How Much Milk Paint Do I Need? | Real Milk Paint Co. (2024)

Whether you’re starting from scratch or simply want paint cover for an existing finish, Real Milk Paint gets the job done quickly and reliably. Designed to mix with water at a 1:1 ratio, Real Milk Paint comes powdered so you can mix up as much or as little as you need for the task at hand. Once mixed, our formulation lasts up to two weeks, so you have ample time to paint your piece of furniture, kitchen cabinets or handmade raw wood crafts. Let’s look at what makes Real Milk Paint a great choice for your project, then explore just how much you need for your DIY design.

Advantages of Using RealMilk Paint

Create the ideal consistency for your painting task by adding more or less water to Real Milk Paint powder during the mixing process. If you need a thin wash to achieve trendy distressing techniques, just add a little more water to the formulation, but if you want heavier coverage, mix it with a little less. Our Real Milk Paint colors boast deep, high-quality pigments, so their hues hold true no matter the mixture you use on your kitchen cabinets or piece of furniture. Additionally, we offer 56 shades of milk paint products, ranging from monochromatic hues like white, gray and black to primary, pastel and neutral colors.

Another advantage to using Real Milk Paint for your DIY refinishing projects is its environmentally friendly formulation. Our milk paint contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), so you don’t need extra ventilation when using it for projects. A nontoxic formulation made from all-natural, organic materials such as casein also means Real Milk Paint offers a safe option for homes with kids and pets. Quick dry time and fuss-free adhesion to most surfaces without sanding and priming round out the advantages of using our milk paint products on everything from raw wood to upcycled garage sale finds.

How MuchMilk PaintDo I Need?

How Much Milk Paint Do I Need? | Real Milk Paint Co. (1)To help yourmakeovergo successfully, you need to have all the necessary supplies, including ample RealMilk Paint, at the ready. Different items, of course, require different amounts ofmilk paintproducts, so it’s helpful to know typical amounts for commonDIYprojects. In most instances, however,milk paintprovides 100square feetof coverage per quart, though most of the time you need at least asecond coatto get the results you desire.

In general, however, a pint of RealMilk Paintshould provide enough coverage for the following:

  • 2 to 3 small tables
  • 2 to 3 accent chairs
  • 1 small vanity or desk
  • 1 small bookcase or coffee table
  • 1 headboard

For medium-size projects, a quart of RealMilk Painttypically covers:

  • 1 dining table with extension leaves
  • 1 king-size headboard and footboard
  • 1 china cabinet or tall hutch cabinet
  • 1 chest, dresser or armoire
  • 1 double-sink bathroom vanity

When you’re working on larger projects, consider gallon containers of RealMilk Paint. With roughly 400square feetof coverage power, our gallon size typically provides plenty ofmilk paintproductto cover standard-sizekitchen cabinetsor two to three small bathroom cabinets.

The Ins and Outs of Milk Paint Coverage

While the 1-quart-to-100-square-feet formula for milk paint coverage works well for figuring out just how much milk paint cover you need for projects, you should consider a few other factors. For example, very light colors like antique white or snow white paint may require more than a second coat, especially if you’re painting over darker hues. Likewise, raw wood tends to absorb your first coat of paint deeply, so you may need some extra Real Milk Paint to mix up when you’re finishing handmade chairs and furnishings.

Additionally, consider where you’re using the finished project before you slap on acoat ofmilk paint. If you plan on using items on your porch, patio or deck, mix up your RealMilk Paintwith ourOutdoor Additiveto give it staying power when exposed to the elements. Also, tricky surfaces like melamine and laminate typically requireprimingandsandingbefore painting withchalk paintoracrylicpaint, but ourmilk paintsticks well — noprimingrequired! — when mixed withUltra BondAdhesionPromoterbonding agent.

FinishingMilk PaintDIYProjects

Real Milk Paint adheres well to numerous surfaces, from concrete and metal, wood and glass to plastic, plaster and laminate, making it a flexible option for DIY projects. It does, however, require you to apply a sealer after you add your paint cover to ensure durability over time. Rather than using harsh products such as polyurethane clear coat for your topcoat, though, consider low-to-no-VOC options offered by The Real Milk Paint Co. Our wax products work particularly well for finishing surfaces coated with milk paint, and they come in a range of sheens and tints to aid you in completing your DIY project to your complete satisfaction.

To achieve a trendy farmhouse look, try distressing yourpaint coverwith our Chippy Pasteand finishing the look with one of ourfinishing creams, which come in dead flatmatte, low sheen and gloss to help you achieve your creative vision. Alternatively, consider usingNatural Crackle Paint Finish, then employing one of our finishing oilssuch ashemp oilfor asealer. To get a distressed look with just atopcoatproduct, select one of ourfinishing glazesthat impart rich espresso, mahogany or mocha tint with just a little rubbing. These RealMilk Paintproductsgo on easily with a clean, lint-free rag,foam brushor paintbrush, ensuring readily available application options.

RealMilk Paintdelivers reliable paint coverage and offers exceptionaldurability. One of the oldest paints known to man,milk paintproductshelp you get the job done in a fast, easy and eco-friendly way. Now that you know just how much RealMilk Paintyou need for yourDIYneeds, start making plans and getting crafty.

How Much Milk Paint Do I Need? | Real Milk Paint Co. (2024)

FAQs

How many coats of milk paint do I need? ›

Most Pieces Require 2 Coats

After all, you're only human and bound to miss some spots! Our paint typically requires two coats if you're applying it like normal i.e. not a stain. Keep in mind that the first coat of Milk Paint will look streaky, uneven and a bit ugly!

How much does a pint of milk paint cover? ›

In general, however, a pint of Real Milk Paint should provide enough coverage for the following: 2 to 3 small tables. 2 to 3 accent chairs. 1 small vanity or desk.

What is the ratio of milk paint to water? ›

No matter if you need a little or a lot, we recommend mixing milk paint at a ratio of one part powdered paint to one part water because it makes the mix roughly as thick as pancake batter for even application.

Do you sand between coats of milk paint? ›

Let the paint dry 2 to 4 hours between each coat. Also, sand or buff between coats of applying milk paint using 320 to 400 grit sandpaper, scotch brite works great here. Note: sanding is not needed for adhesion, only for smoothness. Once you're done sanding, remove the dust with a rag or tack cloth.

Do I need to sand between coats of general finishes milk paint? ›

Finish sand between coats with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding sponge or 400-grit sandpaper to improve smoothness and adhesion.

Why is milk paint so expensive? ›

Unlike liquid latex and oil-based paints that come in cans, milk paint is typically sold as a powder in packets. Users mix the powder with water, which causes the lime to activate the casein. This makes milk paint somewhat less convenient and more expensive than pre-mixed commercial paint.

How long is the shelf life of milk paint? ›

If the can is in good condition, unopened and stored in correct temperatures, water based products can last 3-5 years. Avoid temperatures below 50°F/10°C or above 80°F/26°C and keep from freezing. Note, a can of paint that is 3 years old will not look like a can of paint that is 6 months to 1 year old.

What is a good top coat for milk paint? ›

Oil Based Urethane Gel & Liquid Wipe-on Top Coats
  • Arm-R-Seal Oil Based Topcoat.
  • Oil Based Gel Topcoat.
  • Hard Wax Oil & Hardener.
  • Oil Based Wood Bowl Finish.

What are the disadvantages of milk paint? ›

Milk Paint Cons

Because milk paint is a porous paint variety, it requires sealing to keep out contaminants. Hemp oil, finishing cream or glaze formula, and beeswax are a few routes to consider when selecting a finish. Be sure to opt for an environmentally friendly method, or you'll forgo milk paint's natural benefit.

How do you get a smooth finish with milk paint? ›

Tips on achieving a smooth milk paint finish

After your paint is dry, smooth out the finish with a fine grit sanding paper or block (we recommend 220 or higher). This will give your piece a smooth finish ready for hemp oil or one of our finishing waxes. Applying the top coat will add to the smooth feel of the finish.

How long between coats of Real Milk Paint? ›

Allow 30 minutes between coats, or overnight if using Extra Bond. After the final coat, gently rub smooth with a very fine grade sanding block, which will even it out.

Do you top coat milk paint? ›

General Finishes Milk Paint is a high tech mineral based paint created using modern technology. We recommend a top coat if you want to increase the sheen or for more durability in high traffic areas such as a table top or kitchen cabinets. Waxes are optional, and are usually used for style and design purposes.

Do you have to prep for milk paint? ›

3 – Porous Surfaces Need Little Preparation

One of the major benefits of milk paint is that it adheres readily to any natural, porous surface, thanks to milk protein. With just a simple cleaning, you're ready to paint! Porous surfaces include raw wood, concrete, brick, unglazed pottery, cinder block, and more.

Does milk paint require a top coat? ›

General Finishes Milk Paint is a high tech mineral based paint created using modern technology. We recommend a top coat if you want to increase the sheen or for more durability in high traffic areas such as a table top or kitchen cabinets. Waxes are optional, and are usually used for style and design purposes.

Do you need to top coat rustoleum milk paint? ›

For full coverage, apply multiple coats. For added protection, use Rust-Oleum® Chalked Paint Matt Clear Protective Top Coat.

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