Chalk Paint Buffet Makeover

I did it! I finally finished painting, distressing, and waxing that boring brown buffet in my family room. I love how it turned out. It was a learning process but I really loved using Annie Sloan's Old White Chalk Paint and Soft Clear Wax.

Before:

AFTER:

Here's what I did:
1. cleaned it off with a very slightly wet rag
2. applied 1 coat of chalk paint in Old White and THEN took off hardware (yes, I'm lazy)
3. sanded a few drips I missed when it was dry
4. 2nd coat of Old White chalk paint
5. applied the Soft Clear Wax with an old brush (following the grain)
6. when dry, I sanded really well in areas to distress - used medium and coarse sandpaper by hand, then medium via my husband's Mouse Sander (awesome)
7. vacuumed off dust (not all that much since I did the wax 1st)
8. used an old brush to lightly dab on some Minwax Dark Paste Finishing Wax (more in sanded areas and crevices/edges) and immediately wiped off with a clean rag
9. added some more Old White chalk paint in places that I thought were too dark/brown
10. waxed again with clear wax
11. buffed when dry (1 day later)
12. spray painted pulls in Krylon Brushed Metallic in Oil Rubbed Bronze (2 light coats) and put back on when dry

Okay, when I type them out, it does seem like a tedious and long process. But I must admit that it was fun to do because it was great seeing the transformation each step of the way. The chalk paint goes on so smooth and even though I had to use more to cover up the dark brown wood, it really went far. I only used 1/2 quart for 2 coats of this entire thing (plus a little more for touch ups here and there). It is really worth the price of the paint ($34.95) because you can paint it on ANYTHING without sanding or priming. You can even apply it to varnished furniture or on top of the wax coat I applied (in case I want to paint it later). It's really a great product.

Now, I want to investigate some other colors, but which ones? They are all so scrumptious, but I want to try the Provence next. How about you? Have I inspired you for some furniture makeovers this summer? :)