Every furniture project starts the same way. A piece sits in front of you, full of potential and a little uncertainty. Maybe it is a thrift store find. Maybe it has been in your family for years. And almost everyone asks the same quiet question.
Do I really need to prep this before chalk painting?
Granny B’s Old Fashioned Chalk Paint was created to make furniture painting less intimidating. It adheres beautifully with far less prep than traditional paints. Still, a small amount of thoughtful preparation helps ensure smoother coverage, better durability, and a finish you will love living with.
Why Prep Still Matters With Chalk Paint
Chalk paint sticks to most surfaces, but furniture often carries buildup you cannot see. Old polish, oils from hands, and everyday grime can prevent paint from bonding properly.
Preparation is not about making the process harder. It is about removing anything that gets in the way of a beautiful finish.
Step 1. Clean the Furniture Thoroughly
Cleaning is the most important step and the one most often skipped.
Use warm water with mild dish soap or a gentle degreaser. Wipe down every surface, paying close attention to drawer fronts, edges, and handles. These areas collect oils that can interfere with paint adhesion.
Let the piece dry completely before moving on.
Many experienced painters say this one step alone dramatically improves their results.
Step 2. Check the Surface Condition
Once clean, take a moment to look closely at the furniture.
If old paint is peeling or flaking, gently remove only what is loose. If veneer is lifting, secure it before painting. Chalk paint adheres best to solid, stable surfaces.
You do not need to strip or sand everything. Just make sure the piece is sound.
Step 3. Light Sanding if Needed
Granny B’s Old Fashioned Chalk Paint does not require heavy sanding.
However, lightly scuffing glossy surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper can help the paint glide on more smoothly. This is especially helpful for furniture flippers who want a refined finish.
After sanding, wipe away dust with a damp cloth and allow the piece to dry.
Step 4. Address Stains and Bleed Through
Dark woods, knots, and water stains can sometimes bleed through paint over time.
If your piece shows visible stains or is made from a wood known for bleed through, spot priming those areas is a smart preventative step. Full priming is rarely necessary.
Step 5. Final Prep Before Painting
Remove hardware if possible or protect it carefully. Make sure the surface is clean, dry, and dust-free.
At this point, your furniture is ready for chalk paint.
Do You Really Need to Prep Furniture Before Chalk Painting
Here is the honest answer.
You do not need to over-prep.
You do need to prep intentionally.
Granny B’s Old Fashioned Chalk Paint is forgiving and beginner-friendly. These simple steps just help it perform at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to sand before using chalk paint
No. Heavy sanding is not required. Light sanding is optional.
Can I paint over old paint
Yes. As long as the surface is clean and stable.
What happens if I skip cleaning
Paint may not adhere evenly or last as long.
Is chalk paint good for flipping furniture
Yes. It is popular for its ease, speed, and finish quality.
A Simple Invitation to Begin
Furniture painting does not have to be complicated. With a clean surface, a little intention, and Granny B’s Old Fashioned Chalk Paint, even first projects can turn out beautifully.
Preparation is simply the quiet first step toward giving a piece a new story.