How has it taken me until 2017 to try out chalk paint?! It’s a whole new, wonderful discovery for me-albeit 10 years behind most people in the interiors world no doubt. Here is my first foray into the world of Annie Sloan-and at risk of sounding overdramatic- I’m pretty sure it’s changed my life forever!

I salvaged this desk from my local tip-it was sitting on the side in the rain & I gave the tip charity shop £5 for it. There were initials carved into the top & the handles were unremarkable but I lived with it for a year before deciding to paint it blue.

Annie Sloan chalk paint says there’s no need to sand or clean surfaces prior to painting (whaaat? So i just paint it on?) This goes against everything I’ve ever learnt about decorating. Preparation is king. I couldn’t quite believe what I was reading, but who am I to argue- if it cuts out the laborious, unsatisfying bit I’m sold!

After filling the handle holes and the worst of the gouges with wood filler, I slapped the paint on, it dried quickly & the same night I gave it a coat of wax. In front of an episode of Kirstie & Phil. I ordered a pair of copper cup handles from ebay & was so chuffed with the result!

Annie Sloan Clear Wax

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Napoleonic Blue

My desk pre-miracle

You can buy Annie Sloan chalk paint online at anniesloan.co.uk and the site also has a list of stockists so you can find one in your area. If you can’t find the right colour or shade, don’t forget you can mix them to create your own. Rustoleum also do a good range, some of which are available at B&Q.

My desk lamp is from Aldi & the pegboard from Ikea.

My finished desk in Napoleonic Blue