How To Mix Milk Paint

Simple To Use

Mix: Measure equal amounts of water to powder. The one pint package contains about 1-1/2 cups of powder, and when mixed with 1-1/2 cups of water will make about one pint. We find it easiest to start with 1/2 cup of water and mix to 1/2 cup of powder. Start by pouring the water into a jar with a tight fitting lid and then add Milk Paint powder. Shake it up! If you have hard water we recommend using distilled water. We find the powder mixes best with distilled water. Let sit for 10-15 minutes and shake again. At this time you may check if it’s lumpy or needs more water. You only want to mix up what you’re going to use right away.

Milk paint is best used fresh. Milk Paint is best on bare wood but if you’re painting a non porous surface be sure to clean your project with denatured alcohol or TSP to ensure surface is free of oils and dirt, etc. After you clean your piece, give it a light sanding with 120 grit sander paper. If you don't want a chippy distressed finish you can add Extra Bond to your first coat of Milk Paint. For your first coat we recommend a 2:1 two part Milk Paint : one part Extra Bond. You can also use the Extra Bond on your second coat. You can add less bond to your second coat. If you do want a chippy distressed finish, skip the Extra Bond. The Milk Paint will either chip up when dry or not. It’s a surprise! Apply with a quality brush, we recommend Zibra brushes.

Milk paint is somewhat streaky and dimensional in color and this is normal. Sometimes the first coat can be scary. Have no fear, it will get better. Let the first coat dry for a half hour or as long as it needs depending on weather conditions. After the first coat you can either lightly sand with fine sandpaper. Or just apply second coat of straight Milk Paint. After you apply two coats you can decide if you need a third, it all depends on you. It’s your masterpiece. After the Milk Paint is completely dry, you can leave it overnight to dry or just wait a few hours. At this time you can distress with fine grit sandpaper or leave it.

Sealer- We recommend sealing the paint on any surface that is susceptible to spills or if you want to be able to wash a surface. There are a few options; waxes, hemp oil, tung oil, or water based polyurethane. Best Used Fresh: Milk paint is always best mixed up fresh. If you happen to have leftover paint, or need to wait a day to finish your project you may keep any unused paint in a sealed container in the refrigerator (even plastic wrap held in place with a rubber band is fine). It keeps best if mixed on the thinner side, even with a thin layer of water put on top of the paint mixture.

Being true to the original formulas we do not add unnatural preservatives or extenders to our paint and due to its organic nature it can thicken and gel up over time, so it is best to mix up what you plan to use that day if possible. Any unused powder can be stored indefinitely in an airtight container such as a jar.

Our Milk Paints are organic, non-toxic and environmentally safe. Made from natural materials: milk protein, lime, earth pigments and clay fillers… no petrochemicals, leads, solvents, or other harmful additives. With our traditional Milk Paint formula you can achieve an authentic “old look” immediately without the use of complicated antiquing kits. This is an excellent painted finish for all types of furniture, children’s toys, wood floors and cupboards, woodwork, traditional plaster walls or stenciling. 

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  • Stacy Sidman on

    Just bought a piece from you yesterday! Love it. Do you teach classes?

  • Julie Belisle on

    Hello
    Im about to purchase and use your milk paint for the first time. I do not want a chippy look so I plan to purchase your Extra Bond as well. My desired result is a smooth, beautiful, non chippy finish. What would you recommend for a sealer to accomplish this?

    Also, do you plan to have another painting class? This will be my first furniture project. I’ve read a lot and watch you on Instagram so I think I know what im doing but im sure a class will help!
    Thanks,
    Julie


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