Annie Sloan Chalk Paint: Cabinet & Floor Makeover

Annie Sloan is the master of chalk paint. I have used many different chalk paint brands and I always come home to Annie. I am, however, looking to replace her clear wax. The fumes are noxious. The Annie Sloan clear wax works wonderfully, but I am worried about my long-term health from excessive use. van Gogh has a clear wax alternative that is non-toxic and "safe to use on baby toys" according to the van Gogh Furniture Paintology website.  I chalk paint way too much to be using a wax that is potentially harmful to my health. Anyhow, I plan to do a major chalk painting project every week until school starts at the end of August. I have already made major progress with this incredible Annie Sloan "small space" makeover!

We live in a very old home closer to 200 than 100 years old. Civil war era. It makes for fun, yet challenging chalk paint projects. One of the most challenging areas is a teeny hallway that is both our laundry room area and adjacent to our tiny bathroom. The bathroom is so tiny the previous owners added a partial mirrored wall to give the illusion of a larger space. This space is highly trafficked when we have family or guests over. The goal was to create an enjoyable space to "feast your eyes on" while walking to the bathroom and I think that goal was achieved! At our local Annie Sloan emporium, I found the minty ladder of my dreams. This rustic ladder gave me the inspiration for the entire teeny area.

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The mint ladder is being using to hide the wicker laundry bin. I am also going to buy some Turkish or perhaps hand printed towels to hang on the steps. My fresh drying lavender gives off a beautiful herbaceous scent and the rustic chicken feeder turned light adds a warm glow to the dark hallway. There is one thing I forgot to take a photo of....the floor! I ended up having to paint it with old white and chateau grey. You will have to watch the above before and after video to see it. It was hard enough taking the photos you see here. The lighting is atrocious in that hallway!

I painted the surrounding walls with Annie Sloan Old White, which is a neutral that adds warmth to any room. The cabinets were painted with Chateau Grey and accented with the dark wax. I sealed the cabinets with the Annie Sloan Clear wax and then used the dark wax to pull out little details. Because the area is SO dark coupled with the darker chateau grey paint, the dark wax is absolutely necessary. The chateau grey was darker than anticipated and blends "into the shadows" of the wall. The dark wax gives the cabinets the depth and added rustic element they sorely needed. Dark wax tip: If you use too much dark wax, take your clear wax to remove the excess. The adorable candle in the corner is a botanical soy candle from Oh So Good Organics!

Please leave any questions or comments below. I would be happy to answer them. Happy chalk painting my friends!