FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a selection of commonly asked questions which will help you get the very best out of Colourman Paints® chalk paints.

What is chalk paint?

Chalk paint differs from regular paint with it’s finish. It gives a very soft, matte finish. This means it has no sheen to it. This gives it a very distinctive style which is popular for furniture restoration. That’s not to say it isn’t used in many other situations – it’s versatile enough to be used on wall, floors and even metal with the correct preparation.

Colourman Paint should not be used as a chalk board paint as it is not wipeable.

How many coats does chalk paint need?

Chalk based paints benefit from good coverage, so generally only need 1 or 2 coats depending on finish required.

Does chalk paint scratch or mark easily?

For most situations, it is best to protect chalk paint surfaces from scuffs and marks on furniture with a high quality lacquer or wax. Once this has been applied, it will extend the life of the surface substantially.

Can I use a roller with chalk paint?

Yes! Our paints work well with both rollers and brushes, so let your imagination run wild!

As an added benefit, chalk paint is water-based, so you will be able to clean your brushes and rollers with ease.

What colours can you get in chalk paint?

You can get chalk paint in many colours, we recommend looking at our colourcard for our latest palette

Can you use chalk paints outside?

Colourman chalk paint is a water based decorative paint and does not have any weatherproof or protective properties. However if left unprotected it will weather and fade gracefully in the sun in the elements if used on a vertical surface area such as a small garden shed, doors or window frames

How long does chalk paint need to dry?

While may factors play in to drying time, it is recommended that you wait about 1-2 hours between coats in most cases. In warm conditions and low humidity the dry time can be reduced

Can I chalk paint kitchen cabinets?

Yes, you can chalk paint on kitchen cabinets. You will need to be prepare the surface using shellac sanding sealer if required, please see our techniques page. We’d then recommend using Colourman® water based lacquer to fully protect the paint layer from the wear and tear of daily use.

Can I use chalk paint over stained wood?

Yes you can. One of the qualities of chalk based paint is it’s adherence to most surfaces. It’s worth saying that untreated surfaces should have a shellac sanding sealer applied though, please see our techniques page. Once this is in place, the paint is great at smoothing uneven surfaces.

Why Can't I Find A MSDS/COSHH/Health & Safety Datasheet On The Website?

For legal reasons we use a third party software program to analyse the contents of our paint products and ensure that we provide an up-to-date safety datasheet that’s CLP compliant. CLP is the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation, EC No 1272/2008. It’s the EU’s way of implementing GHS, the Globally Harmonised System for hazardous substance classification. To request a Health & Safety data sheet please Contact Us. If you’re looking for a product data sheet (general product information and instructions for use) please visit our Datasheets Page.