EXPERT ADVICE

Sonica Bucksteg, Dulux colour expert,

replies Surfaces must be adequately prepared before painting to provide a ‘key’ for subsequent layers. If the piece has plenty of detail requiring loads of intricate sanding, you can achieve a reasonable ‘key’ by scrubbing the surfaces using steel wool and a sugar soap solution; the steel wool will allow you to get into all the nooks and crannies.

If the existing varnish or paint is in a sound condition (not flaking, peeling or crazing), you can lightly sand the surfaces with 220-grit sandpaper (if smooth) or 180-grit (if scratched or pitted) and follow with 220-grit. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth and wash down with a sugar soap solution; allow surfaces to dry thoroughly. Then apply a primer such as Dulux Supergrip followed by an acrylic PVA or enamel; it’s best to follow through with a particular brand.

For best results:

1 Be aware of ambient temperature – if it’s too hot, paint won’t flow or it’ll dry too quickly.

2 Monitor moisture and humidity as these can affect adhesion between coats. 3 Use a good quality brush! 4 Thin your first coat of colour slightly. 5 Allow each coat to dry thoroughly. 6 Sand lightly with fine sandpaper between coats and also wipe surfaces thoroughly between coats to remove any signs of dust.

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Once sanded, previously glossy surfaces should appear dull all over, indicating a slightly etched surface that will hold paint better.