What is Milk Paint?
In a nut shell it is a powdered, all natural paint that has been around for thousands of years. It has been found in the pyramids in Egypt and has been used on ancient cave paintings. It has been used in America for years on furniture, walls, barns, etc. It is a versatile paint that can be used to achieve a variety of looks from chippy and distressed to smooth and sleek.
Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint contains basic ingredients including milk protein (casein), limestone, clay and natural pigments. Milk paint provides a completely breathable coating and is also environmentally friendly, non-toxic and contains no VOC’s.
When absorbed into the surface, Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint will never chip or peel. With the Milk Paint Bonding Agent you can use Milk Paint on even more surfaces such as previously painted, varnished or waxed wood. Without the bonding agent, Milk Paint will resist some pre-finished or pre-painted surfaces to achieve an authentic “chippy” look.
If you haven’t used milk paint before, we strongly recommend watching the video tutorials on mixing, applying, distressing, and getting the look you want from our milk paint.
How do I use Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint?
Mix 1 parts warm water to 1 part milk paint powder (or 1 ¼ to 1 ratio with lighter colours). Paint may be mixed in a blender (used strictly for paint) or in a container with a stir stick. If using a blender, pour water in first and then add the powder. For hand mixing, measure the powder first and then add water. Mix for 3-5 minutes until water is absorbed into the powder and the mixture is relatively smooth. Water to powder ratio may be adjusted to achieve desired consistency. Only mix the amount needed for the project. Excess can be stored in an airtight container in a refrigerator for 5-7 days. Stir before use. If the full pack (makes 1 litre of paint) is needed, mix 590 ml of water with entire bag of milk paint powder.
Slight shade and colour variations may occur between batches.This is perfectly normal. Purchase enough paint to test and finish your entire project. Be sure to save some for any future touching up.
With a quality brush, apply 1-2 coats of milk paint, stirring occasionally. Allow 30-60 minutes between coats. Finish with Miss Mustard Seeds Wax or Hemp Oil Wood Finish.
How to make the milk paint mixture smooth?
Mixing the milk paint powder with water is very easy if you follow the instructions. You can mix by stirring 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is relatively smooth. Stir longer if you’re mixing dark colours like Tricycle or Typewriter. If you want the mixture to be smoother, you can use a small whisk or mix in a lidded jar and shake for two minutes.
Can I use Milk Paint on new wood?
Yes, its one of the best paints for new / raw wood. It acts like a stain, but looks like a paint. The colour will penetrate the wood for a lasting finish that won’t chip or flake. This makes it an ideal paint for new or raw wood cabinets or floors.
Do I have to prime before using Milk Paint on pre-finished wood?
No. If you want a smooth and sleek finish on pre-finished wood, you can simply apply the bonding agent to the first coat of paint. That will make the first coat act almost like a coloured primer. You do not need to add the bonding agent to the second coat.
If the “chippy” look is desired, do not use the bonding agent and do not sand or prep the piece. Seal the ‘chippy look’ with a wax or varnish.
Can I paint dark wood with a light colour?
Yes, you can. But when painting a surface that is in high contrast with the paint colour (from black to white, or red to white), multiple coats will be required for an opaque finish. Paint the dark piece with a mid-tone first like Shutter Gray or Lucketts Green. Then paint it white.
What is the Furniture Wax for?
The Furniture Wax is used as a protective topcoat. It’s very similar to other waxes on the market, except it’s a little creamier and very low odour.It is actually museum quality wax. Milk paint should be sealed with a top coat like the Furniture Wax or Hemp Oil.
Apply it to a piece of raw wood, stained wood or painted furniture with a cloth or brush. Buff after about 5-10 minutes. Apply additional coats for a higher sheen and more durability.
Is the wax a durable finish?
Yes, it’s a very durable finish. If it’s marred, just lightly sand and add another coat of wax. Refinishing the entire piece is not required.
Can I use the Furniture Wax over other paints or other waxes over Milk Paint?
Yes, you can use other waxes on Milk Paint and you can use MMS Furniture Wax on chalk paint, stained wood, etc.
What’s the difference between MMS Antiquing Wax and other “dark waxes” on the market?
MMS Antiquing Wax was developed specifically to be used to antique paint finishes. Dark waxes are meant to be used as a wood stain/wax in one. Because of that, the dark wax is very saturated with pigments and can look heavy and streaky on a finish if not mixed with clear wax or mineral spirits. MMS Antiquing Wax only has a small amount of pigment, so it works more like a glaze with the body of a wax. This product is also low odour and can be applied with a brush or clean cloth.
What is the Hemp Oil?
Hemp Oil is a finish that is a nice alternative to the wax. It is all natural, so it’s great for people who are sensitive to chemicals. Hemp Oil is best when it’s applied to a porous surface (like raw wood, stained wood or Milk Painted raw wood.) It will absorb into the surface, creating a durable finish. It can be used over Milk Paint over an old finish as well, though. Wipe on with a clean cloth, wipe away excess. Apply additional coats for more shine and durability. This is also a great product to revive dry, tired wood.