Annie Sloan Chalk Paint is ideal for DIY projects, whether you’re refreshing a thrift store find like a headboard or enhancing tired walls. The major advantage? Unlike traditional paint, chalk paint eliminates the need for sanding, priming, or a topcoat, resulting in a gorgeous matte finish that endures for years with minimal effort. Originally developed by artist Annie Sloan in 1990, her eponymous brand now offers a wide range of exquisite and long-lasting colors. To assist you in your search, we consulted Sloan and other interior designers to highlight the finest paint colors. By following these recommendations, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle your next home improvement project effortlessly.
Napoleonic Blue by Anthony Gianacakos:
For a bold and striking design, consider Annie Sloan’s vibrant Napoleonic Blue. Designer Anthony Gianacakos raves about its versatility, using it on various surfaces like walls, cabinets, and counters. Gianacakos recommends sealing surfaces with multiple layers of polyurethane for added durability.
Olive by Annie Sloan:
If you’re seeking a unique earthy tone, Olive is your go-to color. Described as the chameleon of the chalk paint palette by Sloan, Olive is a soft khaki green that can either blend into the background or stand out as the focal point of a color scheme, creating a sense of spaciousness in smaller kitchens.
Louis Blue by Annie Sloan:
The beauty of chalk paint lies in its versatility across various surfaces. Sloan highlights Louis Blue, which she used on walls behind a mirror and vanity. This shade is particularly suitable for glass, metal, flooring, concrete, and plastic, offering a quick and fuss-free application with rapid drying times.
Old Violet by Annie Sloan:
To avoid costly bathroom renovations, consider using chalk paint to create visual interest. Sloan suggests applying Old Violet to surfaces like bath sides, floors, or furniture, followed by a clear lacquer seal. This shade imparts a checkerboard effect on the floor, inspired by 18th-century interiors, and complements whites, reds, or deep pinks.
Paloma by Annie Sloan:
Elevate mundane wooden drawers with Paloma chalk paint, which imparts a modern aesthetic. Sloan advises using this color on pieces like cabinets to refresh their appearance, paired with stylish hardware for a contemporary touch.
Frida Blue by Annie Sloan:
Transform ordinary furniture into unique statement pieces by layering or stenciling with chalk paint. Sloan encourages creativity, showcasing how Frida Blue can turn a dull cabinet into a captivating work of art through simple techniques.
Paprika Red by Annie Sloan:
Enhance any room with a pop of color using Paprika Red chalk paint. Sloan demonstrates its use on an ornate sideboard, highlighting its bold yet elegant character with earthy undertones.
She explains, “I think it’s a wonderfully versatile color.” Coolabah Green by Annie Sloan is an earthy green that can serve as a lovely neutral shade, but when paired with brighter colors, it can elevate the look. In this instance, Sloan has combined the soft and elegant Coolabah Green with a vibrant red.
“I enjoy searching flea markets and thrift stores for items to paint,” she remarks. “Don’t fret too much about imperfections like scratches or stains—paint can easily cover them up.”
French Linen, according to interior designer Thomas Mach of Thomas Mach Interiors, is the ideal color for various pieces such as tables, lamps, and flower pots. Its mix of gray and soft purple undertones gives it a cool and effortlessly stylish appearance. Mach applied this Annie Sloan color to an old baby changing table, transforming it into a cocktail bar for his home.
Capri Pink, as showcased by Stacey Martin from the Freshmaker interior design firm, demonstrates the boldness that can be achieved with chalk paint. In a bathroom setting, Martin used Capri Pink on two shell-shaped sconces. “Their creamy, rich tones work wonders when adding a surprising touch of personality to a light fixture or mirror,” she notes.
Athenian Black, another hue by Annie Sloan, is a versatile neutral but can appear harsh in specific design settings. To soften its look, chalk paint can be used to add texture. Martin, for instance, utilized Athenian Black to create a textured, multi-dimensional wall. “By employing rag and dry brush techniques, I created black chalk paint swirls over a matte black latex base for a textured, two-tone effect,” she explains.
Eva Bradley, an interior designer from Eva Bradley Studio, chose the dark and luxurious Oxford Navy for the walls of a home office. “I prefer using chalk paint in areas where I want to introduce depth, texture, and a touch of opulence,” Bradley shares. “Darker shades are my favorites as they really highlight the dry, plaster-like finish.”
For more information, you can read the original article on Martha Stewart.
