Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can! We offer a hand-painted colour chart to help you choose the perfect shade for your project. Our colour charts are available for purchase on our website and give you a true representation of how each colour looks once applied and dried.
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Our paints are proudly made in the UK, featuring a VOC-free formulation for a healthier home environment. These water-based acrylic paints are crafted with high pigment content, ensuring superior adhesion qualities. This means our paint offers exceptional coverage and unparalleled colour depth, providing a stunning finish every time.

The fully cured finish of our paint is ultra-durable, drying to a beautiful low sheen, almost matte finish. It's not just about looks—our paint is UV resistant, keeping your colours vibrant for years to come, and highly scratch-resistant, ensuring your furniture withstands the test of time.

We've fine-tuned the viscosity of our paints specifically for furniture painting, making them incredibly easy to apply. Plus, our commitment to ethical products means no animal products are used in any of our pigments or bases, resulting in a vegan-friendly product that aligns with our values and yours.

Choose our furniture paints for a high-quality, durable, and eco-friendly solution to all your furniture painting projects.

The amount of paint you need depends on the size and condition of your project. As a general guide, one 750ml can covers approximately 8-10 square meters, which is enough for two coats on a large piece like a dresser or two average sized chest of drawers.
A 125ml can covers approximately 8-10 square meters, which would double coat a small side table.

Before you begin painting, we believe proper preparation is key to achieving a stunning finish, no matter how high quality the paint is. Start by cleaning the furniture to remove any dirt, grease, or old wax. Sand the surface lightly using a medium grit (180grit) to create a smooth base key, and if necessary, fill in any holes or cracks with wood filler. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth and allow the piece to dry completely.

To Prime or Not to Prime?

Priming usually isn't necessary with our paints, but it can make a big difference depending on the condition of your furniture. If your furniture has ink stains or deep penetrating oil stains, a stain blocking primer will be needed. If you are painting untreated raw pine, it is worth using a primer or knotting solution on the knots. Over time, paint can draw the sap out of the knots, resulting in slight discolouration.
Red woods, such as mahogany can be prone to bleeding tannins, meaning, once painted, brown/red stains can occasionally occur. It is advised to do a test patch or use primer, especially when painting with lighter colours.

Priming is not always necessary with Small & Co paints due to their excellent adhesion properties. However, if you are painting over a particularly glossy surface or a surface with stains, using a primer can help ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.

Apply your paint in thin, even coats using a high-quality brush or roller. Start with the edges and detailed areas, then move on to the larger surfaces. Work in the direction of the wood grain for the best results. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. For most projects, 2 coats will provide optimal coverage and depth of colour.

Yes, Small & Co paints can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray gun. This versatility makes our paint perfect for a wide range of projects.
Please note, some spray guns may require the paint to be very slightly thinned using water, please follow the manufacturer's instructions for thinning and application.

Yes, you can paint over previously painted items with Small & Co paints. We recommend lightly sanding the surface to remove any sheen and ensure good adhesion. Clean the surface thoroughly before applying our paint for the best results.

For most projects, 2 coats of Small & Co paint will provide a rich and even finish. Some darker colors or high-contrast changes might require a third coat to achieve full coverage. Always allow the paint to dry completely between coats for the best results.

Drying times can vary based on the thickness of the application, and environmental conditions. Generally, allow each coat to dry for at least 1-2 hours before applying the next. For a more cured finish, wait 24-48 hours before handling the furniture or applying any topcoat or sealant.

Our paint fully cures after 14 days. At this stage the paint is at its most durable.

Be patient – rushing this process can compromise the durability and appearance of your finish.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a beautiful and durable finish that transforms your furniture into a true masterpiece. Happy painting!

Our paints are formulated to be durable and beautiful without the need for a topcoat. However, if you want extra protection for high-traffic pieces or a specific finish like gloss, you can apply a clear topcoat for added durability and shine.

To keep your painted furniture looking its best, clean it with a damp cloth and mild detergent as needed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the finish. For added protection, you can apply a soft wax or clear topcoat if desired.

Yes, our paints can be used for external projects! However, for the best results and to extend the life of the finish, we recommend applying an additional layer of protection. Use a suitable exterior-grade topcoat to guard against weather elements and ensure the finish lasts longer. Proper preparation and sealing will help your project withstand outdoor conditions beautifully.

Solving Peeling or Chipping Issues

If you notice your paint peeling or chipping, it could be due to improper surface preparation or incompatible materials. Ensure the furniture was thoroughly cleaned and sanded before painting. If you painted over an existing glossy finish, lightly sanding and using a primer can improve adhesion. For repairs, gently sand the affected area, clean it, and apply a touch-up coat of paint. Seal with a topcoat if necessary.

Fixing Brush Strokes and Uneven Finishes

Brush strokes and uneven finishes can result from using the wrong brush, applying paint too thickly, or not allowing enough drying time between coats. To achieve a smoother finish, use a high-quality brush or roller. Apply thin, even coats and always paint in the direction of the wood grain. Sand lightly between coats if needed and ensure each layer is fully dry before applying the next.

When Paint Won’t Stick: Troubleshooting Tips

If your paint isn't sticking, it might be due to an oily or waxy residue on the furniture. Clean the furniture thoroughly with a degreaser and sand lightly to create a better surface for the paint to grip. If you're painting over a previously waxed or varnished surface, ensure all residues are removed, and consider using a bonding primer to improve adhesion.

By addressing these common issues, you'll be able to troubleshoot effectively and achieve a flawless, long-lasting finish on your painted furniture projects.

Indoor Safety: Low VOC and Safe Usage

Our water-based acrylic paints are designed with your safety in mind. They are free from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) at formulation, making them safe for indoor use and ensuring better air quality in your home. However, it's always a good practice to paint in a well-ventilated area. Open windows and doors to ensure adequate airflow. If you have sensitive skin, consider wearing gloves, and avoid prolonged skin contact with the paint.

Storing Your Paint for Future Projects

To ensure your paint remains in top condition for future use, proper storage is key. Seal the paint can tightly after each use to prevent air from entering and drying out the paint. Store the can in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Our furniture paint has an impressive shelf life of up to 5 years when stored correctly. Before reusing, stir the paint thoroughly to ensure an even consistency.

Disposing of Leftover Paint Responsibly

Disposing of paint in an environmentally responsible manner is important. If you have leftover paint, consider donating it to a local community center, school, or theater group. For disposal, never pour paint down the drain. Instead, check with your local waste management facility for guidelines on disposing of or recycling paint. Some areas offer special collection programs for household hazardous waste.

By following these guidelines, you can safely use, store, and dispose of your Small & Co paint, ensuring a safe and environmentally friendly approach to your painting projects.