What is Milk Paint?

It’s a powdered, all natural paint (no VOC’s) that has been around for thousands of years.  It was found in the pyramids in Egypt and on ancient cave paintings.  It’s 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.

What is the difference between Milk Paint and Chalk Paint TM?

They are two totally different kinds of paint.  Chalk Paint TM comes premixed in a quart and is great for the adhesive qualities and ability to paint almost any surface without prep work.  Milk Paint comes in a powder form and is mixed with water to turn it into paint.  It has great adhesion when the bonding agent is added directly to the first coat of paint.  Most surfaces do not need to be prepped or require only light sanding.  Without the bonding agent, Milk Paint will resist some (not all) existing finishes (painted or poly finished) in some places and will naturally self-distress, creating the “chippy” look.

What is the Furniture Wax?

The Furniture Wax is used as a protective topcoat.  It’s very similar to other waxes on the market (Annie Sloan, Fiddes, Briwax), except it’s a little creamier and very low odor.

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 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. I have it on my kitchen table and it has held up beautifully to two young boys!

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, flat latex, stained wood, etc.

Is Milk Paint good for raw wood?

Yes, it’s one of the best paints for raw wood.  It acts like a stain, but looks like a paint.  The color will penetrate the wood for a lasting finish that won’t chip or flake.  This makes it an ideal paint for raw wood cabinets or floors.

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.

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.  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 odor and can be applied with a brush or clean cloth.

Do I have to prime before using Milk Paint?

No.  You can simply apply the bonding agent to the first coat of paint.  That will make the first coat act almost like a colored 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 prep the piece.  (Watch the video on Getting the “Chippy” Look on the tutorials page.