How to Apply Milk Paint
Milk paint creates a vintage look with a grainy and uneven finish. Milk paint was commonly made at home before commercial paints were widely available. It is nontoxic and can be used on antiques, modern pieces or wooden toys for children. You can apply milk paint to raw wood, clean painted wood surfaces and even laminates, if properly primed. Learn how to apply milk paint to take advantage of this timeless and eco-friendly option. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Sandpaper
- Denatured alcohol
- Primer
- Milk paint
- Adhesion booster
- Container for mixing
- Paint stirrer
- Natural-bristle brush, foam brush or sprayer
- Steel wool
- Wax or oil finish
Instructions
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Prepare the surface for painting. Sand raw wood, then wipe down well with denatured alcohol. If you are planning to use milk paint over a previously painted surface, wipe that with denatured alcohol, as well. Apply a good-quality primer to laminate before applying milk paint.
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Combine equal parts of milk-paint powder and warm water. Stir well. Add an adhesion booster if you are painting a previously painted surface or primed laminate. Use one part adhesion booster to three parts milk paint.
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3
Apply milk paint with a brush, roller or foam brush. Apply the paint in smooth, even coats; however, do not worry if brushstrokes show. Create the vintage look of traditional milk paint by allowing the surface to remain somewhat rustic. Use a sprayer if you prefer a more even finish.
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Create a distressed look by using steel wool on your milk-paint surface. Consider painting a darker undercoat topped by a lighter color. Use steel wool to rub away the lighter paint at areas where wear and damage would be typical.
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Finish your milk-painted furniture by applying paste wax or an oil-based sealer or finish. This will protect the flat paint finish from stains and damage.
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Tips & Warnings
Try making your own milk paint by combining one quart of skim milk, one ounce of hydrated lime, and one pound to 1½ pounds of chalk.
Aim a hair dryer or heat gun, set on low, at your milk-painted surface to create a naturally crackled finish.
