Chalk painting furniture is a popular trend that allows you to transform old pieces with a fresh, shabby-chic style. While wooden furniture is most commonly chalk painted, with the right technique and preparation, you can also chalk paint metal items like filing cabinets. Chalk painting metal does require some special considerations to ensure proper adhesion and an attractive finished look. Follow this guide to learn how to properly prep, paint, distress, wax, and seal a metal filing cabinet using chalk paint for a weathered, vintage appearance.

What You’ll Need

Chalk painting a metal filing cabinet is relatively simple, but does require some key supplies and tools for the best results:

• Chalk paint – Use a high-quality brand formulated for metal and furniture, like Rust-Oleum Chalked Paint or ASCP (Annie Sloan). Avoid craft paints.
• Wax – For sealing and protection, use a clear furniture wax like Rust-Oleum Clear Chalk Paint Wax.
• Sandpaper – Both fine and coarse grits to prep the surface. Try 150 and 220 grit.
• Tack cloth – For removing dust between sanding.
• Paint brushes – At least one brush for applying chalk paint, and one for wax.
• Sanding block – Helps sand evenly and prevents abrasions.
• Drop cloth – For protecting surrounding surfaces from drips and dust.
• Gloves and mask – For safety when sanding metal and using paint products.
• Rags – For applying and removing wax.
• Orbital sander (optional) – Speeds sanding for a very smooth surface.

With these supplies on hand, you’ll be ready to transform your dated metal filing cabinet using chalk paint.

Prep the Cabinet for Painting

Proper prep is crucial when painting metal furniture for the paint to adhere correctly. Follow these steps to get your filing cabinet ready for a fresh chalk painted finish:

Clean the Surface

First, clean the metal cabinet thoroughly with a degreasing cleaner or soap and water. This removes any dirt, grease, or oil that could prevent proper paint adhesion.

Use a scrub brush and rinse well to ensure no residue remains. Allow the metal to fully dry.

Lightly Sand

Next, sand the filing cabinet lightly with fine 150 grit sandpaper. This helps rough up the slick metal surface so the chalk paint can grip.

Focus on scuffing any smooth or shiny areas of the metal. Be sure to sand inside the cabinet as well.

Remove Dust

Use a clean tack cloth to wipe away all dust left from sanding. This prevents specks in the chalk paint finish.

You can also vacuum the cabinet using a brush attachment.

Apply Primer

Most chalk paint brands recommend applying a primer first when painting metal.

This gives the paint something to bond to. For metal filing cabinets, Rust-Oleum All-Prime Spray is a top choice. Apply 2-3 even coats following the directions.

Now the filing cabinet is prepped and ready for painting with chalk paint!

How to Apply Chalk Paint to a Metal Filing Cabinet

With the right prep work complete, it’s time to start painting. Follow these tips for properly applying chalk paint to a metal filing cabinet for flawless coverage:

1. Start with Drawers Removed

If possible, remove all drawers from the cabinet and lay flat. This makes painting the cabinet box itself much easier.

You can chalk paint the drawers separately later.

2. Use Correct Brush Type

Look for a high-quality brush made for chalk paint or cabinet painting. Angled sash brushes work well.

Avoid cheap disposable brushes that could leave bristles behind.

3. Work Evenly in Sections

Plan your painting approach to coat systematically for even coverage. For a vertical filing cabinet, work top to bottom in 2-3 ft sections.

Maintain a wet edge as you paint and overlap sections slightly.

4. Apply Multiple Thin Coats

Chalk paint on metal may require 2-4 coats for full opaque coverage. Allow each coat to dry 2 hours before reapplying.

Thin coats prevent drips and provide a smooth finish. Let the paint dry thoroughly before distressing.

5. Paint Inside Cabinet and Drawers

Use a small trim brush to paint the cabinet interior, edges, hinges, and any hard to reach areas.

Follow the same process to paint removed drawers. Seal all sides for protection.

Now you can distress and seal the painted metal filing cabinet.

Distressing a Chalk Painted Metal Cabinet

For a vintage, worn look, you’ll want to distress your chalk painted filing cabinet using sandpaper and tools. Distressing allows the base metal to show through in spots for a timeworn style.

When to Distress

Only start distressing once the chalk paint is completely dry. Typically, wait at least 24 hours after the final coat.

Test paint in an inconspicuous spot to ensure it’s cured.

How to Distress

Here are two easy methods for distressing chalk paint on metal:

• Sand lightly – Use 150-220 grit sandpaper to gently rub paint away along edges, handles, corners etc.
• Use tools -Try a stiff wire brush, putty knife, or orbital sander to scrape, chip, and abrade paint from areas to expose metal.

Distress as lightly or heavily as desired for personalized character.

How to Wax and Seal a Chalk Painted Metal Cabinet

Waxing a chalk painted metal filing cabinet is important to protect the finish and prevent chipping or scratches. Here are tips for applying and removing wax:

1. Ensure Paint is Dry

Confirm paint is fully cured before waxing – wait at least 24 hours after final coat. Uncured paint can lift when wax is applied.

2. Use a Waxing Brush

Apply clear furniture wax using a natural bristle brush in thin, even strokes. Avoid using rags or sponges.

Work small sections at a time, about 2 sq. ft.

3. Remove Excess Wax with Rag

After 5-10 minutes, wipe away excess wax using a clean, dry lint-free cloth before it dries.

Buff gently to evenly blend and remove residue.

4. Allow Wax to Cure

Let the wax cure at least 24 hours before use. The bond strengthens over time.

Add a second thin coat of wax and buff again for extra protection.

With prep, painting, distressing, and sealing complete, you now have a gorgeous customized chalk painted filing cabinet with a chippy, antiqued look!

Tips for Successful Chalk Painted Metal Furniture

Follow these top tips to ensure your chalk painted metal filing cabinet turns out beautifully:

• Always clean and lightly sand metal prior to painting for proper adhesion.
• Apply recommended primer first to help paint grip smooth metal.
• Use high-quality chalk paint formulated specifically for metal and furniture.
• Allow sufficient drying time between paint coats according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Distress carefully in layers for a natural, varied look with paint and metal showing through.
• Apply wax in very thin layers, buffing well between coats for a smooth seal.
• Add additional protection to high use surfaces like tabletops or desktops.

With the right products, preparation, and techniques, you can easily transform metal filing cabinets and furniture with durable, decorative chalk paint.

Common Questions About Chalk Painting Metal

Chalk painting metal furniture like filing cabinets brings up some unique questions. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions:

Does Chalk Paint Adhere to Metal?

Chalk paint can adhere well to metal if the surface is properly prepped. Light sanding gives the paint something to grip. Priming also provides a base layer for paint to bond to. Top quality chalk paint made for metal provides maximum adhesion.

What Kind of Primer Should I Use?

For metal, an all-purpose spray primer like Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch is recommended. Apply 2-3 even coats over the sanded metal before painting. This helps the chalk paint grab and protects the metal beneath.

How Many Coats of Chalk Paint on Metal?

Metal often requires 2-4 thin coats of chalk paint for opaque, even coverage. The slick surface means paint doesn’t adhere as readily as wood. Apply patiently in layers, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before adding another.

Should Chalk Paint Be Waxed on Metal?

Yes, waxing is highly recommended after chalk painting metal. The wax seals and protects the finish from wear, scratches, and potential chipping. It also provides a subtle sheen. Apply wax in thin layers, buffing well between coats with a soft cloth for the best result.

Can I Use Colored Chalk Paint on Metal?

Absolutely! While some people associate chalk paint with a white distressed look, it also comes in a wide range of beautiful colors perfect for metal furniture. Have fun and pick a hue that suits your style – just follow all the same prep and application steps.

Now that you’re armed with all the essential techniques, you can chalk paint metal filing cabinets, shelves, desks, and more with confidence. Transform tired old metal furniture into stunning shabby chic focal points. With the right preparation and paint products, you can get beautiful, durable results. Try chalk painting metal chairs, carts, cabinets or anything else that could use some character. Have fun unleashing your inner artist!

How to Choose Chalk Paint Colors for a Filing Cabinet

One of the best parts of refinishing furniture with chalk paint is selecting a color palette. The wide range of chalk paint hues available means you can easily customize any piece. Follow this guide to pick the perfect colors for a filing cabinet makeover.

Consider the Room and Decor

Choose filing cabinet colors that will coordinate well with your existing room decor. If your space features lots of light neutrals, soft vintage paint colors like antique white or French linen would suit the palette. Or if your room has bold accent colors like navy blue, pair those with an equally dramatic deep green or inky black cabinet.

Paint a few swatch samples on cardboard to compare paint colors in the space.

Compliment Nearby Furniture

Try to pick a chalk paint color for the filing cabinet that complements other furniture and decor pieces nearby. For example, if your office also features a golden oak desk, cool paint shades like weathered gray or olive would contrast nicely. Or if there’s a white shabby chic hutch, choose a light airy blue or chippy cream paint for cohesion.

Tie the whole space together through coordinated color motifs.

Consider the Metal Color Showing Through

When distressing chalk paint on metal furniture, some of the original metal color will show through. Keep this in mind when selecting a paint color. For example, distressed white paint reveals a nice patina on antique bronze filing cabinets. And steel grays pair well with rubbed sage or light sea blue paint.

Play up the metal rather than covering it completely.

Choose Timeless over Trendy

Opt for versatile, timeless chalk paint colors for a filing cabinet rather than very bold temporary trends. Classic paint choices like French dusky blue, antique white, softened green and aged ivory will always look stylish.

Keep the paint subtle enough to work with future room changes.

Distress in Layers for Dimension

For lots of depth, distress your painted filing cabinet in layers using progressively lighter paint colors. For example, apply a dark charcoal basecoat, followed by a grayish blue layer, finishing with soft dove white on top. Sand and chip through the layers to reveal all the tones.

This adds beautiful dimension as the colors interact through distressing.

Consider Interior Cabinet Colors

For closed storage filing cabinets, also choose a nice complementary interior chalk paint color. For example, try pale blue inside a cabinet painted robin’s egg on the exterior. Or opt for vibrant red shelving inside a cabinet with neutral gray outer paint.

Have fun mixing and matching coordinating paint colors!

By considering the existing decor, metal base color, planned distressing, and cabinet interior, you can select the perfect custom chalk paint colors for filing cabinets. So get creative – your updated filing station will look hand painted one of a kind!

Prepping Metal Furniture for Chalk Paint

Preparing metal furniture properly is crucial for chalk paint to adhere correctly and avoid chipping or peeling. Follow this prepping process before painting metal with chalk paint:

Clean Surface

Remove any dirt, grease, or oils from metal furniture before painting. Clean thoroughly with a degreasing cleaner and let dry fully.

This prevents paint adhesion issues.

Sand Lightly

Lightly sand metal furniture using 150 grit sandpaper. Scuff up any shiny, slick areas just enough to rough up the surface.

This helps the chalk paint grip the smooth metal.

Remove Dust

Wipe all metal surfaces with a tack cloth after sanding to remove any dust or particles before painting.

Dust can get stuck in paint causing a gritty texture.

Apply Primer

Most chalk paint brands recommend applying 1-2 coats of primer specifically formulated for metal and chalk paint.

Priming provides extra adhesion on slick metal.

Remove Hardware

Remove any handles, pulls or knobs from furniture drawers or doors prior to painting if possible.

This allows full access to the surfaces.

Degrease Again

Give metal one final wipe down with degreaser after sanding to remove any oils released in the process.

Paint won’t stick if any residue remains.

Now your metal furniture is prepped and ready for chalk paint application!

How to Paint Metal Filing Cabinet Drawers

Filing cabinet drawers require some special consideration when painting to ensure full coverage and an even finish. Here are tips for flawlessly painting metal drawers with chalk paint:

Remove Drawers

If possible, remove all drawers from the cabinet and lay flat for easier handling while painting.

This provides access to the whole drawer surface.

Clean and Sand Interiors

Don’t forget to clean, degrease and scuff the interior surfaces of each drawer as well as the outer fronts and sides.

Paint adheres better on a roughened surface.

Use Angled Brush

Choose a good angled sash brush to smoothly coat the flat drawer front and get into the recessed inner parts.

The angle provides ideal control.

Paint Sides Evenly

Lay each drawer on a flat surface and paint the sides in sections, maintaining a wet edge for uniform coverage.

Prevent drips by keeping the paint layer thin.

Get Full Coverage

Use a small trim brush to work chalk paint into hinges, hardware holes or any hard to reach crevices.

This protects all exposed metal from rusting.

Seal All Sides

Don’t forget to paint the undersides and interior of each drawer for a finished look and rust prevention.

Fully sealing the metal prevents degradation.

With some careful prep and technique, you can chalk paint filing cabinet drawers for a flawless and durable finish that looks great inside and out!

Distressing Tips for Metal Furniture

Distressing chalk painted metal furniture helps create a worn, weathered look by revealing some of the original base material beneath. Here are handy tips for effectively distressing metal:

Sand Edges and Corners

Use 150-220 grit sandpaper to lightly rub paint away along sharp edges, curves, corners, grooves and handles.

These areas naturally show wear over time.

Try a Wire Brush

For great texture, use a stiff wire brush to scratch off paint in random spots to expose metal.

This mimics peeled paint in distressed furniture.

Focus on High Traffic Areas

Distress horizontal surfaces like tabletops, tops of cabinets, edges of shelves or desktops.

These accumulate the most character from use in real life.

Vary the Intensity

Blend heavy and light distressing for natural variation. Barely expose metal in some spots and heavily chip paint in others.

Inconsistencies look most realistic.

Work in Layers

For multi-tone distressing, apply paint colors in layers then sand through to reveal them.

This adds beautiful dimension to the finish.

Seal with Wax

Once you’ve achieved the desired distressing, apply wax to protect the paint and metal.

The wax prevents further paint damage.

Distressing is an art – start subtle and work up to the desired shabby chic style. The beauty is in the imperfections!

How to Wax Chalk Painted Metal

Waxing a chalk painted metal filing cabinet, desk, table or furniture piece is important to seal and protect the finish. Follow these tips:

Ensure Paint is Dry

Only apply wax once chalk paint is fully cured – typically 24 hours after the last coat.

Uncured paint will stick to wax brush bristles.

Use a Natural Bristle Waxing Brush

Wax won’t apply smoothly with rags or sponges. Use a good quality waxing brush designed for the job.

This allows even application of a thin wax layer.

Work in Small Sections

Apply wax in approximately 2 sq. ft sections using thin, even brushstrokes.

Small areas stay workable before wax dries.

Allow Wax to Haze and Dry

Let wax dry 5-10 minutes until barely tacky. Don’t let it harden completely.

This allows proper bonding with the paint.

Gently Remove Excess

Use a clean, dry rag to lightly buff off any excess wax before it fully dries.

Removing residue provides an even, subtle sheen.

Add Second Coat if Needed

For extra protection on frequently used pieces, apply an additional thin wax layer after 24 hours.

Built up wax stands up to wear and prevents paint chipping.

Let Fully Cure

Allow wax to harden 24 hours before use. The