Dark Wax Vs Clear Wax On Chalk Paint
When it comes to chalk paint, wax is an essential part of the process. You need to apply wax to your chalk paint to seal it and protect it from wear and tear. However, there are two types of wax that you can use: dark wax and clear wax. This article will discuss the differences between dark wax vs clear wax on chalk paint to help you make an informed decision.
What is Chalk Paint?
Chalk paint is a popular type of paint that is used to create a vintage or shabby chic look on furniture and other surfaces. It is a water-based paint that dries to a matte finish and can be easily distressed or sanded to create a weathered look. Chalk paint is also very forgiving, as it can be painted over almost any surface without the need for sanding or priming.
What is Wax?
Wax is a type of sealer that is used to protect and enhance the finish of your chalk paint. It is available in two types: clear wax and dark wax. Clear wax is a transparent wax that doesn't alter the color of your paint, while dark wax is a tinted wax that can add depth and dimension to your paint.
Clear Wax
Clear wax is the most common type of wax used on chalk paint. It is transparent and doesn't alter the color of your paint, which makes it ideal for light-colored paints or for those who want to maintain the original color of their paint. Clear wax is also easy to apply and can be buffed to a high shine.
However, clear wax can be prone to showing fingerprints and dirt, especially on light-colored paints. It also doesn't add any depth or dimension to your paint, which can make it look flat or one-dimensional.
Dark Wax
Dark wax is a tinted wax that can add depth and dimension to your chalk paint. It is ideal for darker-colored paints or for those who want to create an aged or vintage look on their furniture. Dark wax can also be used to highlight details and add texture to your paint.
However, dark wax can be more difficult to apply than clear wax, as it can stain or alter the color of your paint if applied too heavily. It also requires more buffing and polishing to achieve a high shine.
Which Should You Use?
The choice between dark wax and clear wax ultimately depends on your personal preference and the look you want to achieve. If you want to maintain the original color of your paint or have a light-colored paint, then clear wax is the best choice. If you want to add depth and dimension to your paint or have a darker-colored paint, then dark wax is the way to go.
It's also worth noting that you can use both types of wax on your chalk paint. Start with a layer of clear wax to seal your paint and then add a layer of dark wax to create depth and dimension. Just be sure to apply the waxes in the correct order and buff them well in between layers.
Conclusion
Both dark wax and clear wax have their pros and cons, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preference and the look you want to achieve. Clear wax is ideal for maintaining the original color of your paint, while dark wax adds depth and dimension. You can also use both types of wax to create a layered look on your chalk paint. Just be sure to apply the waxes correctly and buff them well to achieve a beautiful finish.