How to Use Cue Chalk in Pool

Cue chalk helps create friction so that when the cue stick strikes the ball, there is less chance of slippage, or miscue. Here is how to properly chalk your pool cue.

Instructions

1. Hold your pool cue upright. Your pool cue should form a 90-degree angle with the ground when you are applying chalk. You can slightly lean it to get a better view or to better access the tip. Do not hold it sideways or pointing down.

2. Grab the chalk cube in your dominant hand and your pool cue in the other.

3. Press the edge of the chalk lightly against the tip of the cue. There should be a small indention in the cue chalk. Do not press your cue into the indention. Instead, use the edge of that indention to apply chalk.

4. Scrape lightly with the chalk to cover the tip of the cue. Do not twist or grind the chalk into the tip. Rotate the cue while making a scraping or painting motion with the chalk.

5. Use the edge of the chalk to fill in any places that you may have missed. Again, do it lightly.

6. Chalk your cue before each shot. Chalking before each shot will improve your game.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are buying chalk for your own pool table, match the color of the chalk to the felt of your table so that excess chalk and scuffs will not be so visible.

• Tap the butt end of the pool stick against the ground to remove excess chalk. Don't blow on it because this can add moisture to the tip which can nullify the effect of the chalk. Proper chalking should not result in much excess chalk.

• Don't grind away with the chalk. It wastes the chalk and can damage your pool tip.