Annie Sloan paint question

[LipglossHoney]

Hi, I've heard that this paint doesn't need mush sanding or a primer - yey.

Has anyone used it? Any good?

Also where do you buy it? I assumed it would be in B&Q etc but maybe not?

Thank you for your help.

You don't need sanding (although it goes on better if you do ime). Don't need primer. You do need to water it down before using (shop I bought it from advised that).

Works fine on furniture that isn't touched much. Doesn't work well on things that are get bashed into as part of everyday life - tables, doors etc.

Only certain shops sell it, and not B&Q. If you google you should be able to find your nearest stockist. I've bought mine from a tiny store in Leics.

I've used it a fair bit but am still unsure of its merits. I have a wardrobe and a couple of chests of drawers that look great, and a coffee table, door and table that look terrible and need repainting with something more durable.

I agree with what FmF said, plus:

Rust-O-Leum do a chalk paint range that seems to be well reviewed, and is available in Homebase. Limited range of colours, though.

You don't need to sand, though I usually do a light sand and of course a clean. I have, however, used it to paint a kitchen table and chairs that were heavily varnished, with almost no sanding. It went on fine but a year on it is very chipped, grubby and worn - I can live with that because my table, bench and chairs cost me £20 total [bargain junkie preen] and also because they're country style so I've just mentally classified them as shabby chic. If you don't want the battered look, though, I wouldn't use chalk paint on stuff that will be bashed around.

I've also used it on low traffic furniture - side tables etc - and the effect has been really good.

It's really worth taking time to wax properly, and do at least three coats.

You can order Annie Sloan online. The accessories are very expensive - I bought one good quality brush, but I don't think that's vital. For waxing, I just use lint-free cloth.

Just to add: it really is bliss not to have to do all that prep (easily the worst bit about painting). But AS paint is very different and I would recommend trying it out first on something you don't mind going wrong with.