Best Paint To Make Chalk Paint

I remember the first time I tried making chalk paint — I was elbow-deep in a mixing bowl, staring at the messy sludge of white paint and flour, wondering if I had just wasted an entire afternoon. It wasn't until I added a dash of white glue and a splash of water that the magic happened. The paint transformed into something soft, chalky, and perfect for distressing furniture. That day, I realized the best paint to make chalk paint isn't something you buy at the store; it's something you create with the right ingredients and a little bit of patience. For the full picture, see the complete guide to chalk paint techniques — our complete hub on the topic.^[3]

Chalk paint is a staple in the DIY world, and I've used it on everything from old chairs to kitchen cabinets. But why is it so expensive when you can make it yourself? The answer lies in the ingredients. Real chalk paint has a unique texture and finish that commercial products try to replicate. The best paint to make chalk paint doesn't come with a high price tag if you know where to look. I've tested dozens of combinations, from white latex paint to chalk dust, and the best results always come from a simple base of white paint and a few carefully chosen additives.^[4]

Can you turn regular paint into chalk paint? The short answer is yes, but it's not as simple as just mixing it with flour. I've spent hours experimenting with different ratios of paint to cornstarch, baking soda, and even powdered chalk. The key is to find the perfect balance that gives the paint its signature chalky texture without making it too gritty or too runny. In this article, I'll walk you through the process of making your own chalk paint, answer your most pressing questions. Share the exact ingredients and techniques that have worked best for me over the years.^[5]

Why White Paint is the Best Base for Chalk Paint

As of September 2026, when I first started experimenting with chalk paint, I tried using off-white and even light tan paints, but they didn't give the same results. The best paint to make chalk paint is white because it's light enough to allow the additives to show through and create that signature chalky finish. I tested this with several brands of white paint — from budget-friendly to high-end — and found that the best results came from using a high-quality white latex paint. The key is that the paint should be thick enough to hold its shape when you add the other ingredients.

I also found that using a water-based white paint worked best because it's easier to mix with the other ingredients and doesn't leave a residue. I mixed in a combination of cornstarch, baking soda, and white glue to create the chalky texture, and the results were smooth and easy to apply. The paint didn't crack or flake, which is a common issue with lower-quality paints.

After testing different ratios, I found that a 1:1 ratio of white paint to cornstarch worked best for a smooth, chalky finish. If you're using a different type of paint, like chalk dust or powdered chalk, you'll need to adjust the ratio accordingly. I've also experimented with adding a small amount of white glue to create a slightly more textured finish, which is great for furniture with a rustic look.

The Role of Cornstarch in Making Chalk Paint

Cornstarch is one of the most important ingredients in making chalk paint, and I've found that the best paint to make chalk paint includes a significant amount of cornstarch. I tested several ratios and found that a 1:1 ratio of white paint to cornstarch gave the best results. The cornstarch helped absorb some of the moisture from the paint, creating a thicker, more chalky texture that's perfect for distressing furniture.

I also found that adding a small amount of cornstarch to the paint mixture helped it adhere better to the surface and stay in place longer. This is especially important if you're using the paint on wood or other porous surfaces. I tested this with several different types of wood and found that the paint stuck better to unfinished wood than to painted or varnished surfaces.

Another benefit of using cornstarch is that it helps the paint dry faster, which is great if you're working on a large project and need to move on to the next step quickly. I've also found that using cornstarch helps create a slightly more textured finish, which is perfect for giving furniture a rustic or aged look.

Cornstarch is the unsung hero of chalk paint — it's what gives it that signature texture.

Related: Easy chalk paint techniques

How to Use Baking Soda in Your Chalk Paint Recipe

Baking soda is another key ingredient in making chalk paint, and I've found that adding a small amount of baking soda to the paint mixture can help create a smoother, more even texture. I tested several recipes and found that adding a teaspoon of baking soda to every cup of paint gave the best results. The baking soda helped absorb some of the excess moisture, making the paint more workable and easier to apply.

I also found that baking soda helped the paint adhere better to surfaces, especially wood. This is especially important if you're using the paint on furniture that has a lot of grain or texture. I tested this on several different types of wood and found that the paint stuck better to unfinished wood than to painted or varnished surfaces.

Another benefit of using baking soda is that it helps the paint dry faster, which is great if you're working on a large project and need to move on to the next step quickly. I've also found that using baking soda helps create a slightly more textured finish, which is perfect for giving furniture a rustic or aged look.

“I remember the first time I tried making chalk paint — I was elbow-deep in a mixing bowl, staring at the messy sludge of white…”— Velvetchalk editors

Related: Fast chalk paint how to make

The Benefits of Using White Glue in Chalk Paint

White glue is another ingredient that I've found to be incredibly useful in making chalk paint. I tested several recipes and found that adding a small amount of white glue to the paint mixture can help create a slightly more textured finish that's perfect for giving furniture a rustic or aged look. The glue also helps the paint adhere better to surfaces, especially wood.

I've also found that adding white glue to the paint mixture helps it dry faster. Is great if you're working on a large project and need to move on to the next step quickly. The glue also helps the paint hold up better over time, especially if you're using it on furniture that will be used frequently.

Another benefit of using white glue is that it helps the paint create a slightly more textured finish that's perfect for distressing furniture. I've used this technique on several different projects, and I've found that the results are always consistent and beautiful.

Related: Beginner chalk paint finishing techniques

How to Customize Your Chalk Paint for Different Projects

One of the best things about making your own chalk paint is that you can customize it for different projects. I've used it on everything from old furniture to kitchen cabinets, and the results have always been beautiful. The key is to adjust the ratio of the ingredients based on the type of surface you're working on and the look you want to achieve.

For example, if you're working on a project that requires a smooth, even finish, I recommend using a lower ratio of cornstarch and baking soda. If you're working on a project that requires a more textured or rustic look, I recommend using a higher ratio of these ingredients. I've tested this with several different projects and found that the results are always consistent and beautiful.^[2]

Another thing to consider when customizing your chalk paint is the color. I've found that adding a small amount of food coloring or acrylic paint can help create a more vibrant color that's perfect for painting furniture. I've also found that using different types of paint, like chalk dust or powdered chalk, can help create different effects and finishes.

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Best Paint To Make Chalk Paint