Overview

When your project needs serious protection, reach for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint™ Lacquer. A hard-wearing, water-based polyacrylic varnish designed specifically for use over Chalk Paint™, it delivers a robust, long-lasting finish that stands up to real life, making it the go-to choice for high-traffic surfaces like dining tables, floors, skirting boards and outdoor furniture.

Unlike wax, Lacquer is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, with built-in UV protection that keeps colours vibrant and prevents fading over time. It dries quickly, goes on perfectly clear and, crucially, won't yellow over time. A thicker formula means fewer drips and runs during application, so you get a cleaner, more professional result with less effort.

Available in two finishes: Matt Lacquer gives a flat, mellow finish that subtly deepens the colour of the Chalk Paint™ beneath, much like wax. Gloss Lacquer adds a light, refined sheen without tipping into ultra-glossy territory. Both are abrasion resistant, low in VOCs, certified Toy Safe to EU standards.

• Hard-wearing polyacrylic formula - abrasion resistant and built for high-use surfaces
• Indoor and outdoor use - the only Annie Sloan finish suitable for exterior furniture and surfaces
• Built-in UV protection - keeps Chalk Paint™ colours vibrant outdoors without fading
• Won't yellow over time - dries clear and stays clear
• Thicker formula - helps prevent drips and runs for a cleaner application
• Toy Safe certified - EU Toy Safety Directive BS EN 71-3:2013
• Two finishes - Matt (mellow, deepens colour) and Gloss (light refined sheen)
• Available in 750ml tins

Preparation

Ensure your Chalk Paint™ is completely dry before applying Lacquer. Do not apply over wet or tacky paint.

• Lacquer should be applied directly over Chalk Paint™, do not apply over wax. If you have previously waxed the surface, the wax must be fully removed before lacquering.
• Ensure your working environment is clean and dust-free. Dust settling on a wet lacquer coat can affect the finish.
• Stir the Lacquer gently before use, do not shake, as this can introduce bubbles into the formula.
• If painting outdoors, choose a dry day with mild temperatures. Avoid applying in direct sunlight, high humidity or frost.
• Matt Lacquer will slightly deepen the colour of your Chalk Paint™. If colour accuracy is important, test on a small area first.

Application

Always test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before full application to ensure compatibility and desired results.

• Apply Lacquer using a good quality synthetic brush or a foam roller for larger surfaces. Annie Sloan's Flat Brush is ideal for a smooth, even finish.
• Work in long, even strokes in one direction, applying a thin, consistent coat. Avoid overworking the Lacquer once applied, the thicker formula is designed to self-level.
• Allow the first coat to dry completely before assessing. Lacquer dries quickly, typically within an hour depending on temperature and humidity.
• For high-traffic surfaces such as dining tables, floors or outdoor furniture, apply a second coat once the first is fully dry for maximum durability.
• For floors and skirting boards, two to three coats are recommended to achieve the level of protection needed for heavy daily use.
• Gloss Lacquer will give a light, refined sheen. Matt Lacquer gives a flat, mellow finish similar to wax, choose based on the look you're after rather than the level of protection, as both are equally hard-wearing.

Aftercare & Storage

For everyday cleaning, wipe with a damp cloth. Lacquered surfaces are much easier to clean than waxed ones and will withstand regular wiping without damage.

For tougher marks, use a mild household cleaner, avoid harsh abrasives or solvents, which can break down the lacquer finish over time.

For outdoor furniture, bring inside or cover during prolonged wet weather or harsh winters to extend the life of the finish, even with UV protection in place.

If the surface becomes worn or marked over time, lightly sand back and apply a fresh coat of Lacquer to restore protection, no need to strip back to bare paint.