Milk paint vs Chalk paint: Better Choice for Furniture
If you’ve been scrolling through those dreamy before-and-after furniture makeovers online, you’ve probably seen two names a lot: milk paint and chalk paint.
When I first started DIY projects, I honestly thought paint was just… paint. But no! After plenty of weekend experiments and a few mistakes I’d rather forget, I learned that picking the right one makes a big difference.
So let’s break it down together: what I’ve learned, what actually works, and how you can skip the guesswork to create the gorgeous furniture flips you’ve been wanting.
What is Milk Paint?
Milk paint isn’t some trendy new invention; it’s actually been around for thousands of years. We’re talking ancient Egyptian tombs and colonial American farmhouses here. Pretty cool, right?
It’s made from natural ingredients like milk protein, lime, and earth pigments. Today’s versions come as a powder that you mix with water, kind of like making chocolate milk, except you end up with paint instead of a snack.
What makes milk paint special is its eco-friendly, kid-safe nature. No harsh chemicals or scary fumes, just natural ingredients doing their thing. It’s the paint your great-grandmother probably used, and it’s still going strong.
What Is Chalk Paint?
Now, chalk paint is the newer kid on the block, and it has made quite a splash since Annie Sloan introduced her version back in the 1990s.
Don’t let the name fool you, though it doesn’t actually contain chalk. It gets its name from that beautiful, chalky matte finish it creates.
The beauty of chalk paint is in its simplicity. You literally open the can and start painting. No mixing, no measuring, and no chemistry degree required. It’s like the instant coffee of the paint world, but in the best way possible.
Chalk paint is incredibly beginner-friendly, which explains why it has become so popular among weekend warriors and furniture-flipping enthusiasts.
Head-to-Head: Similarities Between Milk & Chalk Paint
| Similarity | Details |
|---|---|
| Matte Finish | Both milk paint and chalk paint give a smooth, flat, matte look without shine. |
| Minimal Prep Work | They adhere well to surfaces without heavy sanding or priming, saving time. |
| Great for Upcycling | Ideal for revamping furniture and creating distressed, antique-style effects. |
| Low VOC | Both are generally low in volatile organic compounds, making them safer for indoor use. |
Key Differences: Milk Paint vs Chalk Paint
Now here’s where things get interesting, because despite their similarities, these paints are actually quite different beasts.
| Category | Milk Paint | Chalk Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Comes as a powder; must be mixed with water. Getting the right consistency takes practice. | Ready-to-use straight from the can; more convenient. |
| Surface Compatibility | Best on raw, unfinished wood. Needs a bonding agent for glossy or finished surfaces. | Sticks to almost anything — wood, metal, glass, plastic, etc. |
| Finish & Style | Creates an uneven, patina-like finish; has a natural, free-spirited look. | Provides smooth, uniform, controlled coverage. |
| Durability | Requires a protective topcoat; otherwise, it may chip or flake. | More forgiving, but high-traffic pieces still need sealing. |
| Cost & Availability | $18–$38 per quart equivalent; often requires special ordering. | $16–$38 per quart; more widely available in stores. |
Which Paint is Better for Your Furniture?
Okay, so how do you actually make a choice? It ultimately comes down to the look you’re going for and the level of control you want over the process.
Pick milk paint if you’re dreaming of that hand-painted furniture with a cottagecore, true farmhouse look. If you love the idea of a finish that has some personality and you don’t mind a little unpredictability, milk paint is your friend.
It’s perfect for pieces where you want that naturally aged, “this has been in my family for generations” feel.
Go with chalk paint if you want convenience and variety. If you’re painting different materials, want a more controlled finish, or you’re just starting out with furniture painting, chalk paint is probably your best bet.
It’s also great when you want that modern, boutique-style look.
Practical Tips for Using Both Paints
For milk paint:
- Mix small batches as you go; it doesn’t keep well once mixed
- Use a bonding agent on any surface that isn’t raw wood
- Accept the texture, don’t fight the natural variation
- Apply thin coats and let each dry completely
For chalk paint:
- Stir well before use (the pigments settle)
- Use synthetic brushes for the smoothest finish
- Work in thin, even coats
- Sand lightly between coats for ultra-smooth results
Sealing both:
- Wax gives a soft, natural look but needs reapplication
- Polycrylic is more durable for high-use pieces
- Oil finishes uplift the natural beauty of milk paint
Wrapping It Up
Here’s what I’ve learned after years of furniture flipping: there’s no universal “winner” between milk paint and chalk paint; it’s all about finding your perfect match!
If you’re craving that real farmhouse charm and love a little different touch in your DIY projects, milk paint will steal your heart.
However, if you want foolproof results and maximum output, chalk paint is your most reliable friend.
My advice? Start with whichever one speaks to your current project and style. You might just find a new obsession! Remember, the best paint is the one that helps you create something you absolutely love.
Ready to change your next piece? Please drop a comment below and share details about your upcoming project.
