding visual interest and depth.

4. Finishing Touches

After achieving the desired distressed effect, remove any dust with a clean cloth. Seal your piece with Mezzie + Frank's Hardy Clear Coat or Gilly's Carnauba Polish to protect the finish and enhance durability.

Pictured above: Using sandpaper to distress a project painted with Mezzie + Frank Chalk Effects Paint in 'Sandbar' and stencilled with 'Whitehaven'