Dear Readers,
Have I told you lately that I love you? I received the kindest emails, words, thoughts (and do every time I’m feeling blue). I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your constant encouragement & support. One of my favorite line came from Michele quoting Eleanor Roosevelt “What other people think of me is none of my business.” Love. That.
Onto chalk paint. I received some more questions from folks that watched the Blue Egg Brown Nest video tutorials. Here they are with, hopefully, some helpful responses.
“Do you mind sharing your system for getting the paint off glass/mirrors without taking off the paint around the sides?”
Well, my system is not really a system, it’s simply to paint over the glass/mirror! Your hardware store sells razors that go in little scrapers that you can hold onto for safety. I wait until my piece is completely finished & dry and go scrape it with my razor. Okay, that’s a lie. I make my DH scrape the mirror because he’s much better at it than I am. Then you want to take your large dry brush that you only use for dust & dry things, and brush off the shredded paint.
“…I’m confused on the brushes to use. What size Annie Sloan brush do you use for painting furniture and which wax brushes do you use for clear and dark wax application? I’ve noticed that there are different sizes. It’s quite an investment to start out…and I’d love to get your input!”
There is a specific type of Annie Sloan paint brush that you will want to use for your broad surfaces. Basically, it’s the largest one she makes. For small spaces her small brushes work quite well or you may just want to go to the hardware store and purchase a small angled brush for the crevices. For the wax application you will need one large wax brush strictly for the clear wax and a smaller one strictly for your dark wax. I will be doing a post tomorrow specifically on brushes and have pictures to show.
“…was wondering if you buff your pieces after waxing?”
Yes. After you use your clear wax brush to brush on the ASCW in a thick, cohesive coat, you want to take a rag or piece of cheesecloth and wipe off the excess clear wax, which you will have if you apply it correctly. Rub quite hard as this will create a bit of a sheen to the piece that once had a matte, chalky finish pre clear wax. When you apply your dark wax in only certain crevices and corners, I like to wipe off any caked on brown bits with my fine steel wool.
“…just used my AS wax brush for the first time (clear wax) what have you found to be the best way to wash it? and do I have to clean it every time I use it?”
Great question. Lye soap is what you want to use to clean the wax off your brushes. I use my clear wax brush for several pieces before washing it. You will know when it needs a good wash when it’s caked on the bristles and doesn’t not move over your surface. I like to lather my lye bar of soap and soak the brush for a few hours. When I go back the brush & soap have had a while to mingle and the wax comes off more easily by rubbing with my hands. On this note, I have exciting news to share that I will be making & selling little blue eggs of lye soap specifically for your Annie Sloan wax brushes. Be on the look out as I iron out the last steps. Making lye soap is a bit different than painting I quickly found out!
Blue Egg Brown Nest Lye Soap – Used for cleaning your chalk paint brushes. (I left out an image of the ugly jug of lye!)
“I live on a farm in Michigan and was wondering how you sold your furniture when you first started your business?”
I think getting plugged into your community is a great first start. My dad & grandfather designed & made jewelry my whole life and their businesses were based around word of mouth. It’s not to be underestimated. You and your personality are a big part of your business so share your love with those around you. Then look into doing some local fairs, holiday shows, etc. It’s a lot of work and you may not sell much at first, but you will be able to smile and pass out some business cards. Oh yea, you need to design some business cards and keep them in your wallet. And since you live on a farm – try hosting your own barn sale! I know I’d come if I were closer!
Got chalk paint questions? Post and I’ll respond!
xoxo
Hi iv just recently started using Annie Sloan paint and wax and I’m finding on large furniture my waxed areas look a bit patchy. I think I’m maybe not using enough wax but im wondering if I can just apply more without sanding it down first? Thank you
First of all I’m obsessed with your painting technique! Too bad someone got your spirits down for a little bit. Anyhow, I watched your tutorials and love the steel wool tip, I used it and came out great but made a huge mess like when I distress. I’m I doing something wrong? Thanks, raquel
more great tips! thanks so much!
I just recently found your website/blog and watched your tutorial on youtube, you are awesome! Love your style:). I noticed in your video, that you painted the dresser with the drawers still closed. Does the chalk paint differ from latex, in that the doors won’t stick shut? Does the same apply for cupboard doors (armoire or buffet)? Thanks so much, looking forward to trying my first piece!