Chalk and mineral paint gets its name from its characteristic matte, velvety appearance that resembles the texture of chalk or minerals. The paint is typically water-based and contains a combination of natural ingredients, minerals, and pigments, along with a binding agent like acrylic or latex. Some formulations may also include chalk powder or other additives to enhance the paint's texture and adhesion.

One of the key features of chalk and mineral paint is its excellent coverage and adhesion properties. It can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, glass, and even fabric, with minimal surface preparation. Chalk and mineral paint is known for its ability to create a distressed or vintage look when sanded or waxed, allowing for creative and customized finishes.

Another advantage of chalk and mineral paint is its low odor and low VOC content, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional paints. It is also often associated with being water-based and easy to clean up with soap and water.

Chalk and mineral paint offers a wide range of color options and can be used to achieve various decorative effects, such as a shabby chic or farmhouse style. Its versatility and ability to transform furniture and decor items have made it a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts and professional painters alike.

Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paint is a type of paint that contains significantly lower levels of harmful chemicals compared to traditional paints. VOCs are chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing potentially harmful pollutants into the air. These pollutants can contribute to indoor air pollution and have adverse effects on human health and the environment.

Low VOC paints are formulated to minimize the presence of these volatile chemicals. They typically have VOC levels below specific regulatory thresholds, such as those set by government agencies or environmental certifications. By reducing the amount of VOCs, low VOC paints offer a more environmentally friendly and healthier alternative for both residential and commercial applications.

In addition to their positive impact on indoor air quality, low VOC paints also help mitigate the release of harmful emissions into the atmosphere. They contribute to the overall reduction of air pollution, making them a more sustainable choice. Low VOC paints are available in a wide range of colors and finishes, and they provide comparable performance and durability to traditional paints, ensuring that you can achieve beautiful and long-lasting results while minimizing the negative impact on the environment and human health.

Some VOC's are harmful to the environment, but Frenchic has VERY low presences in all its Ranges (less than 0.40%)

 Whilst we would love to say Frenchic is VOC - Free, check out this statement from the British Coatings Federation, 

"It’s impossible to ensure that every batch of paint is completely free of VOCs [as even water can contain trace amounts of VOC] just like it is impossible to ensure that every batch of a chocolate bar is nut-free because of the potential for trace nuts to be introduced at any point throughout the supply chain.”

Frenchic is certified Toy Safe to EN71-3:2013+A3:2019

Known as European Standard EN71-3 testing, is a vital assessment conducted on paints and coatings used in children's toys to ensure their safety. This testing standard focuses on the analysis of heavy metal content in paints, specifically substances like lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium. It aims to protect children from potential hazards associated with these harmful elements.

EN71-3 testing involves rigorous laboratory analyses and strict compliance with specified limits for heavy metal content. The testing process assesses the migration of heavy metals from the paint or coating onto surfaces accessible to children, such as through licking or prolonged contact. By conducting EN71-3 testing, manufacturers can verify that their paints and coatings adhere to strict safety standards, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to toxic substances.

Ensuring compliance with EN71-3 testing provides parents, guardians, and regulatory authorities with confidence in the safety of children's toys and the paints used on them. It helps to create a safer environment for children to play, minimizing the potential health risks associated with exposure to hazardous heavy metals. Manufacturers that prioritize EN71-3 testing demonstrate their commitment to producing safe and compliant products, contributing to the overall well-being and protection of children.

Check out our handy comparison tool here: The Frenchic Difference

Absolutely! Our skilled chemists have conducted extensive tests on painting ceramic tiles, and we are thrilled to share the official protocol for achieving great results using our Al Fresco Inside/Outside Range.

Preparation
- Clean the tiles thoroughly with sugar soap.
- Lightly sand the tiles to create a surface that the paint can adhere to.
- Ensure the tiles are completely dry before proceeding.

Paint Application:
- Use a brush or roller to apply the paint. Avoid overloading the applicator to achieve a smooth finish.
- Apply the first coat of paint and wait for two hours before applying the second coat.

Curing Period:
- Treat the painted tiles gently for the next two to three weeks to allow the paint to cure effectively.

Important Notes:
- After the curing period, you can clean the tiles with a mild detergent. However, avoid scrubbing or using harsh chemicals like limescale removers.
- In Australia, we have extensively tested Frenchic in tiled shower cubicles and are pleased to report its success. However, please be aware that Frenchic does not bond with silicone. As part of your preparation, you'll need to remove all silicone before painting. Once the paint has cured, you can reapply the silicone.

If you have any further questions or need more guidance, feel free to reach out to us.

Are you looking to achieve a smooth and streak-free finish when painting your projects?

Although Frenchic is Self Levelling, Here are some fundamental tips to help you achieve that desired flawless finish:

1. Choose the Right Brush
Selecting the appropriate brush for your painting project is the first step towards success. Opt for high-quality brushes like Frenchic brushes, which are designed to provide optimal chalk paint coverage. These brushes are recommended for your project, ensuring a smoother application. For a comprehensive overview of brush options, check out our dedicated brush guide.

2. Prioritize Preparation
A crucial aspect of obtaining a seamless finish is proper surface preparation. Ensure that your surface is clean and smooth before you start painting. If you paint over imperfections such as lumps, scratches, or remnants of old paint, they'll become apparent in your new paintwork. Explore our separate guide on preparation techniques. If your piece has deep scratches, fill them beforehand. For surfaces with flaking or uneven paint, sand down the lumps and remove any debris for a smooth foundation.

3. Master Brush Technique
Your painting technique plays a significant role in achieving a flawless finish. Consider the following brush techniques:

• Gentle Grip: Hold your brush with a light touch, similar to holding a pencil. Avoid gripping the entire brush tightly. Apply paint gently to the surface, avoiding excessive pressure.
• Consistent Direction: Paint in alignment with the wood grain to achieve a uniform appearance.
• Optimal Paint Application: You generally won't need more than three coats (or at most four) to complete your project. Insufficient paint on your brush can result in streaks or an uneven texture.
• Avoid Overworking: Refrain from repeatedly going over the same area as the paint dries. Overworking the paint can create unwanted texture. If you miss a spot, wait for an hour for the paint to dry before applying an additional coat.
• Work in Sections: To prevent paint from drying too quickly, tackle your project in manageable sections. Applying paint to drying areas can cause streaks and paint clumping.
• Maintain Brush Moisture: If your brush is drying out too quickly, a helpful tip is to mist the bristles to keep them moist. This maintains brush pliability without adding water to the paint.
• Optional Sanding: Some individuals prefer light sanding between coats for an exceptionally smooth finish. Use fine-grade sandpaper, such as 320 grit, for this purpose.
• Roller Technique: If you're using a roller, be aware that it can introduce texture if not used correctly. Apply paint with the roller and gently go over the surface with a brush while the paint is wet to smooth out any roller-created texture.

4. Practice and Patience
Rushing through your project and cutting corners can lead to an uneven finish that won't stand the test of time. Take your time, enjoy the process, and allow yourself to practice these techniques. Remember, practice makes perfect, and investing effort into your painting will yield a flawless and durable outcome.

By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to achieving a paint finish that's both visually pleasing and enduring. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance. Happy painting!

Proper maintenance of your Frenchic brushes ensures their longevity and performance. Here's a guide on how to take care of your brushes:

1. Quick Cleaning After Use: It's best to clean your brushes soon after use. Rinse them with warm water and a mild detergent. Using washing up liquid is a suitable option. Prompt cleaning prevents paint from drying and clogging the bristles.
2. Avoid Drying Paint: Brushes from the Lazy and Al Fresco ranges should not be allowed to dry with paint on them. Dried paint can be difficult to remove and may damage the bristles.
3. Removing Dried Paint: If paint does dry on your brush by accident, follow these steps:
4. Avoid Fabric Softener: We strongly advise against using fabric softener for cleaning your brushes. Some ingredients in fabric softeners can deteriorate the quality of your Frenchic brushes.

Please remember that maintaining your brushes is essential to ensure their optimal performance and longevity. By following these care instructions, you can continue to enjoy the exceptional quality of your Frenchic brushes. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to us

On top of our beautfiul Waxes, Frenchic offers two exceptional sealing options, each with its own unique features to cater to your specific project.

Finishing Coat:
Our Finishing Coat is a durable alternative to wax, perfect for enhancing the longevity of pieces using our Artisan Range. This option is ideal for furniture that receives heavier use or is susceptible to water splashes. Crafted from non-poisonous materials without any chemical solvents, the Finishing Coat is environmentally friendly and safe for people. It has undergone rigorous testing and holds a child-safe certification (EN 71:3). The Finishing Coat can be paired with FrenSheen to create remarkable finishes. It can also be applied over Lazy Range and Al Fresco for a light sheen instead of a matte finish.

Tuff Top Coat (TTC) - Suitable for Interior and Exterior Use:
Tuff Top Coat is specifically formulated for heavy-duty protection, making it perfect for various applications, including kitchen makeovers, furniture flips, flooring renovations, and more. Unlike the sheen of the Finishing Coat, TTC provides a flat matte finish that's resistant to hot cups and stains, thanks to its increased heat resistance. It has also passed the stringent ISO 11998 tests with a class 1 scrub rating, ensuring it stands up to rigorous cleaning. This indoor/outdoor product is incredibly robust and can be applied over painted surfaces, internal wooden floors, and porous vertical surfaces like concrete, unglazed tiles, and brickwork.

Usage:

• Finishing Coat: Apply two coats with a 30-minute interval using a Frenchic flat brush. Allow 16 hours for full curing. Suitable for adding durability and light sheen to your projects.
• Tuff Top Coat: Similarly, apply two coats 30 minutes apart with a Frenchic flat brush. Allow 16 hours for full curing. Perfect for heavy-duty protection, both indoors and outdoors, with a flat matte finish.

Both options are low in odor, VOC-free, and offer exceptional protection to your creations. Whether you're seeking a durable finish with a light sheen or a robust matte protection, Frenchic has you covered. Feel free to explore and choose the product that best suits your project requirements. If you have any further inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

While some Frenchic Fans have experimented with using Al Fresco on kitchen worktops, we do not recommend it for this purpose.

Al Fresco is primarily designed for furniture, and worktops have distinct characteristics that may impact the paint's performance. It's possible to give it a try, but thorough curing and potential maintenance might be necessary. Please note that achieving perfect results is not guaranteed.

Once worktops have been painted, we recommend adding 3 coats of our Tuff Top Coat for optimal protection and a durable finish.

To make sure paint is scrubbable, look for the highest international standard – ISO 11998 Class 1 Wet Scrub rating. This ensures that your paint has passed an internationally recognised test using a scrub testing machine. Specifically, it means it loses less than 5 micrometres of film after 200 scrubs.

You Certainly can!

Should you not wish to purchase a 2.5L tin of your chosen colour, you can use our 750ml or 250ml Tins, we recommend you water the paint down by 10% if using these ranges on walls

• White marks can be caused by physical contact or moisture and temperature
• Random chalky marks will typically settle down once curing is complete, but can be removed by gently wiping with a soft or damp cloth
• Bloom may be remedied by air and sunlight, though it often requires light sanding and another coat of paint.

Wondering why there are white marks on a painted wall or piece of furniture? There are two common causes. One is physical contact, while the other is moisture and temperature.

White marks from physical contact

If you spot small, seemingly random, chalky marks and patches, this is probably down to physical contact. During the curing process, general, daily use may cause chalky looking marks to appear on areas which have been subject to physical contact. This is more noticeable on darker colours.

Getting rid of white marks

The appearance of these white marks should settle down once curing is complete – which, providing the paint is applied as directed on the tin, can take up to 3 weeks. In the meantime, you can remove marks by wiping gently with a soft or damp cloth – we do not recommend scrubbing.

If you wish to apply Clear Wax, Finishing Coat or Tuff Top Coat, this will stop the marks from appearing straightaway. However, bear in mind that, these products will also change the finish or sheen of the painted surface, so will need to be applied over the whole piece.

Paint bloom

On the other hand, you might be dealing with generalised, cloudy or milky looking patches. This is known as paint bloom. As the term implies, bloom is a clouding of the painted surface. The surface takes on an irregular, milky or mottled – sometimes almost opalescent – effect in areas.

Why? It’s not always possible to pinpoint an exact reason, but it’s usually a combination of factors, including:

• Moisture – cool, damp air can condense on wet paint during application, or during initial curing.
• Change in temperature – at any time during application or initial curing
• Insufficient time between application of coats.

All these factors can affect the rate at which the paint dries and cures. Cool and/or damp conditions, in particular, slow these processes, resulting in moisture being trapped.

Getting rid of paint bloom

It’s important to ensure weather conditions and/or ventilation are suitable during paint application and initial curing. In addition, always adhere to the instructions on the tin for the correct minimum amount of time to leave between coats of paint.

Often, in the presence of dry air and sunlight, bloom can remedy itself. If not, it may be necessary to very lightly sand the affected areas, and then apply another full coat of paint – ensuring conditions are suitable as outlined above.