When it comes to chalk paint, DIYers and upcyclers are truly spoilt for choice. From heritage brands to modern disruptors, the UK market offers a host of options to suit every type of project. Whether you’re revamping a vintage dresser or transforming a tired kitchen cabinet, selecting the right chalk paint can make all the difference. To help you decide, we’ve taken a closer look at four popular brands - including our very own Hemway - to see how they stack up across finish, ease of use, coverage, and more.

Hemway – Best for Colour Range and Coverage

If you're after a chalk paint that strikes the perfect balance between performance and aesthetics, Hemway is an outstanding choice. Available in an impressive 118 shades, it offers more colours than any other brand in this round-up, giving you near-limitless creative freedom.

The ultra-matt, chalky finish delivers a rich, modern look, and the paint adheres beautifully to most surfaces with minimal prep - no priming or sanding required in most cases. One litre covers up to 16m², making it ideal for larger projects or multiple smaller ones. Better still, it’s touch dry in just 2 hours, and has a low VOC content, so it’s safer for indoor use and kinder to the environment. While a separate sealant is recommended for extra durability, the final finish is well worth the extra step.

With its blend of user-friendliness, eco credentials, and standout colour options, Hemway chalk based furniture paint is a firm favourite for both beginners and experienced crafters.

Key Specifications:

  • 118 colours
  • Low VOC, eco-friendly
  • Touch dry in 2 hours
  • Up to 16m² coverage per Litre
  • £24.95

Annie Sloan – Best for Versatility

Often regarded as the original chalk paint pioneer, Annie Sloan has built a reputation for versatility and quality. Its velvety ultra-matt finish creates a luxurious look, while the formula is forgiving and easy to work with. Most surfaces won’t require sanding or priming, which is great news for time-poor decorators.

Each litre covers around 13m², and while drying time isn’t precisely stated, it typically cures well within a day. Annie Sloan paint is low in VOCs and ideal for creative techniques like distressing or layering. However, you’ll need to apply a wax or lacquer to seal the surface, which may add an extra step depending on your project goals. With a curated palette of 43 colours, it’s a solid middle ground between variety and simplicity.

Key Specifications:

  • 43 colours
  • Approx. 13m² coverage per Litre
  • Low VOC
  • £26.95

Rust-Oleum – Best for Budget-Friendly Projects

If affordability is top of your list, Rust-Oleum chalk paint is hard to overlook. Priced competitively at £14.99 per litre, it’s a fantastic option for quick, budget-friendly makeovers. The finish is smooth matt rather than ultra-matt, and it performs well on a range of surfaces. However, you may need to prime porous materials, which can slow down your workflow.

Coverage is decent at approximately 14m² per litre, and the drying time ranges from 1 to 4 hours, depending on your environment. Like others, Rust-Oleum is low in VOCs, making it suitable for indoor projects, though the colour palette is more limited with just 16+ shades currently available. A sealing topcoat is recommended to protect your finish.

Key Specifications:

  • 16+ colours
  • Touch dry in 1–4 hours
  • Low VOC
  • £13.99

Frenchic (Lazy Range) – Best for Self-Sealing Simplicity

Frenchic’s Lazy Range stands out for its self-sealing, wax-infused formula, meaning there’s no need for an additional topcoat - a real bonus for beginners or those looking for a quicker process. The finish is ultra-matte, giving a soft, lived-in look that’s especially suited to shabby chic or farmhouse styles.

It’s self-priming, so no need for undercoats, and its minimal VOC rating makes it a safe, low-odour choice. While coverage specifics aren’t published, the brand is generally known for good spreadability. With 18+ colours available in this particular range (and more in others), it’s a well-loved option for fuss-free upcycling. A 750ml tin costs £22.95, so do keep size in mind when comparing price per litre.

Key Specifications:

  • Self-priming
  • 18+ colours in Lazy Range
  • £22.95 750ml
  • Wax-infused for self-sealing

The Final Brushstroke

Whether you're breathing new life into a family heirloom or adding character to a charity shop find, the right chalk paint will elevate your project. For those seeking exceptional colour range, strong coverage, and eco-friendly performance, Hemway’s chalk based furniture paint comes out on top. Designed with both style and substance in mind, it’s an easy-to-use paint that delivers professional-looking results.

So, ready to get painting? Choose your shade, prep your surface, and let your creativity run wild.

By Sarah Spragg
Published: 16 Jul 2025
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