Yes, you can paint over marble — but if you want it to last and look like a professional job, you’ll need the right prep and paint. Painting marble is a great way to update old surfaces without the cost of replacement, but it’s not as simple as slapping on a coat of paint.
The key is surface prep. Marble’s slick finish won’t hold paint unless you sand it thoroughly and use the right primer. From there, you can either go with chalk paint for a matte, vintage look or high-gloss oil-based paint for a sleek, polished finish. Both can work well, if applied correctly.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best methods for painting marble, what tools and materials you’ll need, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to peeling or uneven results. Let’s get your project done right the first time.
How Do You Paint Marble?
When painting marble, proper surface prep is essential to ensure the paint adheres and lasts. Marble’s smooth, non-porous surface makes it resistant to paint, so sanding and priming are necessary steps before applying any finish.
The best paint options for marble include:
- Chalk paint – Ideal for a soft, matte finish with minimal prep. Sealing with wax adds durability.
- High-gloss oil-based paint – Best for a sleek, polished look that withstands daily wear. Requires priming and longer drying times.
Regardless of the method, skipping sanding or primer will lead to peeling and chipping. Below, I’ll walk you through the correct process for each approach so your painted marble stays beautiful and durable.
How To Paint Marble Using Chalk Paint
Chalk paint is a great option if you want a soft, matte finish on marble without too much prep. It sticks well to surfaces and doesn’t require a primer in many cases, but you still need to rough up the marble for the best results. After painting, sealing it with wax helps protect the finish and adds a subtle sheen.
Here’s how to do it right:
Sanding marble creates fine dust, so open windows, use a fan, and wear a dust mask to protect your lungs.
Use painter’s tape to protect nearby surfaces and lay down a drop cloth to catch spills or dust.
If the marble is glossy, lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit works well) until it feels dull and slightly rough. If it’s already worn and matte, you can skip this step.
Wipe the surface with a damp cloth, let it dry completely, then go over it again with a dry cloth to ensure it’s clean.
Let it dry for at least 48 hours. If it feels tacky or you live in a humid area, give it more time before deciding if a second coat is needed.
Once the paint is fully dry, apply a layer of clear wax to protect the finish and give it a soft sheen. You can also use colored wax to create a unique, textured look.
How To Paint Marble Using High-Gloss Oil-Based Paint
If you want a shiny, durable finish on marble — especially for surfaces that see a lot of use — high-gloss oil-based paint is your best bet. It takes more prep and longer drying times, but the end result is a tough, polished surface that can handle daily wear.
Here’s how to do it:
Cover nearby surfaces with drop cloths or old newspapers, and use painter’s tape to mask off any parts of the marble you don’t want to paint.
Paint won’t stick to smooth, polished marble. Use fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) to scuff the surface until it feels rough and looks dull. Take your time — any glossy spots left behind will cause the paint to peel.
Wipe the surface with a damp cloth, let it dry, then wipe it again with a clean, dry cloth. Any leftover dust will ruin the finish.
Primer helps the paint bond to the marble. Use a brush or roller to apply a thin, even coat, working in long, smooth strokes. Let it dry for at least six hours — or follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once the primer is fully dry, apply a thin, even coat of high-gloss paint. Use a clean brush or roller and work in the same direction to avoid streaks.
Don’t rush it — oil-based paint needs time to set. If needed, apply a second coat using the same technique.
Even after it feels dry, the paint needs time to fully harden. Avoid placing items on it or wiping it down during this time to prevent damage.
Can You Use Acrylic Paint on Marble?
No, you shouldn’t use acrylic latex paint on marble. It won’t stick well to the slick surface, and even if it looks good at first, the paint will start to peel or chip away over time — especially in high-use areas.
If you’re set on painting marble, stick with oil-based primer and paint for the best durability. And no matter what type of paint you use, you must sand the marble first to help the primer grip the surface. Skipping this step is one of the biggest reasons paint jobs on marble fail.
Can You Spray Paint Marble?
Yes, you can spray paint marble — but only if you prep the surface correctly and use the right kind of paint. Start by sanding the marble to remove its glossy finish, then apply an oil-based primer. Once that’s fully dry, you can spray on high-gloss oil-based paint in light, even coats.
Let each coat dry for at least six hours before adding another — oil-based paint needs more time to set than standard spray paint. Rushing this step can lead to drips, smudges, or peeling.
Spray painting works well for small marble items like trays or decorative pieces. For large surfaces like countertops, you’re better off using a brush or roller for more control and better coverage.
