Transform Your Electric Fireplace with Paint
After reviewing numerous pieces on chalk paint's advantages, I've experimented with both DIY and FolkArt’s Chalk on smaller endeavors, but I'm eager for a larger undertaking.
Alongside a wonderful find curbside, I also located a line of chalk-style paint originating in Canada.
See Also: Painting a Bookcase with Cottage Paint; Painted Wooden Step Stool
Cottage Paint, which is clay-based, offers a more budget-friendly alternative compared to many other chalk paint brands. I sourced a supplier near my Vancouver Island residence, making this project exciting to begin.
Three Simple Steps for a Stunning Painted Electric Fireplace
Materials Required to Paint an Electric Fireplace:
- Cottage Paint in Cloudy Sky hue
- 150 grit sandpaper block
- Painter’s Tape
- Rag or tack cloth
- Paint Brush (this is my most favored one)
- Cottage Paint Acrylic Wax in Matte finish
- Wax application brush (I utilize Miss Mustard Seed’s)
- Sunlight soap bar for brush cleaning
1. Prepare the fireplace for painting by lightly abrading the surface with 150 grit sandpaper.
Despite some paints claiming sanding is unnecessary, my experience across many painting jobs suggests caution is wise. A quick sand on furniture, especially one with a glossy finish, guarantees better paint adhesion. Following sanding, thoroughly wipe the item with a clean rag. (A tack cloth is superior for this step.)
After cleaning the surface, I used painter’s tape around the black fireplace box to prevent paint from landing where it shouldn't.
2. Apply enough coats to fully cover the piece, ensuring adequate drying time between each layer.
I observed that this Cottage Paint adhered well to the wood and provided good coverage. It also dried swiftly between coats. However, it needed more than the suggested “2 coats” on the can. For future dark wood pieces, I would suggest priming with a stain blocking primer first.
3. Finish with Cottage Paint Acrylic Wax Sealant
It is important to know that not all chalk paint types are identical! Cottage Paint’s “wax” finish is actually a water-based acrylic product, differing significantly from true wax-based paints that demand buffing.
A detailed guide on applying Cottage Paint’s acrylic wax finish is available HERE, including video tutorials. I highly recommend reviewing it if this brand is new to you.
The transformation significantly enhanced the electric fireplace's overall look; this is how it appeared initially:
Presenting the item now:
It brings me such joy to have a small mantelpiece for decoration!
Should you not locate an electric fireplace available curbside for painting, consider these gorgeous white fireplace selections to lend a delightful, cozy farmhouse feel to any space:
