If you're a fan of chalk paint and have been using Valspar's line, you might have heard the disappointing news: Valspar has discontinued their chalk paint. This article will delve into the reasons behind this decision, explore alternative chalk paint options, and provide tips on how to make the most of your remaining Valspar chalk paint. Let's dive right in.
Why Valspar Discontinued Their Chalk Paint
In late 2021, Valspar announced the discontinuation of their chalk paint line. The primary reason cited was a shift in focus towards their core paint products and a desire to streamline their offerings. While this news was disheartening for many chalk paint enthusiasts, it's essential to understand that this decision was part of a broader business strategy.
Valspar's chalk paint, introduced in 2016, was a popular choice among DIYers and professional painters alike. Its popularity can be attributed to its ease of use, wide range of colors, and the beautiful, distressed finish it provided. Despite its success, Valspar decided to discontinue the line to focus on their more profitable and core product lines.
Alternative Chalk Paint Options
Now that Valspar chalk paint is no longer available, you might be wondering which chalk paint brands are worth trying. Here are a few alternatives that have gained popularity among chalk paint enthusiasts:
- Annie Sloan Chalk Paint: A pioneer in the chalk paint industry, Annie Sloan offers a wide range of colors and excellent quality. It's more expensive than some other brands but is often considered the gold standard in chalk paint.
- FolkArt Chalk Paint: Created by Plaid Crafts, FolkArt chalk paint is an affordable alternative that offers a good range of colors and easy application.
- DecoArt Chalky Finish Paint: DecoArt's chalky finish paint is another affordable option that provides great coverage and a beautiful, matte finish.
- Rust-Oleum Chalked Paint: Rust-Oleum's chalked paint is a popular choice for its durability, wide color selection, and affordability.
Comparing Valspar vs. Other Chalk Paint Brands
Here's a quick comparison of Valspar chalk paint with some of the alternative brands mentioned above:
| Brand | Price per 16 oz | Color Selection | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valspar | $10 - $12 | 30+ colors | Good |
| Annie Sloan | $38 - $42 | 40+ colors | Excellent |
| FolkArt | $6 - $8 | 30+ colors | Good |
| DecoArt | $6 - $8 | 30+ colors | Good |
| Rust-Oleum | $8 - $10 | 20+ colors | Excellent |
Making the Most of Your Remaining Valspar Chalk Paint
If you still have some Valspar chalk paint left, here are some tips to help you make the most of it:
- Store it properly: Keep your Valspar chalk paint in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help maintain its consistency and prevent it from drying out.
- Use it up: Consider using your remaining Valspar chalk paint for smaller projects or touch-ups. This will help you finish off your paint without wasting any.
- Mix with other chalk paints: If you've started a project with Valspar chalk paint and run out, you can mix it with another brand of chalk paint to create a custom color. However, keep in mind that the consistency and finish may vary slightly.
- Donate or sell: If you have a significant amount of Valspar chalk paint left and don't see yourself using it all, consider donating it to a local school, theater group, or charity. Alternatively, you could sell it online or to a local craft store.
In conclusion, while the discontinuation of Valspar chalk paint may have been disappointing, there are plenty of alternative chalk paint brands available that offer excellent quality and performance. By exploring these options and making the most of your remaining Valspar chalk paint, you can continue to create beautiful, distressed finishes on your DIY projects.
