Best Top Coat For Chalk Paint (2024 Updated)

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If you're a DIY enthusiast, you're probably familiar with chalk paint. It's a versatile and easy-to-use paint that can be used on a variety of surfaces. However, finding the best top coat for chalk paint can be a challenge. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

To simplify your search, here are five key points to consider when looking for the best top coat for chalk paint:

1. Durability: Look for a top coat that can withstand wear and tear, especially if you're using chalk paint on high-traffic pieces like furniture.

2. Finish: Consider the type of finish you want. Do you prefer a matte, satin, or glossy finish? Make sure the top coat you choose will give you the desired look.

3. Application: Make sure the top coat is easy to apply and dries quickly. You don't want to spend hours waiting for the top coat to dry.

4. Compatibility: Ensure that the top coat is compatible with chalk paint. Some top coats may react poorly with chalk paint, causing it to crack or peel.

5. Price: Consider your budget. While some top coats may be more expensive, they may offer better quality and durability.

In summary, when searching for the best top coat for chalk paint, consider durability, finish, application, compatibility, and price. By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the perfect top coat to protect and enhance your chalk paint projects.

10 Best Top Coat For Chalk Paint

1. Dixie Belle Flat Clear Coat (16oz) – Soft Matte Finish Polyacrylic Topcoat For Chalk-Friendly Furniture Paint. Made In Usa.

The Dixie Belle Paint Company's Flat Clear Coat (16oz) is a water-based polyacrylic clear coat that features a soft matte finish, making it ideal for any painted furniture. This paint is easy to work with, forgiving, and dries quickly, making it perfect for beginning or advanced restoration projects.

One of the standout features of Dixie Belle's Clear Coat is its soft matte finish, which has a beautiful rock-hard finish that lasts. It works well over chalk paint and is perfect for use on any furniture surface. Additionally, the low VOC's make it an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor use.

This DIY project paint is a water-based polyacrylic that gives the highest protective coating for your DIY projects. Whether you're restoring dressers, nightstands, bookshelves, or chairs, this clear coat will provide the final touch that protects your finished product.

Using Dixie Belle's Flat Clear Coat is straightforward. Simply use a Dixie Belle Paint Synthetic brush or Foam N Dandy Brush (sold separately) to apply a thin coat of the clear coat. For added protection, apply another coat after one hour. You can add up to three very thin coats as necessary.

Dixie Belle Paint Company is a family-owned and operated company that strives to provide the best experience to anyone who chooses their products. They are built on American values and true southern hospitality, and all their products are Made in the USA.

In conclusion, Dixie Belle Paint Company's Flat Clear Coat is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a water-based polyacrylic clear coat with a soft matte finish. It's forgiving, easy to work with, and dries quickly, making it perfect for beginning or advanced restoration projects. Additionally, it provides the highest protective coating for your DIY projects, ensuring that your finished product lasts.

2. Country Chic Paint's Furniture Painting Kit Includes A Pint Of Navy Blue Eco-Friendly Chalk Style Furniture Paint, A Paint Brush, And A Durable Clear Top Coat, Perfect For Beginners.

The Furniture Painting Kit for Beginners by Country Chic Paint provides everything you need to transform your furniture into a stunning masterpiece. This eco-friendly DIY chalk-style furniture paint bundle includes a 16 oz jar of Peacoat (Navy Blue) paint, a pint of Clear Coat durable furniture sealant, a Painting Sponge, a 1.5" Oval Paint Brush, a color card, and a tip sheet – all packed into one convenient box.

Designed specifically for novice furniture painters, this kit provides all the supplies and products you need to complete your furniture makeover from start to finish. The Peacoat paint included in the kit is an all-in-one decor paint that requires no priming, sanding, or waxing, making it easy to use even for beginners. One pint of paint can cover up to 60 square feet, allowing you to complete a large project such as a dresser or multiple smaller projects.

The clear top coat included in the kit offers durable protection for higher traffic furniture. Its crystal clear finish preserves the natural beauty of your furniture while ensuring long-lasting durability. The synthetic Oval Paint Brush and Painting Sponge included in the kit are ideal for applying smooth, even paint coats with no brush strokes, resulting in a flawless finish every time.

The Furniture Painting Kit for Beginners is perfect for anyone looking to give their furniture a new and refreshed look. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced furniture painter, this kit offers everything you need to create a professional-looking finish. The color card and tip sheet included in the kit provide helpful tips and guidance for achieving the best results.

In summary, the Furniture Painting Kit for Beginners by Country Chic Paint is an excellent choice for anyone looking to transform their furniture with ease. With its eco-friendly and easy-to-use paint, durable clear coat, and high-quality painting tools, this kit offers everything you need to create a stunning masterpiece.

3. 16oz Satin Clear Coat By Dixie Belle Paint Co. – Usa Made, Polyacrylic Topcoat For Chalk-Friendly Furniture Paint Finish.

Dixie Belle Paint Company's Satin Clear Coat is a water-based polyacrylic clear coat that boasts a beautiful satin finish. It is perfect for any painted furniture and is easy to work with, forgiving, and dries quickly. The low VOC’s make this an ideal product to use for indoor and outdoor applications. This easy-to-use paint is great for beginning or advanced restoration projects.

Dixie Belle Clear Coats have a rock-hard finish that lasts, making it ideal for use over chalk paint. It can be used on any furniture surface for a long-lasting, soft satin finish. Dixie Belle's clear coats are water-based polyacrylics that provide the highest protective coating for your DIY projects. Add this topcoat as the final touch on any restoration or refurbishing project of dressers, nightstands, bookshelves, chairs, and more.

Application of Dixie Belle Paint Company's Satin Clear Coat is simple. Use a Dixie Belle Paint Synthetic brush or Foam N Dandy Brush (sold separately) to apply a thin coat of Satin Clear Coat. For additional protection, apply another coat after one hour. Up to three very thin coats can be added as necessary.

Dixie Belle Paint Company is a family-owned and operated company based in the USA. The company is built on American values and true southern hospitality, and they strive to provide the best experience to anyone who chooses their products. All of their products, including the Satin Clear Coat, are Made in the USA.

In summary, Dixie Belle Paint Company's Satin Clear Coat is perfect for any painted furniture and is easy to work with, forgiving, and dries quickly. It boasts a beautiful satin finish that lasts and can be used over chalk paint. Application is simple, and the product is made in the USA.

4. Dixie Belle Gloss Clear Coat (16oz) For Chalk-Friendly Furniture Paint Finish – Made In Usa.

Dixie Belle Paint Company's Gloss Clear Coat is a high-quality water-based polyacrylic clear coat that delivers a beautiful, glossy finish to any painted furniture. The product is perfect for both beginners and advanced restoration professionals, as it is easy to work with, forgiving, and dries quickly. This low VOC product is suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

The Gloss Clear Coat offers a shiny, rock-hard finish that lasts, making it perfect for use over chalk paint. It can be applied to any furniture surface, including dressers, nightstands, bookshelves, chairs, and other DIY projects. The product is ideal for adding a final touch of protection to any restoration or refurbishing project.

To use the product, simply apply a thin coat of Gloss Clear Coat using a Dixie Belle Paint Synthetic brush or Foam N Dandy Brush (sold separately). Wait an hour and apply another coat for additional protection. Up to three very thin coats can be added as necessary.

Dixie Belle Paint Company is a family-owned and operated business in the USA, built on American values and southern hospitality. The company strives to provide the best experience to anyone who chooses its products. The Gloss Clear Coat is proudly made in the USA.

Overall, Dixie Belle Paint Company's Gloss Clear Coat is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a glossy finish to their furniture. The product is easy to use, provides a high level of protection, and is made with care in the USA.

5. Clear Matte Lacquer 1l Uv Sealant For Interior & Exterior Surfaces. Protects And Enhances Chalk Based Furniture Paint, Fast Drying, Low Odor, Suitable For Wood, Metal, And Glaze.

Hemway Clear Matte Lacquer is a versatile, multi-surface sealant that provides excellent protection and a top coat finish for a range of materials, including wood, metal, glaze, and chalk-based furniture paint. This product is British-made, ensuring quality and reliability.

One of the standout features of Hemway Clear Matte Lacquer is its ability to be used on almost any surface without the need for priming. This makes it ideal for use on furniture, fencing, woodwork, accessories, brick, wood, stone, plaster, plastic, ceramic tiles, and metal. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Hemway Clear Matte Lacquer is suitable for both interior and exterior use and is weatherproof, providing long-lasting protection from the elements. It has been tried and tested with all kinds of different applications, and there is no other product like it on the market.

The fast-drying, water-based formula of Hemway Clear Matte Lacquer means that it is easy to apply and dries quickly, allowing for multiple coats to be applied in a short amount of time. It is also low-odor, making it suitable for use in enclosed spaces without causing discomfort.

In addition to its protective qualities, Hemway Clear Matte Lacquer also provides a beautiful, matte finish that enhances the natural beauty of the material it is applied to. It is an excellent choice for those looking to add a top coat to their chalk-based furniture paint, providing a durable and long-lasting finish.

Overall, Hemway Clear Matte Lacquer is a high-quality, versatile product that provides excellent protection and a top coat finish for a wide range of materials. Its ease of use, fast-drying formula, and low-odor properties make it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

6. Rust-Oleum 287722 Ultra Interior Chalked Acrylic Paint 30 Oz, 30 Fl Oz (Pack Of 1), Clear Matte

Rust-Oleum 287722 Ultra Interior Chalked Acrylic Paint is a versatile and easy-to-use paint option for a wide range of interior surfaces. This pack of one 30 oz. can provides ample coverage, with the ability to cover up to 150 sq. ft. with just one coat.

The low-odor and VOC formula is designed to make clean up a breeze, with simple soap and water cleaning. The formula also dries to the touch in just 30 minutes, allowing for quick and efficient project completion.

This paint is perfect for those looking to create a vintage or shabby-chic look in their home or office. The paint easily distresses, allowing for a unique and personalized finish on wood, metal, ceramic, canvas, and other surfaces.

With excellent adhesion and easy application, minimal prep work is required for achieving a professional-looking finish. The protective topcoat delivers an ultra-matte velvety, smooth finish that is both durable and long-lasting.

Whether used for a small DIY project or a larger renovation, Rust-Oleum 287722 Ultra Interior Chalked Acrylic Paint is an excellent choice for those seeking an easy-to-use, high-quality paint option. With its ability to cover a wide range of surfaces and deliver a beautiful, vintage finish, this paint is sure to become a go-to for many interior projects.

7. Jolie Finishing Wax: Odor-Free, Non-Hazardous Topcoat Paint For Furniture, Walls, And Decor – Clear, 120 Ml.

Jolie Finishing Wax is a premium chalk finish paint wax that is perfect for creating custom finishes on interior furniture, cabinets, walls, home decor, and accessories. This odor-free and non-hazardous wax is available in a clear 120 ml jar and can be used to highlight texture and moldings on any surface.

The soft consistency of Jolie Finishing Wax makes it easy to apply and create a durable matte (flat) finish or a subtle sheen. To apply the wax, simply use a Jolie Wax Brush to apply it directly to a painted surface or raw wood. For best results, always apply Clear Finishing Wax to your piece before applying colored Finishing Waxes.

Jolie Finishing Wax is also water-resistant, ensuring that your finished project will last for years to come. Additionally, this product is available in a variety of colors to suit any project.

To purchase Jolie Paint for your project, simply search ASIN B09JHM8NT4 in the Amazon search bar. Jolie Paint works beautifully with the Jolie Finishing Waxes, making it the perfect pairing for any project.

When applying Jolie Finishing Wax, it is important to use a clean, absorbent, lint-free cloth to remove the excess wax. Use gentle pressure and be sure to keep turning the cloth to a clean spot so that it can continue to remove the excess wax rather than simply move it around on your surface.

For surfaces that may need added protection, such as table tops or cabinets, it is recommended to wait at least 8 hours before applying a second thin coat of Clear Finishing Wax.

Overall, Jolie Finishing Wax is a high-quality and versatile product that is perfect for any DIY project. Its easy application and durable finish make it a must-have for anyone looking to create custom finishes on their furniture, cabinets, walls, or home decor.

8. Venier Matte Clear Finish – 33.81fl.oz. Water-Based Acrylic Top Coat Sealer For Metal & Wood Furniture.

Venier Matte Clear Finish is a high-quality surface protection paint that provides a water-based acrylic top coat sealer. This clear matte paint is perfect for metal and wood furniture, adding a subtle yet intriguing feel to your belongings. With less substance, the transparent paint for wood creates a silky finish that is sure to catch the eye of your guests.

Whether you have old or new furnishings made of metal or wood, our Venier Matte Clear Finish can compound their quality to make them look even more brilliant, polished, and glossy thanks to its enamel coating. The matte transparent paint is easy to apply, requiring only one brush and an hour of drying time after application. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a hassle-free and efficient way to protect their furniture.

Not only is the Venier Matte Clear Finish easy to apply, but it also makes cleaning your surfaces easier than ever before. With just one coating of our surface paint, your furniture and surfaces at home will be easier to clean than ever before. This is because our matte paint for furniture is even easier to apply than traditional furniture wax and polish, leaving your surfaces with a long-lasting and durable finish.

Using the Venier Matte Clear Finish couldn't be simpler. All you need to do is open the can, stir the paint, and start painting. There is no need for any preparation, making our transparent paint for furniture and surfaces a quick and easy solution for your home.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-quality surface protection paint that is easy to apply and will make your furniture and surfaces look polished and glossy, then the Venier Matte Clear Finish is the perfect choice for you. It is a water-based acrylic top coat sealer that provides a clear matte finish, making it an ideal solution for metal and wood furniture. Not only is it easy to apply, but it also makes cleaning your surfaces easier than ever before. So, why wait? Get started with Venier Matte Clear Finish today and enjoy the benefits of a durable and long-lasting finish on your furniture and surfaces.

9. General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat, 1 Quart, Satin

General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat is a professional-grade polyurethane topcoat that is designed to provide a high level of protection and durability to interior surfaces. This topcoat is available in a satin finish and comes in a 1-quart container.

One of the key benefits of this topcoat is its exceptional durability. It is considered to be the hardest and most durable consumer polyurethane topcoat available on the market today. This means that it can provide long-lasting protection to interior surfaces, even in high-traffic areas.

Another advantage of this topcoat is its fast drying time. It only takes between 1 to 2 hours for the topcoat to dry between coats. This means that users can apply multiple coats in a single day, which can help to speed up the overall project timeline.

However, it is important to note that this topcoat may not be suitable for all types of surfaces. It is not recommended to apply clear topcoats over bright white paint, as this can cause yellowing due to a reaction to the substrate. Similarly, light-colored paints may also experience yellowing due to topcoat application, although this may be less noticeable.

This topcoat is designed for interior use only. It is not recommended for use on exterior surfaces or in areas with high moisture or humidity levels.

Overall, General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable topcoat for their interior surfaces. Its fast drying time and exceptional durability make it a popular choice among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. However, it is important to carefully consider the suitability of this topcoat for your specific project before using it.

10. Rustoleum 287722 30 Oz Matte Clear Chalked Protective Topcoat

The Rustoleum 287722 30 Oz Matte Clear Chalked Protective Topcoat is an essential addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolkit. This clear coating provides a protective layer over Chalked Ultra Matte paints, enhancing the color while also adding durability and longevity to any home decor piece.

The size of the can is 30 Oz, which is perfect for multiple projects. The clear color of the topcoat ensures that the original color of the base paint is retained. This topcoat is specifically formulated to work with Rustoleum's Chalked Ultra Matte paints. It is not recommended to use it with other paints.

The Rustoleum 287722 Matte Clear Chalked Protective Topcoat is an excellent choice for those who want to prolong the life of their home decor pieces. It not only gives a professional finish but also adds an extra layer of protection to the paint. The topcoat is ideal for protecting surfaces that are prone to wear and tear, such as kitchen cabinets, furniture, and decorative pieces.

The application of the topcoat is straightforward. The surface should be clean and dry before applying. The topcoat can be applied using a brush or a roller. The first coat should be allowed to dry for at least one hour before applying the second coat. The topcoat dries to the touch in approximately 30 minutes and can be recoated after 2 hours.

The Rustoleum 287722 Matte Clear Chalked Protective Topcoat provides a smooth and even finish. It is also easy to clean and maintain. The topcoat is water-resistant, making it suitable for use in areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

In conclusion, the Rustoleum 287722 30 Oz Matte Clear Chalked Protective Topcoat is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to protect their home decor pieces. It prolongs the life of the paint and adds durability, while also enhancing the color. It is easy to apply, dries quickly, and provides a smooth and even finish. This topcoat is a must-have for anyone who wants to take their DIY projects to the next level.

Best Top Coat For Chalk Paint FAQs

Can I use wax as a top coat for chalk paint?

Yes, wax can be used as a top coat for chalk paint. It provides a protective layer and adds a subtle sheen to the paint. However, it is important to note that wax can be prone to wear and tear, and may need to be reapplied periodically. It is also recommended to apply a clear wax to avoid any discoloration of the paint. Additionally, it is important to use a high-quality wax and to apply it properly, using a clean cloth and buffing in circular motions. It is also important to allow the paint to fully cure before applying the wax, typically around 24 hours. Overall, wax can be a great option as a top coat for chalk paint, but it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure a long-lasting and durable finish.

How do I apply a top coat to chalk paint?

To apply a top coat to chalk paint, you should first ensure that the chalk paint is completely dry. Then, use a clean brush or roller to apply a clear wax or sealer over the chalk paint. Make sure to apply the top coat evenly and in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. If you are using a wax, use a lint-free cloth to buff the surface after the wax has dried to achieve a smooth and polished finish. If you are using a sealer, follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time and any additional steps needed to ensure proper adhesion and protection. Applying a top coat to chalk paint will help to protect the surface from wear and tear and make it easier to clean and maintain over time.

What are the benefits of using a top coat for chalk paint?

Using a top coat for chalk paint offers several benefits, including protection against scratches, stains, and water damage. It also helps to enhance the durability of the painted surface, making it more resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, top coats provide a smooth and polished finish to the chalk paint, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the painted item. Top coats also help to prevent the paint from chipping or flaking, which can occur over time due to exposure to environmental factors. They can also help to prevent the paint from fading, which can occur when exposed to UV rays from the sun. Overall, using a top coat for chalk paint is a great way to protect and enhance the look of your painted surfaces, making them last longer and look better.

What are the best top coats for chalk paint?

Top coats for chalk paint should be durable, non-yellowing, and provide a protective layer against scratches and stains. The most popular top coats for chalk paint are water-based polyurethane, wax, and oil-based polyurethane. Water-based polyurethane is easy to apply and dries quickly, but may require several coats to achieve a durable finish. Wax provides a matte sheen and enhances the chalky look of the paint, but needs to be reapplied periodically. Oil-based polyurethane is the most durable option, but can yellow over time and requires proper ventilation during application. Other options include varnish, lacquer, and shellac, but these products may alter the appearance of the chalk paint. It is important to choose a top coat that is compatible with your chalk paint and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying time.

What is the difference between wax and polyurethane as a top coat for chalk paint?

Wax and polyurethane are two popular top coat options for chalk paint. Wax creates a smooth, matte finish and is ideal for achieving an antique or vintage look. It also adds a layer of protection to the paint, making it more durable. However, wax requires regular maintenance and reapplication to maintain its protective properties. Polyurethane, on the other hand, creates a hard, glossy finish and is available in various sheens. It provides superior protection against scratches, stains, and water damage. It is also low-maintenance and long-lasting. However, it can alter the color and texture of the underlying paint and may require extra preparation, such as sanding, to ensure adhesion. Ultimately, the choice between wax and polyurethane depends on the desired look, level of protection, and maintenance preferences.

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