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2025 Artist’s Guide: Chalk Paint vs. Acrylic for Paper & Art Projects: What Every Maker Should Know

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Whether you're creating mixed media artwork, or working on a handmade book cover, choosing the right type of paint can make all the difference. Two popular choices among DIYers and artists alike are chalk paint and acrylic paint—but they each have their own strengths, textures, and best-use scenarios.

In this post, I will explore the key differences between chalk paint and acrylic paint, including their composition, finish, ease of use, and when to use each.


Acrylic Paint Supplies in my studio that I have collected
Acrylic Paint Supplies in my Studio

What Is Chalk Paint?

Chalk paint is a water-based paint known for its soft, matte finish and signature chalky texture. It’s made with calcium carbonate, which gives it a velvety appearance and excellent coverage.

Beloved by artists and bookmakers alike, chalk paint adheres well to a variety of surfaces—often without sanding or priming—and is perfect for creating a weathered, vintage look.

Why I Use It: In my own studio, I often use chalk paint for book covers and paper-based projects. The matte surface prevents pages from sticking together, and it plays beautifully with layered techniques like gel printing and collage.

My Current Favorite: One chalk paint line I keep reaching for is Fresco Finish Chalk Acrylic Paints by PaperArtsy. These paints are multi-surface, fast-drying, and beautifully matte, eliminating the need for a base coat like gesso—because they’re essentially tinted chalk bases in themselves.

With a palette of 182 colors, they offer a wide range of opacities too.

  • High-opacity colors provide excellent coverage, ideal for bold backgrounds or base layers.

  • Low-opacity colors (often brighter shades like reds and yellows) are perfect for transparent layering and color mixing—great for artists who love depth and subtlety in their work.

If you're new to painting, starting with the opaque shades can help avoid muddiness while building confidence with layering with additions of dye sprays and inks.


What Is Acrylic Paint?

Acrylic paint is a versatile, water-based medium that dries to a flexible, durable, and often water-resistant finish. It's widely used for everything from fine art to furniture, offering rich pigmentation and an enormous range of colors.

Unlike chalk paint, acrylics can dry to a variety of finishes—from satin to glossy—and hold up well in high-traffic or functional pieces.


Side-by-Side Comparison

Characteristic

Chalk Paint

Acrylic Paint

Base

Water-based with calcium carbonate

Water- or solvent-based with acrylic resin

Finish

Matte, chalky, will not stick to papers that are side by side

Glossy, satin, or matte

Adhesion

No priming needed on most surfaces

May need primer on slick or glossy surfaces

Durability

Less durable, more decorative

Highly durable and water-resistant

Color Mixing

soft color mixing range

Easy to mix custom shades

Price

Typically higher

Can be more affordable depending on brand.

Best Use

Distressed, vintage, and decorative looks

Mixed media, and art application

Pros and Cons


Chalk Paint

Advantages:

  • Beginner-friendly and forgiving

  • Excellent surface adhesion

  • Beautiful matte finish with vintage potential

  • Minimal prep work required

Disadvantages:

  • Less durable for surfaces that receive frequent wear without using a final finish.

  • Can be more expensive than acrylics

  • Might need sealing with wax or topcoat for longevity on surfaces that will get wear and tear depending on application.

Best For:

  • Paper, wood, furniture, decorative surfaces, handmade book covers, and gel printing techniques.

How to Use Chalk Paint:

  1. Clean your surface.

  2. Apply a thin coat with a brush, roller, or sponge to the surface or gel plate.

  3. Let dry completely.

  4. Seal with wax or clear finish for protection.


Acrylic Paint

Advantages:

  • Durable and long-lasting

  • Vibrant colors and wide mixing possibilities

  • Versatile for use on wood, canvas, paper, and fabric

  • Readily available and budget-friendly

Disadvantages:

  • May require surface priming

  • Difficult to remove once dry

Best For:

  • Furniture, canvas paintings, wall décor, wood signs, and high-use items

How to Use Acrylic Paint:

  1. Clean the surface.

  2. Prime if needed (especially on laminate or glossy surfaces).

  3. Apply thin, even coats with a brush or roller on paper or gel plate.

  4. Allow to dry between coats.

  5. Finish with a clear varnish for extra durability.


Choosing the Right Paint for Your Project

Ask yourself:

  • What surface am I painting?

  • Do I want a matte, distressed look or a smooth, bold color finish?

  • Will the item be handled or used often?

  • What’s my budget for paint and supplies?


If you're after a soft, vintage aesthetic or working on paper-based projects, chalk paint might be your best match. But if your piece needs to stand up to everyday wear—or you're mixing bold colors—acrylic is the way to go.


Where to Buy Chalk Paint

You can find chalk paint in many stores and online marketplaces. Here are a few popular sources:

  • Home improvement stores

  • Craft stores

  • Online retailers

  • Specialty paint shops / Often carry broader ranges of color and finish options


    You can also find Fresco Finish Chalk Acrylic Paints by PaperArtsy through select art supply retailers and online specialty shops. One reliable U.S. source is Joggles.com, which carries a wide range of PaperArtsy products. You can also explore options on Etsy or direct from PaperArtsy’s website, especially if you’re international.


A collection of handmade books that I have created with Chalk paint covers on Khadi paper
Handmade Books with Decorative Covers Hand Painted with Chalk Paint.

Final Thoughts

Chalk and acrylic paint both offer beautiful possibilities—but they serve different purposes. Chalk paint is perfect for soft, textured finishes with minimal prep, while acrylic paint is durable, colorful, and great for long-lasting coverage.


Key Takeaway:

  • Chalk paint is ideal for paper, books, and vintage-style finishes.

  • Acrylic paint is your go-to for high-durability and vibrant color work.

Whichever you choose, let your project—and your personal style—guide the way.


Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Are you a fellow maker who works with acrylic paints too? I’d love to hear your favorite techniques or brands you love to use. Leave a comment or connect with me on Instagram @melaniegrantdesign.

Curious what these books become? Join my mailing list to see the finished pieces and get first access to new releases.

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