I recently discovered mineral paint, and couldn’t wait to share my experience with you. I have used chalk paint and heard of milk paint, but mineral paint was new to me. So I did some research to learn more.
What is mineral paint?
Mineral paint is paint that is made with mineral binding and coloring agents. Mineral paint binds to the surface of the painted item, creating a highly durable finish once the paint has cured. The mineral pigments are resistant to the effects of UV light, so the color does not fade over time.
mineral paint vs. chalk paint
+ Prep required
When using mineral paint, you should always clean and lightly sand the surface to be painted. Painting certain materials will require primer. When using chalk paint, manufacturers recommend cleaning and light sanding.
+ ease of use
Once the surface is prepped, mineral paint is quite easy to use and very forgiving. Although you can purchase special brushes specific to your project and application, it is easy to achieve a smooth finish without streaks or brushstrokes, using just a regular paintbrush or sponge brush. Dry time is quick, and you can apply another coat as soon as the paint is dry. Mineral paint does not need a top coat, so it is easy to complete a project with few steps in a short amount of time. Chalk paint is similarly forgiving, but requires additional steps (optional distressing, top coat application, buffing) to achieve a polished look and finish.
+ water resistance
Mineral paint is fully water resistant when cured. In contrast, chalk paint is not water resistant without a top coat.
+ Durability
Once cured, most mineral paints are very durable. They do not require a top coat, are resistant to chipping and scratching, and are scrubbable. Chalk painted surfaces are weak, requiring a topcoat to have any resistance to scratching, and should not be scrubbed.
+ UV resistance
Mineral paints have natural UV resistance and will not fade with exposure to light, making them good for outdoor applications. The UV resistance of chalk paint varies by brand; a topcoat can improve fade resistance.
+ colors and finish
Mineral paint has a wide range of colors, including bold and vibrant options. Chalk paint colors tend to be a bit more muted. Mineral paint gives a smooth matte finish, while chalk paint has a chalky flat finish. Surfaces painted with chalk paint usually project more of a shabby chic or farmhouse vibe.
my mineral paint project
I used Fusion mineral paint in Park Bench to complete a mirror makeover. The mirror was previously painted, so I just wiped it down with a damp cloth to prep. I applied two coats of mineral paint using a sponge brush, waiting about 45 minutes between coats. About an hour later, I rehung the mirror. It was that simple. A day or so later, I decided a little Rub ‘n Buff would really kick it up a notch, so I [imperfectly] applied some to the edges using my finger.
Fusion mineral paint worked like a dream! I was pleased with the ease of use and the results. I have enjoyed using chalk paint in the past, however, I liked that I did not have to apply wax and buff in order to have finished-looking results when using mineral paint. My aesthetic runs more traditional than farmhouse or shabby chic, so the mineral paint finish fit the look of my home more closely than chalk paint. Fusion’s website provides excellent guidance on surface prepping, brush choice, and optional finishing techniques, perfect for the novice painter.
Click here to view another easy makeover using Fusion mineral paint in Ash.
Have you tried mineral paint? Share your experiences and projects in the comments!