Searching for a true black paint that will endure regular usage can be a challenge. Most options do not give a rich black shade, and some even turn grey and dull over time!
To help you find one with legit pigment, our pro woodworkers will break down the best black paints for wood furniture they’ve been using for years—great for furniture makeover or new pieces.
Reviews of the Top Black Paints for Furniture
1. General Finishes Water-Based Milk Paint in Lamp Black
The durability of this water-based milk paint is commendable. The paint is self-sealing and can handle spills and mild dents.
Despite being budget-friendly, the General Finishes Water-Based Milk Paint in Lamp Black still maintains its premium quality, which you can use both indoors and outdoors, including on raw wood, not just for furniture refinishing and upcycling.
You can apply this paint using various methods, such as roller, brush, or spray, to achieve great results, with a low-luster sheen that lasts. The low odor and lack of VOCs make it safe for kids and pets, and it has self-leveling properties.
What We Like
- Does not require a topcoat
- Can be applied directly to raw wood
- Needs minimal preparation.
- Has low odor
What We Don't Like
- Requires multiple coats
- Not good for metal and plastic surfaces
2. Fusion Mineral Paint Coal Black
The Fusion Mineral Paint Coal Black is a great option if you want a darker shade. It is an all-in-one paint that’s easy to use— suitable for both professional and amateur painters.
This 100% acrylic paint is self-leveling. But it requires a wet brush and sanding between coats for a smooth finish. It’s non-toxic and lead-free, with low VOCs. No strong odor, making it a kid-friendly option.
As we use it, Fusion Mineral covers well, requiring only two coats. It has a long-lasting effect, but it takes three weeks to cure, which is typical for water-based paints.
What We Like
- Releases low levels of VOCs
- Self-leveling
- Offers good coverage.
- Does not require a sealer or primer
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- This product requires research before use
3. Country Chic Paint Chalk Style All in One Paint in Liquorice
This Country Chic Paint Chalk Style All in One Paint in Liquorice provides a rustic, sharp look. It’s an all-in-one solution with built-in primer and topcoat suitable for a variety of surfaces. We recommend this paint if you want to paint furniture black while achieving a luster finish.
This particular paint is marketed towards artistic mothers and is certified toy-safe by European toy safety standards. No harsh chemicals are present, with a mild, pleasant smell.
The only downside here is the price. But it’s worth it, given the included primer and topcoat. However, the paint may not be as durable as water-based polyurethane and may still require a final finish.
What We Like
- Safe for children's toys
- Features an in-built primer and topcoat.
- It does not contain harsh chemicals
- Can be applied to various materials.
What We Don't Like
- Not that budget-friendly
- It requires more sealing for extra durability
4. Retique It Chalk Furniture Paint by Renaissance DIY in 08 Midnight Black
The Retique It Chalk Furniture Paint by Renaissance DIY in 08 Midnight Black is perfect for DIY enthusiasts as it’s easy to use. Ideal for cabinets, and indoor and outdoor furniture, it dries to midnight black in just 30 minutes. It requires only a wax coating; no primer is necessary.
The single coat application allows for distressing if desired, and cleanup is a breeze with just water and soap. You can use this acrylic paint with a chalk finish on any surface, which provides a thick, even coat for a complete furniture transformation.
It’s eco-friendly with low VOCs and low odor, hypoallergenic and safe for kids. We like the versatility of this paint, which we recommend for art and craft projects.
What We Like
- Dries rapidly
- Does not require a primer.
- Simple to clean and use
- Hypoallergenic
What We Don't Like
- Packed in a plastic container
- Has a low level of shine
5. General Finishes Water-Based Enduro Black Poly
The General Finishes Water-Based Enduro Black Poly is a top-notch combination of faux paint and polyurethane, resulting in a durable and stunning black finish.
It’s suitable for millwork and cabinets, and no topcoat is necessary due to its urethane blend, providing protection against water damage, scratches, and chemical spills. Unlike similar products, Enduro black poly delivers on its promises.
No primer is needed, and only two coats are required. Besides, it dries quickly, but we recommend sanding with fine-grit sandpaper between coats for better results. Although packaged in a plastic jug, the quality of the finish isn’t compromised and results in a smooth, low-gloss surface.
What We Like
- Does not require a separate topcoat or primer.
- Sprayer-applicable
- User-friendly
- Dries rapidly
What We Don't Like
- It has a low-gloss finish
- It is packaged in a plastic jug
6. Krylon K02754007 Fusion All-in-One Spray Paint, Black
The Krylon K02754007 Fusion All-in-One Black Spray Paint in Black highlights the ease of use and smooth finish. We like how this spray paint provides superior adhesion, suitable for a variety of projects and materials. Besides, it dries quickly.
The matte black furniture paint and the finish do not drip or run, which you can use on various projects indoors and outdoors. It’s a reliable paint for refinishing furniture and rust protection.
However, the coverage is limited to 25 sq ft per can, and it’s a solvent-based spray. It requires well-ventilated areas and must be kept away from children and pets.
What We Like
- Does not require sanding
- No additional tools are necessary
- Combines primer and paint
- Dries quickly.
What We Don't Like
- Contains solvent
- Lower coverage compared to brush-applied paints
7. Shabby Chic Chalked Furniture Paint in Black Liquorice
The Shabby Chic Black Liquorice Chalked Furniture Paint is perfect for those who appreciate unique design and art. With a vintage look in mind, this paint is popular for creating a distressed furniture appearance.
Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, it’s water-based, providing good coverage. We like that it’s eco-friendly with low VOCs, low odor, and free from harmful substances like phthalates, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and solvents.
This versatile paint can be used on so many furniture and surfaces, including plastic, wood, metal, and stone. It only requires two coats without the need for primer. Brush strokes are a part of the design, so sanding is not necessary.
What We Like
- Does not require a primer
- Simple to apply
- Safe for children
- Does not require extensive sanding
What We Don't Like
- Limited coverage for the price
- Dries too quickly, making it difficult to blend
8. Dixie Belle Paint Company Chalk Finish Furniture Paints in Caviar
We simply love the Dixie Belle Paint Company Chalk Finish Furniture Paint in Caviar for its ease of use. This chalk-based paint is a favorite among newbies and DIYers for its straightforward application.
No primer or sanding between coats is needed, with one coat enough, given that the paint surface is dark and properly cleaned. The only requirement is wax must be applied, which may take up to three coats.
It’s non-toxic, dries rapidly, releases no VOCs, and offers good coverage. An 8 oz jar covers 38 sq ft, which is 20% more than average. Also, we like its matte finish that is easy to distress.
What We Like
- Only requires one coat
- Easy to use.
- Does not require sanding or priming
- Contains no VOCs
What We Don't Like
- Requires a few coats of wax
- Have a strong odor, which can be unpleasant for some