Can You Chalk Paint Old Metal China Cabinet?

An Introduction to Chalk Paint

Chalk paint, also known as mineral paint or milk paint, has a soft, matte finish that works well for creating a distressed, vintage look. It goes on smoothly and adheres well to a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, laminate, and more.

Some key advantages of chalk paint include:

• Requires minimal surface preparation – light sanding is often sufficient
• Can be applied directly on top of existing finishes
• Provides good coverage and often only needs 1-2 coats
• Dries fast, enabling multiple coats in one day
• Produces a lovely matte finish that distinguishes it from other paints
• Can be easily distressed to achieve an antiqued, weathered effect

Brands like Annie Sloan and Americana are popular for their quality chalk paints in a wide range of colors. With proper prep work, chalk paint presents an excellent option for DIY metal cabinet makeovers.

Preparing a Metal Cabinet for Chalk Paint

Proper preparation is key to achieving great results with chalk paint on metal. Here are some tips:

• Clean the surface thoroughly – Remove any dirt, grease, or wax with a degreasing cleaner and rinse well. Let dry fully.
• Sand lightly – Use 220-400 grit sandpaper to lightly scuff the surface. This helps the paint adhere better.
• Remove loose paint – If there is already paint on the cabinet that is cracking or peeling, scrape and sand these areas to remove loose material.
• Prime – Priming with a bonding primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 will improve adhesion on slick metal surfaces.
• Use painter’s tape – Tape off any adjacent surfaces you don’t want to get paint on. Remove hardware like knobs to paint separately.

Proper prep removes any barriers between the chalk paint and metal so the finish will be long-lasting.

Applying Chalk Paint to a Metal Cabinet

Painting technique is also key for a smooth chalk painted finish:

• Use a high-quality nylon or polyester brush made for chalk paint. Look for a brush with fine tapered bristles.
• Apply in smooth, even strokes and avoid over-brushing. Chalk paint dries fast, so work in small sections.
• Thin coats are better than thick! Thin, even layers provide the best coverage.
• For full opaque coverage, two coats are typically needed. Sand lightly between coats with fine 320 grit sandpaper.
• If desired, a third layer of dark wax can be applied on top to seal and protect the finish.
• Pay attention to details like edges and trim to fully cover. Use small craft brushes for these areas.

With some patience and proper technique, chalk paint can give a metal cabinet a smooth and consistent distressed finish.

Achieving a Distressed Look

One of the appeals of chalk paint is that it lends itself beautifully to achieving a timeworn, distressed finish. Here are some tips for distressing chalk paint on metal:

• Allow paint to dry fully – distressing works best on fully cured paint.
• Use coarse (120-150 grit) sandpaper to rub away paint slightly in areas you want to show wear. Focus on edges, corners, and handles.
• Try wet distressing by wiping cabinets with a wet rag to create subtle streaks and spots where paint is removed.
• Use a paint scraper or 5-in-1 tool to chip away paint in certain areas to mimic flaking and scrapes.
• Sand or scrape to reveal metal underneath, which adds to the worn appearance.
• Apply dark wax and wipe away excess to let it pool in distressed areas for an antiqued effect.

Start subtly and build up the distressing for the desired vintage look. Sealing with wax helps protect the finish.

Tips for Painting Metal Cabinet Hardware

For a cohesive distressed look, the hardware should be updated along with the cabinet itself. Some options include:

• Remove hardware to paint separately – This allows full paint coverage on cabinet. Fill any holes.
• Paint hardware in place using painter’s tape around each piece. Use thin coats.
• Spray paint works well for metal hardware like hinges and handles. Provides smooth coverage.
• Rub wax on hardware too to age and match cabinet’s distressed finish.
• Replace with vintage-look hardware like antique brass pulls to complement the updated cabinet.

Paint, wax, or replace hardware as needed to complete the vintage metal cabinet revamp.

Protecting the Finish

Chalk paint has a more porous, matte finish than other cabinet paints. While this lends itself well to distressing, it also means the finish requires some protection, especially on frequently used pieces like cabinets. Here are some top tips:

• Apply a coat of clear wax to seal and protect the finish. Buff to a sheen.
• Top wax with a polyacrylic sealer for added protection and durability. This seals the wax.
• Re-apply wax 1-2 times per year as needed to refresh and maintain the finish.
• Avoid placing very hot items directly on the surface. Use hot pads.
• Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Touch up any scratches/damage right away to avoid erosion of the finish over time.

With proper prep, application, and care, your antique metal cabinet can take on a whole new life with chalk paint! The distressed matte finish gives metal a vintage cottage charm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chalk Painting Metal Cabinets

Can you use chalk paint on rusty metal?

Yes, chalk paint can be used to cover rusty metal. Make sure to thoroughly sand and remove any loose rust first. Priming with a rust-inhibiting primer adds a protective base layer.

What sheen is best for painting metal cabinets?

Chalk paint has an inherently matte, velvety finish that works well on metal cabinets. The matte appearance helps hide imperfections. A flat finish (no sheen) is ideal.

Should I etch the metal before painting?

Etching isn’t mandatory but can improve paint adhesion. It chemically roughens the slick metal surface so paint grabs better. Use an etching primer or phosphoric acid solution.

How do you antique a chalk painted metal cabinet?

Distressing, using dark wax, adding chips/scratches, and replacing hardware with vintage-look ones are all techniques to antique chalk painted metal cabinets for a timeworn look.

Does chalk paint yellow over time?

When properly sealed with wax, chalk paint has good color retention and should not yellow much over time. Re-apply protective wax periodically to protect the finish.

Conclusion

With some careful preparation and technique, chalk paint is an excellent choice for reviving old metal cabinets and furniture. The matte finish hides flaws beautifully while allowing for authentic distressed effects. Follow the tips above for applying chalk paint smoothly and distressing for a vintage look. Protect the finish by sealing with wax andpolishing regularly. With a little effort, your outdated metal cabinet can become a stunning centerpiece with farmhouse charm using versatile chalk paint!