Decorator Guide

Get the best from our paints

Follow our decorator guide for your chosen paint type to ensure a professional finish and the best application.

Decorator Guide: Eggshell & Gloss Paint Application Advice

Our eggshell and gloss paints are both multi-surface paints. Please follow our decorator guide for best results. For professional results, use a trusted decorator when decorating with our paints.

We recommend Mylands for all primers and preparation materials.

Interior Woodwork: Mylands Plant-Based primer and undercoat
Metal: Mylands Plant-Based primer and undercoat
Interior Walls & Ceilings: Mylands Plant-Based primer and undercoat

New and Unpainted Interior Wood (Excluding Floors)

Preparation:

Make sure surfaces are clean, dry, sound, and free from dust, grease, or contaminants
Sand new or planed wood with 240-grit paper to achieve a smooth finish, and remove all dust
Fill any cracks, holes, or joints using a suitable filler
Lightly sand the filled areas to ensure proper adhesion

Treating Knots and Resinous Areas:

For knotty or resinous wood, we recommend applying two coats of:

Stain Block Primer
Patent Knotting
or White Knotting, depending on your finish requirements

Once sealed, we recommend at least two coats of primer and undercoat, allowing a minimum of 4 hours drying time between coats.

Previously Painted Interior Wood (Excluding Floors) Preparation

Ensure all surfaces are sound, clean, dry, and free from dirt, grease, and other contaminants
Remove any peeling or blistering paint to avoid flaking or peeling after repainting
Feather and blend the edges of old paint to create a smooth transition
Fill any cracks, holes, or joints with a suitable filler and lightly sand the surface to improve adhesion
Patch-prime any filled or bare knotty/resinous areas
Apply one coat of primer and undercoat in the correct colour tone for your chosen topcoat, allowing a minimum of 4 hours drying time between coats
Finish with two coats of your selected multi-surface paint, respecting recommended drying times between coats

Interior MDF Preparation

Lower quality MDF may have loosely bound fibres which can raise during painting. If this occurs, lightly sand between coats for a smooth finish
Use high-quality MDF where possible, as it generally requires less sanding due to better fibre adhesion
Lightly sand MDF edges to ensure a sound surface and reduce paint absorption
Apply two coats of primer and undercoat in the correct colour tone, allowing at least 4 hours drying time between coats
Follow with two coats of your chosen multi-surface paint, allowing adequate drying time between applications

Waxed or Highly Polished Surface Preparation

Remove existing wax or polish using a remover followed by sanding before painting

Application Tips:

Use a soft cloth or, for best results, a pad of 0000 steel wool soaked with the remover, squeezing out excess
Work in small sections, gently rubbing in the direction of the wood grain
Let the remover soften the wax and grime for a few minutes, then wipe off with a clean, lint-free cloth while still wet
Repeat until all wax and grime are removed
Allow the de-waxed surface to dry completely for at least 24 hours before refinishing
Patch-prime any filled or bare knotty/resinous areas with a stain block primer.
Apply one coat of multi-Surface Primer and undercoat (we recommend ) in the correct colour tone, allowing a minimum of 4 hours drying time
Finish with two coats of your chosen multi-surface paint, allowing proper drying time between coats

Ferrous Metal Preparation

Thoroughly clean and degrease all new and previously painted metal surfaces
Remove any loose paint and rust, sanding back to bare metal
Apply two coats of primer in the correct colour tone, allowing at least 4 hours drying time between coats
We recommend Multi-Surface Primer because it is a water-based alkyd primer/undercoat designed to replace oil-based primers
It is fast-drying, low VOC, low odour, and provides powerful anti-corrosive protection. Suitable for brush, roller, or spray application
Apply two coats of your chosen multi-surface paint, observing drying times

Cast Iron Preparation

Wire brush and sand off any visible rust
Remove dust thoroughly with a clean cloth
In most cases, applying up to four coats of Metal Primer to prevent further rusting
If rust persists, a specialist primer is recommended, as water-based primers may cause flash rusting on cast iron

Non-Ferrous Metal Preparation

Clean and degrease new or previously painted metal surfaces thoroughly
Remove any loose paint and rust back to bare metal
Apply two coats of primer and undercoat in the correct colour tone, allowing at least 4 hours drying time between coats
This primer is a water-based alkyd formula that replaces traditional oil-based primers, dries quickly, has low VOC and odour, and provides strong anti-corrosive protection. Suitable for brush, roller, or spray application
Complete with two coats of your chosen multi-surface paint, allowing appropriate drying times

Galvanised Metal Preparation

Thoroughly clean and degrease all new and previously painted metal surfaces
Remove any weak paint and rust back to bare metal
In most cases, applying two coats of primer and undercoat will provide sufficient adhesion
Always test a small area before priming the entire surface. If the primer does not adhere well, a specialist primer is recommended
Treat all surfaces with an etch primer or mordant solution, making sure to remove any excess product before painting
If the test patch shows good adhesion, apply two coats of primer and undercoat in the correct colour tone for your chosen multi-surface paint, allowing a minimum of 4 hours drying time between coats

Radiator Preparation

Wood & Metal Paint is suitable for conventional hot water radiators where surface temperature does not exceed 60°C
Do not use on steam-filled radiators, which operate at higher temperatures
Ensure the radiator is turned off and fully cooled before painting
Thoroughly clean and degrease all surfaces, removing any loose paint
Apply two coats of primer and undercoat in the correct colour tone, allowing at least 4 hours drying time between coats
Finish with two coats of your chosen multi-surface paint, respecting recommended drying times

Cast Iron Radiators

Do not use this product on steam-filled radiators due to high operating temperatures
Ensure the radiator is off and completely cooled before painting
Wire brush and sand away any visible rust, then remove all dust with a clean cloth
In most cases, applying up to four coats of primer and undercoat will prevent further rusting
If rust persists, we recommend applying a specialist primer prior to painting, as water-based primers can cause flash rusting on cast iron

Cleaning Wall Surfaces Prior to Painting

All surfaces must be clean and dry before painting
For most surfaces, use a dilute sugar soap solution following the manufacturer’s instructions
Avoid solvent-based cleaners as they may disperse residues and interfere with water-based paint application

New or Unpainted Plaster/Dry Lined Surfaces (Modern Construction) Preparation

Ensure plaster is fully dry before priming and painting. British Standard 6150:2006 recommends 7 days drying per 5mm thickness
Insufficiently dried porous plaster may cause application difficulties, uneven sheen, or patchy colour

Recommendations for New, Sound, Non-Powdery Plastered Walls:

Option 1: Mylands Wall Primer (Recommended)

A high-opacity, low-odour, micro-porous, water-thinned primer sealer with excellent adhesion to most finishes
Ideal for new plaster, friable or patch-repaired surfaces before applying water-based finishes
Apply a full, solid coat of your wall primer before adding your multi-surface paint to ensure even absorption, smooth finish, and rich colour depth
Finish with a minimum of two coats of multi-surface paint in your chosen colour
Recommended for use with strong, bright colours to reduce the number of topcoats needed
Colour card and website specify the recommended primer for each topcoat

Option 2: Wood & Metal Paint Diluted as a Mist Coat

If the plaster is dry and in good condition, apply a thin mist coat of multi-surface paint diluted up to 45% with water as the first coat
Follow with a minimum of two coats diluted up to 10% with water to complete
Always apply with a short pile roller using dry rolling and firm pressure to achieve a flat, even finish

Suggested Maximum Dilution Rates

Bare dry skim plaster, dry lined walls, bare dry plasterboard, or patch-filled plaster: up to 45% water
Dilution rates depend on surface porosity — test a small patch to determine the best dilution level

Previously Painted Walls Preparation

For best results, apply one coat of wall primer first
The Wall Primer can be tinted to match your chosen multi-surface paint colour
Follow with a minimum of two coats of your selected multi-surface paint to ensure good adhesion and rich colour depth
Allow at least 4 hours drying time between each coat

Painting Lining Wallpaper

For unpainted lining paper, apply one coat of diluted Wall Primer (diluted up to 10% with water), tinted to match your multi-surface paint topcoat
Then apply two full coats of your chosen multi-surface paint
Note: Dilution rates depend on surface porosity. Always test a small area first to determine the ideal dilution
Alternatively, if you prefer not to use a primer, you may apply a mist coat by diluting multi-surface paint with approximately 20% water
Be aware: Insufficient preparation of porous papers can cause application issues, uneven sheen, or colour variation

Using Interior Caulks & Sealants

For filling small gaps and cracks, use an acrylic-based decorator’s caulk (water-based and flexible)
Apply the minimum amount necessary; smaller beads dry faster and reduce cracking risk
Follow the caulk manufacturer’s instructions and drying times (typically 2–3 hours)
Once dry, apply one undiluted coat of Wall Primer in the correct colour tone. Allow at least 4 hours of drying time
Finish with a minimum of two coats of multi-surface paint, allowing at least 4 hours drying time between coats

Painting Over Interior Wall Fillers

Use fillers with porosity and density matching the repaired surface to avoid visible colour or tone differences
Follow the filler manufacturer’s instructions and drying times
Apply two coats of wall primer tinted to your topcoat colour, allowing at least 4 hours drying between coats
Follow with two coats of your chosen multi-surface paint to ensure adhesion and full colour depth
Note: Wood & Metal Paint may not be compatible with highly alkaline or cement-based fillers, or with sand-based fillers
If alternative fillers are unavailable, ensure fillers are well sanded and completely free of dust and contaminants before painting

Painting Over Interior Wood Fillers

Our multi-surface paint is an excellent choice for decorative furniture finishes
Follow the wood filler manufacturer’s instructions and drying times carefully
Patch prime any filled areas with primer and undercoat in the correct colour tone
Apply one full coat of primer and undercoat, allowing at least 4 hours drying time
Finish with two coats of multi-surface paint, allowing the recommended drying time between coats

Using Masking Tape

Choose a quality masking tape suited to your project’s requirements
Some tapes include proprietary paint-locking technology for a cleaner finish
Always follow the tape manufacturer’s instructions for application and removal to achieve the best results

Difficult Surfaces (e.g., Melamine, PVC, ABS, Wall Tiles, Laminates)

For best results, use a specialist adhesion primer according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying your multi-surface paint
Surfaces like melamine, PVC, ABS, wall tiles, and laminates require careful preparation: degrease with a suitable cleaner, lightly abrade for a key, and clean thoroughly
Test patch by applying two coats of primer and undercoat tinted to your topcoat colour, allowing a minimum of 4 hours drying between coats
If adhesion and finish are satisfactory, apply two coats of multi-surface paint, observing proper drying times between coats
If the test patch fails, consider specialist primers or alternative surface preparation methods

How to Apply Paint to Trim by Brush

Trim includes: skirting boards, picture rails, dado rails, doors, door frames, architraves, interior window sills, and window frames (except plastic)
Wood & Metal Paint is a waterborne alkyd, which resists sagging better than solvent-based paints. For best results, apply a thicker coat rather than a thin one
Apply two coats of primer and undercoat in the correct colour tone for your topcoat
Follow with three coats of multi-surface paint
Always stir paint thoroughly before use
Use a quality fine-tipped synthetic bristled brush
Load the brush well and apply a generous first coat. Brush vertically first, then horizontally, to ensure even coverage
Finish by “laying off” the paint in one direction with light pressure, holding the brush at about a 30° angle
Do not overwork the paint or try to brush it out as with traditional solvent-based paints, as this can cause excessive brush marks
Allow the first coat to dry fully (minimum 4 hours) before applying the second coat using the same technique

How to Apply Paint to Trim by Roller

Trim definition is the same as above
Wood & Metal Paint can be applied with a medium pile woven polyester roller for a quicker application with minimal stippling
For the best finish, however, brush application with a fine-tipped synthetic bristled brush is recommended

How to Apply Paint to Walls by Brush

Stir the multi-surface paint thoroughly before use
Ensure all surfaces are sound, clean, dry, and free from dirt or grease
Remove any weak or flaking paint by sanding before starting to avoid peeling
Apply Wall Primer where needed to improve adhesion and colour depth
Use synthetic bristled brushes, applying paint vertically first, then spreading horizontally for even coverage
For the final coat, lay off the paint in a single direction to minimize visible brush marks
Typically, two coats are sufficient, but for a flawless finish, thin the paint with up to 30% water and apply additional coats as needed

How to Apply Paint to Walls by Roller

Stir paint thoroughly before use
Use a short pile woven polyester roller
Apply paint in diagonal strokes forming an ‘M’, ‘W’, or ‘V’ shape
Fill in and smooth over the shapes you create, working in small sections
Always maintain a wet edge by working from dry to wet areas to reduce roller marks
For the final coat, lay off the paint in one direction to minimize roller patterning
Two coats are standard; for a flawless finish, thin paint with up to 30% water and apply additional coats as needed

How to Apply Paint to Walls by Spraying

Preparation:

Multi-surface paint is a waterborne alkyd, heavy with natural pigments, requiring special care
Clean, degrease, fill, sand, and prime/undercoat surfaces thoroughly
Use finishing papers between coats to achieve a smooth, flat surface before spraying the topcoat
Multiple cycles of preparation may be needed to get the desired finish

Spray Settings:

Airless spraying: Typically use a 410 nozzle tip with 180 bar air injection pressure. Adjust as necessary for your equipment
HVLP spraying: May require dilution with up to 30% water depending on your apparatus
Test spray on cardboard or a hidden area to adjust air control, material flow, fan size, and spray pattern until satisfied
Apply several thin coats, letting each fully dry before the next
Warning: Spraying creates hazardous respirable droplets. Avoid breathing spray or mist and use appropriate respiratory protection

Painting Interior Brickwork

The brick surface must be completely dry and free from dampness before painting
Powdery, flaky, or unstable interior brickwork should be patch primed with a stabilising primer
Apply a coat of Wood & Metal Paint diluted 30%, followed by two coats of your chosen topcoat colour. Allow a minimum of 4 hours drying between coats
For exterior masonry, use Masonry Paint
Do not use Stabilising Primer as a general primer on sound brick surfaces

Advice for Repairing Damage and Touching In

Our paint is very durable but may sometimes need touch-ups or repairs
For best results on walls, apply a single coat over the entire wall(s) affected using the same batch of paint originally used
For furniture, apply a single coat over the entire surface. This avoids noticeable colour or finish variations

Touch-Up Recommendations:

A) Use the same batch of paint whenever possible. Slight colour variations can occur between batches.
B) If you must use a different batch, paint the entire wall with the new batch to reduce visible differences.
C) Use the same preparation methods as initially used (e.g., same fillers and sanding) to avoid patchy finishes.
D) Use the same application tools and techniques for blending the edges of touched-up areas.
E) The fresher the original paintwork, the better the colour match you’ll achieve.
F) Darker colours are harder to touch in seamlessly compared to lighter colours.

Clean-Up

Clean brushes and rollers with warm soapy water immediately after use, removing as much paint as possible

Cleaning Painted Surfaces

multi-surface paints are washable, wipeable, and stain-resistant
Clean gently with a soft damp cloth or sponge

Cleaning Stains

A) Remove stains as soon as possible to prevent penetration.
B) Absorb stains using a clean, absorbent cloth or tissue.
C) Clean gently with warm soapy water, keeping the cleaned area minimal.
D) For stubborn stains, use decorator’s cleaning wipes or cleaning sprays, following manufacturer instructions.

Water Contact Advice

Avoid allowing standing water to pool on horizontal surfaces painted with our multi-surface paint to extend its service life

Storage Advice

Our multi-surface paint is a water-based product. Protect it from frost and extreme temperatures
Use within 6 months of purchase
No responsibility is accepted for deterioration after this period

Environmental and Disposal Advice

Do not empty into drains or watercourses
Dispose of contents/container according to local/national regulations
Contact your local Environmental Department for guidance
Metal containers can be recycled

Colour Accuracy

Always check colour accuracy before use
Use tins with identical batch numbers or mix different tins thoroughly before use to avoid colour variation
Different application tools (brush, roller, spray) may affect the appearance slightly

Formulation

Water-based paint using an alkyd binder
Contains preservatives to protect against algal and fungal growth

Toy Safety

Certified under BS EN 71-3:1995 (“Toy Paint Regulations”)
Contains ingredients safe for use on nurseries, furniture, toys, and family homes

Health & Safety Advice

Spraying creates hazardous respirable droplets—do not breathe spray or mist
Keep out of reach of children
Ensure good ventilation during application and drying
Avoid contact with eyes, skin, or clothing
If on skin: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
If in eyes: Rinse with water for several minutes and remove contact lenses if easy. Continue rinsing
If swallowed: Seek medical advice if unwell
Avoid using solvent thinners or white spirit for cleaning
When sanding surfaces prior to painting, minimize dust and use appropriate Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)