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How to Make Your Own Salt Paint to Create a Chippy Beach Cottage Finish

Have you ever tried salt paint? It’s a super easy way to get that thick, crackled look of things aged by the wear of salt water and time to look like they came straight out of an old beach cottage. Besides being absolutely gorgeous, it’s easy to do with any type of paint by adding just a couple of things you might already have (or can pick up at the craft store for super cheap!) Since I love a good, unique paint finish (like my Shabby Farmhouse Style), I thought I’d share this easy technique you can do, too!

How to Make Your Own Salt Paint - such a great technique for that chippy, beach vibe on almost anything. Super easy how-to with salt paint recipe.

How to Make Your Own Salt Paint Recipe

I’ve been surprisingly into creating videos lately, and this one is no exception – so there’s a complete video to show you how I did it step by step. But I did want to give you a few quick tips.

  1. Mix your salt paint in a non-reactive dish (I use old glass bowls)
  2. Don’t mix more than you need. While you can put it in an air-tight container to keep for a few days, it won’t be as good as freshly mixed paint. 
  3. Use cheap chip brushes to apply the salt paint. All those brush strokes along with the rough texture it creates only enhances the overall finish. You WANT to be messy – gloopy – and very thick. As it dries, this is what makes the texture amazing after sanding.

How to Make Your Own Salt Paint - such a great technique for that chippy, beach vibe on almost anything. Super easy how-to with salt paint recipe.

Salt Paint Recipe

*this post contains affiliate links to my Amazon shop – which means if you make a purchase then I may earn a commission*

  • 3 tablespoons plaster of Paris
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 2 tablespoons paint (I used acrylic)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (you need kosher for the texture – plain table salt will not give you the same result.)

How to Make Your Own Salt Paint - such a great technique for that chippy, beach vibe on almost anything. Super easy how-to with salt paint recipe.

Now that I’ve told you how to make it – here’s a step by step video to show you exactly how I made it, paint it and also finish it. 

 

 

Want to see more of that yummy beach cottage paint finish?!?

How to Make Your Own Salt Paint - such a great technique for that chippy, beach vibe on almost anything. Super easy how-to with salt paint recipe.

How to Make Your Own Salt Paint - such a great technique for that chippy, beach vibe on almost anything. Super easy how-to with salt paint recipe.

Soon I’ll share how to make this sign – but that’s for another day ๐Ÿ™‚

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Filed Under: DIY, farmhouse style, Featured DIY, furniture painting

About Gina Luker

Gina Luker is a writer, photographer and lover of all things quirky. She's usually found with a drill in one hand and a cocktail in the other while blogging along the way. She's addicted to coffee, polka dots, rock stars, Instagram, and everything aqua.

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Comments

  1. Michelle says

    June 27, 2018 at 12:11 pm

    This turned out BEAUTIFUL!!! Thank you so much! Iโ€™m not sure if you answered this already, but how long should I let it dry before I use it?

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      June 28, 2018 at 8:17 pm

      Thanks so much Michelle! Just let it dry until it is completely dry…just give it a touch and you’ll know ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
      • Shona says

        September 26, 2018 at 8:02 am

        Hi can I use this on my wooden floor? Will it be non slip and do I have to finish with a wax too make it water tight? X

        Reply
        • Gina Luker says

          September 27, 2018 at 3:30 pm

          I am not sure that would work Shona, I have only used this technique for DIY projects and don’t know how well…if at all it would hold up to foot traffic.

          Reply
          • Gigi says

            October 1, 2018 at 8:08 pm

            I have mixed SAND with acrylic paint and painted a front porch and steps–it held up very well to weather and foot traffic!

          • Gina Luker says

            October 2, 2018 at 9:21 am

            Wow, thanks so much for sharing Gigi, I bet it’s beautiful!!

        • Nancy says

          October 19, 2018 at 9:47 pm

          Iโ€™ve also used sand mixed with paint.
          We painted this mix on Pool steps to prevent anyone from slipping on the painted steps.
          The sand made a huge difference!
          That was in 2008, and itโ€™s still working!

          Reply
          • Gina Luker says

            October 22, 2018 at 10:28 am

            That is a great idea Nancy, thanks so much for sharing ๐Ÿ™‚

          • Mary says

            January 7, 2019 at 12:25 pm

            Did you mix just paint and sand or all the other ingredients as well?

          • Melanie L Partridge says

            January 19, 2019 at 10:10 pm

            I thought of that but since I WANTED it for a beach on souvenir paintings, and needed it to be a little more durable, I mixed my sand with plain old Elmer’s glue, then put paint in to get the right color. Let me tell you, that stuff will NEVER come off!

          • Gina Luker says

            January 21, 2019 at 12:35 pm

            Wow, thanks for sharing Melanie!

          • Deb says

            September 8, 2019 at 9:47 am

            Did you use the plaster of Paris or just the sand and paint?

          • Gina Luker says

            September 9, 2019 at 10:38 am

            Just sand and paint Deb ๐Ÿ™‚

  2. Sherry says

    June 30, 2018 at 5:16 pm

    Did you really mean: 2 tablespoons of paint, in you list of ingredients?

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 2, 2018 at 12:23 pm

      Yes I did ๐Ÿ™‚ Give it a try, I bet you’ll love it!

      Reply
      • Cynthia Edmondson Ballard says

        September 1, 2018 at 10:54 am

        I’M SO EXCITED TO TRY THIS! I love Aqua too! So does my sister. I’ve shared this with her & saved you to my board. Reading 3 to see where I can sign up with my email to your blog here hopefully I’ll find it I’m not very goid at blogging! but that’s okay I’m learning and it’s fun and I absolutely love this idea thank you so very very much look forward to reading all of your ideas.
        Thank you, Cynthia.

        Reply
        • Gina Luker says

          September 3, 2018 at 10:59 am

          Thanks so much Cynthia! Good luck ๐Ÿ™‚

          Reply
      • Claudia Tull says

        October 13, 2018 at 10:00 am

        two tablespoons of paint won’t go very far. Can you mix larger quantities?

        Reply
        • Gina Luker says

          October 15, 2018 at 12:34 pm

          Sure Claudia, I just didn’t need much for this project ๐Ÿ™‚

          Reply
    • Kelly says

      August 12, 2018 at 6:34 am

      Is there another ingredient you can use other than Plaster of Paris, or can you make it with products you may have at home?

      Reply
      • Gina Luker says

        August 14, 2018 at 10:06 am

        I don’t know Kelly, this is the only way I’ve tried it. Let me know if you find another way!!

        Reply
  3. Kasia says

    July 2, 2018 at 7:43 am

    This is genius! And I love this color ๐Ÿ™‚ Gotta question though. Does it have to be acrylic paint or would work with the chalk paint(or any other paint) as well? Thanks for sharing Gina!

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 2, 2018 at 5:01 pm

      Hey Kasia,
      Thanks!! Any paint works – but you may have to tweak the amount of paint to get the right consistency ๐Ÿ™‚ Have fun!

      Reply
      • Kasia says

        July 5, 2018 at 12:41 pm

        Thanks for the tip Gina!

        Reply
  4. Sherry says

    July 3, 2018 at 11:47 am

    Wow that turned out really beautiful…love the look of it! thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 4, 2018 at 10:15 am

      Thanks so much Sherry ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  5. Leah says

    July 20, 2018 at 9:05 am

    I’m going to give this a try! I’ve bought the salt wash brand mix and got absolutely no result

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 20, 2018 at 11:33 am

      Go for it Leah, I hope you like it and have fun!!

      Reply
  6. Vanessa says

    July 23, 2018 at 2:29 pm

    Thanks for sharing! Does it only need one coat? How long does it take to dry?

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 24, 2018 at 3:48 pm

      My pleasure Vanessa ๐Ÿ™‚ Usually only one coat, you’ll know if you are happy with the results or if you prefer more. It takes about the same amount of time to dry as regular paint.

      Reply
  7. Deb says

    July 24, 2018 at 3:23 pm

    It matches your hair

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 24, 2018 at 3:47 pm

      LOL, yes it does Deb….imagine that ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
      • Md Alif hossen says

        July 31, 2018 at 10:03 pm

        Nice, as like you……………

        Reply
        • Gina Luker says

          August 1, 2018 at 1:02 pm

          Thanks so much ๐Ÿ™‚

          Reply
  8. Tanya says

    July 24, 2018 at 7:24 pm

    I know you said to use kosher salt but can i use sea salt or Himalayan salt?

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 25, 2018 at 8:08 am

      You will get a different effect Tanya, Kosher salt has larger crystals than sea salt or Himalayan salt. I would test it in a small batch first to see if it gives you the effect you like ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  9. Loren says

    July 27, 2018 at 5:08 am

    I’m so interested in this salt paint. Is it going to use on cement and wood? And how about a larger area like a bathroom wall? Thank you. Loren

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 27, 2018 at 9:28 am

      Hmmm, I am not sure, I’ve never used it on anything other than signs but I guess you could give it a try, if you do please let me know how it looks!!

      Reply
  10. Denise says

    July 27, 2018 at 6:29 am

    Will this be Ok for an outside application or will it need to have a topcoat of varathane?
    How do you get the lettering on the piece?

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 27, 2018 at 9:27 am

      You can use a sealant for outside use and the lettering is one of my Chalk Couture transfers, you can see all of the amazing options like this one ๐Ÿ™‚ Here is a link, https://www.chalkcouture.com/theshabbycreekcottage/

      Reply
  11. C says

    July 30, 2018 at 2:07 pm

    Absolutely GORGEOUS! I think I have my first Christmas present idea (YAY!!!!)

    You may have answered this already, what is the paint color name? It’s so beachy.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 30, 2018 at 4:08 pm

      Thanks so much! I am so happy to have inspired your Christmas present idea ๐Ÿ™‚ I just used Aqua craft paint from the craft store, sorry don’t have an exact name. Good luck!!

      Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 30, 2018 at 4:08 pm

      Thanks so much! I am so happy to have inspired your Christmas present idea ๐Ÿ™‚ I just used Aqua craft paint from the craft store, sorry don’t have an exact name. Good luck!!

      Reply
  12. Carla says

    August 3, 2018 at 8:38 pm

    Did u use vinyl for the letters on the board or something else….if not what did u use? Thx love it.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      August 6, 2018 at 2:35 pm

      Hi Carla, I used one of my Chalk Couture transfers, here is a link to my store, https://www.chalkcouture.com/theshabbycreekcottage/
      Please let me know if you have any questions ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  13. latee says

    August 21, 2018 at 6:53 pm

    Nice! New job for me

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      August 22, 2018 at 9:29 am

      Thanks so much, I hope you enjoy it!! Good luck ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  14. Karloz Santana says

    August 24, 2018 at 9:36 am

    So if I want to make a bigger amount of paint I would just double the amount? Thanx for sharing the video….

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      August 24, 2018 at 10:42 am

      Thanks Karloz, yes you can, good luck if you give it a try ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  15. Ashley says

    September 6, 2018 at 2:09 am

    Can I use sand

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      September 6, 2018 at 7:15 am

      Hmmmm, I’ve never tried it, but I bet it would have the same effect. Please let me know if you try it and how it turned out ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
      • Sherri Merritt says

        September 13, 2018 at 7:20 am

        I was thinking the same thing….using course sand. Reason being, is that salt, over time is very corrosive and will deteriorate. Thanks for the info and video. I’ve never heard of salt paint before,lol!

        Reply
        • Gina Luker says

          September 13, 2018 at 8:29 am

          Thanks Sherri, give it a try, it is beautiful!

          Reply
  16. regina cantanhรชde says

    September 6, 2018 at 1:16 pm

    I liked this ink too much. I did not know, the result was very good.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      September 7, 2018 at 7:17 am

      Thanks so much Regina!

      Reply
  17. susan says

    October 7, 2018 at 8:22 pm

    Gina, this is really a cool idea and so authentic looking. I just read through all the comments and don’t see my question. I want to paint a canvas painting of the ocean and sand beach. If I replace the salt with sand so the salt doesn’t break down the canvas over time, could I use this concoction?

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      October 8, 2018 at 2:25 pm

      Hi Susan, first, that sounds like such a beautiful project! I can’t say for sure as I haven’t tried it but can’t see why not. I would give it a try on a practice canvas first to see if you like the effect before using it on your actual project. I sure would love to see it when it’s done! Good luck ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  18. Timothy Whitfield says

    October 10, 2018 at 6:47 pm

    Hi! Can you use this mixture on top of wood painted with a glossy finish? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      October 11, 2018 at 8:29 am

      I’m thinking you could Timothy, I haven’t tried it so can’t say for sure. If you give it a go, please let me know ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  19. sajid says

    October 23, 2018 at 2:09 am

    awsome) may i konow the uses of this paint. Can u suggest me for exterioir walls of house ,less cost but strong for summer temp 45c.thanks

    Reply
  20. Lulu says

    November 1, 2018 at 9:27 am

    Thats just amazing. Thank you for the great DIY idea. I’m going to try this with something small first.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      November 1, 2018 at 2:58 pm

      Thanks Lulu, good luck!

      Reply
  21. Melinda says

    January 6, 2019 at 7:44 am

    How do you do lettering on such a rough texture and get it crisp? Love the texture.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      January 7, 2019 at 11:03 am

      It is definitely harder on a rough texture so you won’t get perfect clean lines, but I like it like that it looks more rustic and homey ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  22. Daisy Dianne Bromlow says

    January 8, 2019 at 6:49 am

    Love that turquoise color – really beachy ! Looking forward to seeing the sign.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      January 8, 2019 at 9:36 am

      Thanks Daisy, it is my signature color ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  23. Barbara says

    February 18, 2019 at 4:56 pm

    What did you wipe the painting off with .

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      February 19, 2019 at 11:00 am

      Just a wet paper towel…water ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  24. Ase says

    March 17, 2019 at 4:48 am

    Loved your demo. Will have to try thisโค

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      March 18, 2019 at 10:29 am

      Thanks so much and good luck!

      Reply
  25. Christine says

    April 21, 2019 at 8:21 am

    Wowwww!! I love it. And the color too. Can you tell me what is the name of the color you used in this video please? I want to give it a try ans this is the color I m looking for.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      April 22, 2019 at 12:06 pm

      Thanks Christine! I used what I had left in an old bottle of acrylic paint I got at Hobby Lobby and no longer have it as I used it all. You can go to any craft store and find inexpensive acrylic paint and find one similar to this color, it was aqua. Good luck ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  26. Denise says

    May 28, 2019 at 4:19 pm

    That looks awesome !

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      May 30, 2019 at 9:14 am

      Thanks Denise!!

      Reply
  27. Dennie says

    August 1, 2019 at 1:50 pm

    Hi Gina,
    I read everything and watched your video. I would love to use this on a child’s bathroom wall….three children, all under 6 years of age share the same bathroom. Do you think it will hold up? Or, would I need to put some sort of sealer to my finished wall. I love the exact way yours looks and I think it will look really well for my Sponge Bob loving kids.

    Dennie

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      August 5, 2019 at 10:22 am

      That sounds like a fun bathroom idea Dennie, I am not sure how it would hold up with all of the moisture in a bathroom but a sealer would probably help!

      Reply
  28. heather williams says

    May 17, 2020 at 8:53 pm

    Can I use grout instead of the plaster of paris

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      May 19, 2020 at 6:57 pm

      I do not know Heather, I haven’t tried it so couldn’t say. Let us know if you give it a try ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  29. Vernon says

    May 21, 2020 at 8:03 am

    Is this mixture ok for decorating outdoor projects? Thank you

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      May 22, 2020 at 6:10 pm

      Yes it is Vernon, just spray with a sealant or clear spray paint to protect it ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  30. Adam Mabe says

    July 1, 2020 at 2:49 pm

    Gina – Fabulous! I came across this page when meandering through this rabbit hole I fell into while on a hunt for some kind of powder that becomes paint when I add water that is cheaper than regular paint… (any suggestions?) I just read every single comment on this page and thought I’d tell you I became an instant fan and about about to peruse the rest of your site. We share the same signature color, and these comments have me wondering if yours was also inspired by Valium? haha Keep up the great work, Wonderwoman! My MadHatter’s hats’ off to you! XO, Adam

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 6, 2020 at 12:15 pm

      LOL, thanks Adam ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
  31. Emily says

    July 18, 2020 at 11:34 am

    The mixture needs to be adjusted a little bit if you use regular wall paint. My mixture was much thinner than yours was with acrylic paint. I just did this today so Iโ€™ll update once it dries. I did this on 2 end tables.

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      July 20, 2020 at 6:43 pm

      Thanks for letting us know Emily, I bet it was beautiful!

      Reply
  32. Emily says

    July 20, 2020 at 10:48 pm

    Well, it came out super thick and not very uniform. I didnโ€™t want to make the finish too thin but I ended up making it too thick. Too much to sand over and save it. The end tables are ruined ๐Ÿ™ I would recommend anyone who is trying this to use a piece of test wood first. The part of the end tables I liked the most were the edges where I just brushed on the salt paint and the areas in the top that I didnโ€™t put much on.
    I am going to take the tops off of the end tables and try again with fresh wood (after Iโ€™m happy with the sample) and Iโ€™m going to use acrylic paint.

    Reply
  33. Joanne Wick says

    August 10, 2020 at 1:20 pm

    I love the way this looks when it’s finished. I can’t wait to try it out! What grit sandpaper do you recommend using to get the best results?

    Reply
    • Gina Luker says

      August 13, 2020 at 10:44 am

      Thanks! I just use whatever I have on hans, it really doesn’t matter ๐Ÿ™‚ Have fun!

      Reply

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