Milk Paint vs. Chalk Paint: Simple Guide & Tips
When I first tried to paint my room, I didn’t think much about the type of paint I used. I just picked a color I liked, big mistake. The finish didn’t last, and I had to repaint way too soon.
That’s when I realized not all paints are the same.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through the two main kinds of paint, milk paint and chalk paint. I’ll explain what each one is, how they work, and why picking the right one matters more than you think.
I learned the hard way, so you don’t have to. Stick with me, I’ll make it simple and help you pick the paint that actually works for you.
What is Milk Paint?
Milk paint is one of the oldest kinds of paint, made from natural things like milk protein (casein), lime, clay, and water. Sometimes, natural powders are added for color.
It comes as a powder and is mixed with water right before using. Since it doesn’t have strong smells or harsh chemicals, it’s a safer choice indoors or around kids and pets.
It’s great because it’s eco-friendly, dries fast, and gives a soft, vintage look. It’s perfect for raw wood and adds a light, chalky finish that many people like for old furniture and craft work.
But there are a few downsides. You have to mix it yourself, and if the surface isn’t prepared well, it can flake off. It also doesn’t last long outdoors.
Still, if you want a natural, simple paint for inside projects, milk paint is a solid choice.
What is Chalk Paint?
Chalk paint is a thick, water-based paint known for its smooth, matte finish. It’s made with water, calcium carbonate (which gives it that chalky feel), and color pigments.
It became popular in the 1990s when Annie Sloan created and branded it to make painting furniture easier and faster, without sanding or priming.
One big plus is how easy it is to use. It sticks to most surfaces with little prep and dries quickly. It gives a soft, vintage look and can be sanded for a worn effect.
It’s great for creative finishes like layering or distressing. But it’s not perfect. It can chip over time and usually needs a wax or sealant to protect it.
Chalk paint is best for furniture, décor, and smaller home projects where you want a worn or rustic look without much prep work.
Chalk Paint vs. Milk Paint: A Comparison
I’ve used both on different projects, and each one has its strengths. Sometimes, I wanted a natural look and reached for milk paint. Other times, I needed something quick and easy, and chalk paint made more sense.
Choosing the right one depends on what you’re working on, how much prep you want to do, and the kind of look you’re going for. Here’s how milk paint and chalk paint match up:
| Feature | Milk Paint | Chalk Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Application & Ease |
Needs mixing; may require bonding agent, brush, or sprayer; dries fast |
Ready to use, little to no prep, brush or roller, easy for beginners |
| Time Required |
Quick drying; prep adds extra time |
Quick drying, minimal prep saves time |
| Tools Needed |
Mixing container, brush, and optional bonding agent |
Brush or roller; wax brush if sealing |
| Finish & Appearance |
Matte, chalky, gives a soft, vintage, uneven look |
Smooth, matte, clean finish; can distress edges |
| Durability & Maintenance |
Without topcoat: flakes easily; With topcoat: better hold |
Without seal: scratches/chips; With wax/sealant: stronger finish |
| Surfaces & Versatility |
Best on raw wood; needs bonding for glossy surfaces |
Works on wood, laminate, metal, glass, and plastic with little prep |
| Health & Safety |
Low to zero VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds); pet and kid-safe; eco-friendly |
Usually low VOC Volatile Organic Compounds); pet-safe after drying; some waxes may have a slight odor |
Which Paint Should You Choose?
Each type of paint has its strengths, and picking the right one depends on what you’re working on and how you want it to look in the end.
If you’re painting cabinets or anything that gets touched a lot, chalk paint is usually the better choice. It holds up well, especially when sealed, and is easier to wipe clean.
For a dresser or wooden nightstand, both paints can work, but milk paint gives a soft, uneven, vintage feel that looks great on older furniture.
For metal or plastic décor, chalk paint is the easier option. It sticks well without needing extra prep. When it comes to outdoor use, neither paint is perfect unless you seal it well, but milk paint tends to wear out faster in the weather.
If you’re just getting started, chalk paint is more beginner-friendly. But if you’ve painted before and enjoy a natural, handmade look, milk paint might be more your style.
Why Milk Paint and Chalk Paint Feel So Similar
Even though milk paint and chalk paint have their differences, they do share a lot in common. Both give a soft, matte finish that’s perfect for vintage or farmhouse-style looks. They’re also great for DIY projects like painting furniture, signs, or home décor.
You don’t need to be a pro to use either one; both are beginner-friendly with the right prep. Plus, they dry quickly, making it easy to finish a project in less time.
They also come in lots of soft, natural colors and can be layered or distressed for a worn-in feel. Both paints work best with a sealant to protect the finish and make it last longer.
So in many ways, they’re more alike than you’d think.
Best Brands & Where to Buy Them
When it comes to trusted paint brands, a few names stand out.
For chalk paint, Annie Sloan is the original and still one of the best. It’s known for its smooth texture and strong finish. Rust-Oleum Chalked is another good choice, easier to find in stores and budget-friendly. It comes in lots of colors and is easy to use.
For milk paint, The Real Milk Paint Co. is a top pick. Their paints are natural, safe, and work great on wood. Another great option is Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint, known for its pretty, soft colors and vintage finish.
You can find these brands on Amazon, Lowe’s, Home Depot, or the brand websites.
Annie Sloan products are sometimes only available at special stockists or online shops. Real Milk Paint is usually sold online.
Always check for reviews and product details before buying, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Even though milk paint and chalk paint are easy to use, small mistakes can lead to big problems if you’re not careful. Knowing what to watch out for can save you time, money, and frustration.
Here’s a list of the most common painting issues and how to handle them:
- Peeling: Happens when the surface isn’t properly cleaned or sanded. This is common with milk paint, especially on shiny surfaces. Sand off loose paint, clean the area, and repaint. Using a bonding agent with milk paint helps it stick better.
- Streaking: Caused by thick paint, uneven brush strokes, or using the wrong brush. Chalk paint can streak if applied with too much pressure. Use a soft brush, apply smooth strokes, and sand lightly between coats for an even look.
- Bubbling: Often shows up when the surface is dusty, oily, or damp, or if painting is done in high heat or humidity. Let the bubbles dry, sand them smooth, clean the area, and repaint under better conditions.
- Uneven finish: Happens when milk paint isn’t mixed well or when layers are too thin. Stir milk paint thoroughly before use and apply even coats, allowing each one to dry fully.
- Chipping too soon: Common when paint is applied to glossy surfaces without prep or if no topcoat is used. Let the paint cure for at least a few days and use a wax or sealer for protection.
- Too thick or clumpy paint: This can occur when milk paint sits too long after mixing. Stir often while painting and mix small batches to avoid waste.
- Wrong surface prep: Skipping cleaning or sanding can lead to many issues, like peeling, poor adhesion, or uneven finish. Always clean surfaces and lightly sand if needed before painting.
- Skipping a topcoat: Without a sealant, both paints can wear down fast. Use wax, polycrylic, or another topcoat to keep the finish looking good and lasting longer.
Conclusion
Now you know what makes milk paint and chalk paint different and where each one works best. I’ve learned that the “right” paint really depends on what you’re working on and the kind of look you want.
You can now decide based on your project, your skill level, and your finish preference.
If you want something natural and rustic, go with milk paint. If you need something quick and easy, chalk paint is the way to go.
Just remember: prep well, use the right tools, and don’t skip the topcoat.
There’s always more to learn, especially with DIY. If you found this blog helpful, check out my other posts for more painting tips, project ideas, and honest advice.
Your next paint job just got easier, so keep going!
