FAQ, i.e. our frequently asked questions

FAQ, or frequently asked questions

Q: Do I need to apply wax or varnish on top of the paint?

A: No need. The new chalk paint from the Frenchic Paint series has protective properties already built into the paint - How convenient!

Q: Where can I easily see all the Frenchic shades?

A: From here.

Q: Where can I find application instructions, drying times and other important information about the paint I chose?

A: There are instructions on the side of each can of paint. There is a new tab on the website for each shade and product, which you can open to read more instructions and information.

Q: No! The product I need is sold out! When will more be available?

A:Due to high demand, Frenchic products are also sold out.

If the product you are looking for is sold out, it will be automatically replenished in time. We do not respond to availability inquiries separately, as delivery times vary greatly. You can also ask your nearest retailer about the availability of the product: https://frenchicpaint.fi/ pages/frenchic-jalleenmyyjat

Q: Do I need to sand the varnish off the surface of the furniture?

A: Maybe - yes or no. It's not always that simple, but we'll try to keep the answer simple: If the lacquer surface is intact, it doesn't need to be sanded off, or even worth it, but just roughen it up so that the surface "mattes". If the lacquer surface is cracked, craquelure or otherwise detached from its base, then the loose surface must always be removed. It depends on the condition of the lacquer surface. An intact lacquer layer acts as a very protective surface for the wood, so it's not worth removing. Light roughening by hand is usually enough for smaller pieces of furniture.

Q: How much paint is needed for one wall?

A: Calculate the size of the wall: height x width = m2. A large 2.5 liter can of wall paint is enough for about 36m2.

- when you paint twice, there is enough paint for at least 18m2. Frenchic interior wall paint is highly pigmented and has an ultra-matte gloss level.

Panel walls and ceilings will use more paint than normal, as will textured wallpaper walls, or if there is a large difference in tone between the selected shade and the base. Untreated wood surfaces will also absorb more paint than normal. Treat/seal the surface first with a Finishing Coating, and the paint consumption will be reduced.

Q: Is Frenchic paint water-based?

A: All Frenchic series paints and finishing coatings are 100% water-based.

Q: Is Frenchic wax self-igniting?

A: Frenchic waxes are not self-igniting, they are natural waxes, beeswax-based, solid and soft, easy-to-apply furniture waxes.

Q: Which Frenchic paint is suitable for a humid space?

A: Al Fresco paint is suitable for painting damp spaces and ceramic tiles .

However, not for areas with standing water or in a sauna.

Q: Where can I find instructions on choosing a paint for my project?

A: Here you can see which Frenchic paint is suitable for your project.

Q: Where can I easily find more information about Frenchic series? Or work instructions?

A: For more information and working instructions, please see each shade, open a new tab: INFORMATION.

There are also working instructions. You can also see brief information about the sets and their suitability in this Quick Guide .

Q: Why is mixing paint so important?

A: With carefully mixed paint, you will definitely get the right shade and the right consistency.

We advise our customers to mix the paint as carefully and for as long as possible, including the bases. The pigments in Frenchic paints are heavy and sink quickly to the bottom of the can. If you only dip the brush into the surface of the paint, you will not get full coverage because the color pigments in the paint have settled to the bottom.

Careful mixing of the paint before and during a painting project is important. Frenchic paints are highly pigmented and the naturally heavy color pigment and other paint ingredients easily settle to the bottom of the paint can.

Unmixed paint may not achieve the correct shade intended by the manufacturer and more layers are needed than intended.

Unmixed paint is also thinner than normal, which affects durability.

Careful and long mixing of the primers ensures a perfect, silky consistency of the paint, even mixing of the protective agents and an optimal final result.

Q: Will lime paint last on furniture and outdoors?

A: There are different types of lime paints on the market.

Only the chalk paints in the Frenchic series have protective properties already built into the paint, which makes Frenchic paints extremely durable - however, we have not compromised on the beautiful matte finish that our customers love!

Al Fresco is a weatherproof paint series that is durable for outdoor furniture.

Al Fresco paint has all the necessary protective properties: anti-mold and UV protection. Painted furniture is stored in a sheltered place during the winter, which keeps the paint surface in good condition.

The Lazy Range series of paints features a completely new innovation; liquid wax has been added to the paint, which when hardened makes the surface extremely durable without the need for other coatings.

Lazy Range series paints are furniture paints for indoor use.

All paints, waxes and finishes in the Frenchic Paint series have been tested and researched - and have received, for example, the 'Toy Safe' certification, which means that Frenchic paints are safe to use on children's furniture and even children's toys. The Frenchic series paints do not contain, for example, lead or plastic.

You can greatly influence the durability of the paint surface by following the painting instructions and drying times.

Always read the instructions on the side of the paint can before you start.

At least two coats of paint provide moisture protection. Paint the pieces all over to reduce the risk of wooden furniture becoming damaged by moisture.

Also read the Let's Paint Outdoors! instructions before you start.

However, if - life happens - and a scratch occurs on the paintwork, touch-up painting is a normal and easy procedure.

Q: What is the difference between Lazy Range and Al Fresco series paints?

A: Lazy Range - for indoor use - is a completely new innovation: wax chalk paint - chalk paint with wax already in the paint!

In addition, the paint has other great features that you won't find in other chalk paint series, such as self-spreading, which gives you that gorgeous, smooth surface in the Frenchic style.

The Lazy Range series paints have a matte finish and are intended for painting interior furniture. The wax in the paint hardens into a durable and wipe-resistant surface, and you can also use the Lazy Range series shades for painting kitchen cabinets.

Al Fresco - indoors and outdoors - is also a completely new type of chalk paint that can withstand rain and temperature fluctuations on outdoor furniture!

Only paint furniture that you can store indoors during the winter.

The Al Fresco series paints have good protective properties that make the surface hard and durable.

It takes about three weeks for the paint to harden to its final durability.

You can use Al Fresco shades on your furniture that you use outdoors in the garden, on the balcony or indoors. At least two coats of paint provide moisture protection. Paint the pieces all over to reduce the damage to the wooden furniture from moisture.

Read more about the features of all Frenchic series here.

So no more waxing or varnishing - just painting!

Q: Is Trim Paint glossy?

A: We say: satin matte. A slight difference in gloss level will be noticeable when Trim Paint is used with our ultra matte Wall Paint. Otherwise, the finish is very similar to Al Fresco and Lazy Range.

The Trim Paint series has a different composition, slightly thinner, than the Al Fresco and Lazy Range series.

Trim Paint is an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets, metal radiators, doors, moldings and panels - even for furniture indoors.

Trim Paint is a highly abrasion-resistant trim and door paint, available in shade pairs with wall paints.

Q: Why is there a difference in shade between cans of my paint?

A: Often the difference in tone is due to unmixed paint. Sometimes it is due to the base color and base material, as well as the number of layers - sometimes it is due to their combined effect.

The industry standard recommendation is to reserve enough paint for the project and ensure that the paint cans are from the same batch - just like with wallpaper.

If the same batch is not possible, you can mix all the jars together, ensuring that the shade is always the same throughout the project.

When spot painting, we recommend painting the entire area rather than a small patch, as the spot painting often remains visible. This is affected by the paint layers, painting tools, the thickness of the paint layers, drying and mixing the paint.

Small differences in tone are possible during the manufacturing process, but larger differences are very rare. Larger differences in tone can often be found in the above-mentioned solutions.

Q: How long does the paint need to dry before waxing or other finishing?

A: Fresh paint cannot be worked - waxed with a stiff wax brush, for example. It is better to let the paint dry completely between coats than to apply the coats too quickly. Frenchic paints are dust-dry quickly, even in half an hour, but waxing should be left for later - make sure the surface can withstand waxing by testing. Wait at least 2-4 hours.

You can apply several thin layers of wax, let each layer dry before applying the next - about 30 minutes. Finally, polish the waxed surface with a lint-free cloth.

You can apply the finishing coating to the paint surface after 48 hours or later.

Q: How long does it take for Frenchic Wax and Finishing Coat to dry?

A: The Finishing Coat dries quickly, within 15-30 minutes.

For best results, 2-3 coats are required. Once dry, the surface is moisture-resistant and clear. Finishing Coat is a solvent-free, water-based, safe, certified Frenchic product. Apply the product conveniently with a sponge for a beautiful, even finish.

Matte Finishing Coating, Tuff Top Coat, the interval between coats is approximately one hour depending on drying conditions. Minimum two coats, application can be done with a sponge. Final hardness is achieved in 16 hours. Matte coating, like other added coatings, can slightly change the tone of the paint, so test the coatings on an inconspicuous area first.

Adding coatings over Al Fresco or Lazy Range series paints should be done no earlier than 48 hours after the product's own drying times.

Frenchic waxes are natural waxes, soft to apply. It usually takes 30-45 minutes for the wax to dry to dust-dry, at which point you can apply a new layer of wax. Re-waxing should be done every 12 months if necessary, especially on surfaces that are heavily worn (e.g. chair seats). The waxes are for indoor use only. Learn more about the natural waxes in the Frenchic series and their versatile uses on the Frenchic Blogs . If you wish, you can finally polish the wax surface with a lint-free cloth. Wax is always the last layer.

Adding coatings over Al Fresco or Lazy Range series paints should be done no earlier than 48 hours later.

Q: The paint seems to dry quickly, can I use the furniture immediately?

A: Frenchic paints dry quickly to dust-dry - in about an hour - but still give the drying process time before using the furniture.

The drying of paint and the hardening of wax and other important protective properties in the paint are different things.

Allow the paint surfaces to dry for 48 hours at normal temperature before using carefully. Wax paint, Lazy Range and Al Fresco series paints reach their final hardness in a few weeks.

Until then, be a little more careful with the paint surface than usual, as the paint is still fresh. Read the painting instructions on the side of the paint can before starting your painting project and join the Finnish FB group Frenchic Paint Finland - you will find good painting tips in the group . Read more about the durability of the paint surface on the Frenchic Blogs.

Q: Do I need to do any groundwork?

A: With lime paints, there is no need for complicated and time-consuming priming or underpainting. The Frenchic series paints have excellent adhesion, as with lime paints in general.

That's why it's important to remove all excess between the paint and the base so that the paint can adhere to its base.

The preparations are always the same, no matter what you are painting: first wash, then sand or lightly roughen the surface, then paint at least twice on a clean and dry surface with carefully mixed paint.

Don't paint a dirty surface. Careful preparation is the key to the durability of the paint surface. At the very least, clean the surface or piece of furniture you are going to paint, while you can examine the surface of the piece of furniture and decide whether you want to fill in the scratches and holes or do you want them to be visible and give the piece of furniture a worn look?

Remove the handles and knobs - fill the holes if you plan to replace the handles with different ones. The surface to be painted must be clean, dry and free of grease. Light sanding or roughening the surface with a sanding sponge before painting is recommended, especially if the surface to be painted is smooth, shiny and slippery. 

Don't believe the talk that no preparations need to be made! A rule of thumb could be that surfaces that will be subjected to heavy wear should be roughened or sanded carefully (chair seats, table tops, etc.).

After cleaning, the surface is sanded. Painting is done on a dry and clean surface. Light surface roughening or sanding is always an important step and affects the durability of the paint surface, do not skip these steps.

Try Frenchic Paint's own Sugar Soap solution to wash away dust, grease and dirt. Wash the surface before sanding to avoid sanding impurities into the wood. Also a great product for removing sanding dust.

Adhesion can be increased and improved by applying a layer of Finishing Coat to the surface before painting. Even if the paint adheres to the surface without any preparation, the end result will be better and more durable when the preparation is done carefully.

Whatever detergent you use, it is important to rinse all detergents off the surface with clean water before painting. Frenchic's own Sugar Soap is a high-performance concentrate, made specifically for cleaning furniture before painting. It foams well and you will notice that dirt still comes off the seemingly clean furniture when you wash it. Also read the useful Painting Instructions.

Q: What can go wrong?

A: The biggest contributor to unsuccessful painting work is unrealistic expectations and the arbitrary implementation of instructions in a fast-paced painting project - skipping steps.

In our experience, people often want to skip these three steps altogether: mixing the paint, cleaning the surface to be painted, and roughening it.

However, the thing is very simple: if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail - Fail to Prepare - Prepare to Fail.

Although painting is quick, it is also worth setting aside time for other steps (cleaning, roughening, drying the layers, etc.). Poor-quality and dirty painting tools and thick layers of paint, combined with an overworked fresh paint surface, also cause an undesirable end result.

The paint dries relatively quickly, but it only reaches its full hardness after a few weeks - you should be more careful with fresh paint surfaces than usual, and be careful when using painted surfaces such as kitchen cabinets, stairs, utility furniture and floors.

You will notice a huge difference in the durability of the paint surface when you let the paint reach its final hardness. Plan your time for each stage of your painting project.

Please do not place a TV, heavy pots or other objects on a freshly painted surface - or put cushions on a garden chair immediately after painting: the paint will not be able to dry normally under the cushions or cloths.

Protect the paint surface from wear for at least 48 hours and then use the surfaces carefully for three weeks.

We recommend experimenting with tones and using instruments on a practice piece before your first larger project.

It's always a good idea to read the instructions on the side of the paint can before starting a project. You can find great painting tips for various projects on the Frenchic Blogs!


Q: Can I paint previously oiled outdoor furniture or a front door?

A: If your furniture or exterior doors have previously been oiled, the durability of the paint cannot be guaranteed.

It is worth asking the furniture supplier about the original surface treatment or wood quality. A test painting is also a good way to ensure the suitability of the products.

The type of wood can affect the durability of the paint, some types of wood are naturally oily, such as teak or other 'hardwood' types. Some garden furniture may have been factory-finished with an oil-based coating or wood preservative, which is intended to prevent other substances from adhering to the surface. These protective treatments are not intended to be painted over.

Read useful "Painting outdoors" tips here.


Q: How do I store my painted outdoor furniture during the winter?

A: Store your painted garden furniture in appropriate storage during the winter, protected from the weather, and prepare for normal spot painting in the spring if the furniture has been dented during cramped storage/stacking and the paint surface has cracked.

Outdoor and wooden furniture is exposed to a lot of stress: temperature fluctuations, moving and stacking furniture, pollen, needles, tree leaves, scorching sun, rain and humidity put a strain on the surfaces – sunscreen, sand, grill grease and bird droppings and other loose dirt should be cleaned from painted surfaces immediately, using water or a very mild detergent without abrasive cleaning agents.

Terrace furniture under a canopy in the summer will stay beautiful longer than furniture directly under the open sky. It is a good idea to wipe and dry any rainwater left on the surface of furniture on a balcony or in the yard without protection immediately, or to raise the furniture to a rain shelter during heavy rains. Take care of your painted furniture, and the paint surface will remain good for a long time.

Store furniture protected from the weather during the winter. The best possible storage location is a dry, cool and well-ventilated winter storage room - tightly covering the furniture can keep it too damp.

Only paint outdoor furniture that you can store protected from the weather during the winter.

Q: The paint is quite thick - can I thin it?

A: We recommend using the Frenchic Paint series paints as is because they have good protective properties.

However, if you want to thin the paint, always do so in a separate container. Use only clean tap water for thinning. It is not recommended to store thinned paint.

Tip! Also try the handy 'spray bottle technique': lightly spray water on the surface while you paint - others dip the brush in a container of water before dipping it into the paint - both techniques also give an even paint finish.

Frenchic series paints are suitable for spray painting and you can thin them by e.g. 5-10% depending on your equipment. Please note that when painting with a spray gun, the paint consumption is often higher than with a brush or roller.

The ingredients of the paint; chalk and minerals as well as color pigments are heavier than in conventional paints and they naturally sink to the bottom of the paint can during storage and the paint may initially feel thicker from the bottom - careful and long mixing is necessary always before you use the paint - and also during longer painting projects.

It is a good idea to carefully close the empty paint can or transfer the paint drop to a smaller, airtight container. The paint thickens during the drying process as water begins to evaporate.

Q:How long will my paint last?

A: An opened can of paint has a limited shelf life and the shelf life of the paint is affected by the conditions of use and storage. Water-based Frenchic paints cannot withstand cold storage, but will quickly cool and freeze.

It is not recommended to use frozen/melted or dirty paint. Use a separate paint container when painting to prevent construction or sanding dust, outdoor pollen or other dirt from painting equipment from getting into the paint can.

Check any unused paint that has been stored for a long time or is in short supply before use. Stir the paint thoroughly, stirring it thoroughly and evenly. Do a test painting. If the paint shade looks right, the consistency is even and the paint dries normally, you can use the paint. Clean the lid of the paint can well so that you can close it tightly or alternatively use a sealed plastic jar for storage and store the jar with the lid down. The paint will start to thicken and dry during storage if air gets into the container.

The best place to store paint is at normal or cool, even indoor temperatures, away from direct sunlight. An unopened can of paint will last for at least two years, usually much longer.

Q: How do I use Frensheen metallic highlighter?

A: You can make your own beautiful, non-toxic metallic paint using Frensheen pigment powders and apply it with a brush like regular paint. The metallic powder is mixed with Finishing Coat.

First, pour the liquid, Finishing Coat, into a container and mix in the Frensheen powder - a little at a time! You will notice how abundant the powder is and you can control the color saturation of the paint yourself. For smaller projects, start by measuring a tablespoon of both ingredients.

You can also mix Frensheen metallic pigment powder with TTC or Frenchic waxes!

Tip! You can mix pigment powders together and make your own rose gold, antique gold, or other unique shade blends.

Q: What are VOCs, and how is Frenchic Paint different from other products in terms of them?

A: VOCs are harmful volatile organic compounds found in many paints. These compounds, which are hazardous to health and the environment, evaporate into the air, causing allergic or hypersensitivity reactions.

Long-term exposure to harmful organic compounds can lead to damage to internal organs or the central nervous system, among other things. Short-term exposure causes, for example, eye irritation, headaches, shortness of breath, fatigue, skin symptoms, visual disturbances and weakness.

Frenchic paints have minimal VOC concentrations, the limit is the UKCA and European Toy Safe certification EN71-3: 2013+A3: 2019. Read more in the blog post, Instructions for more sensitive painters.

Q: Is Frenchic Paint safe to use in a child's room?

A: Indeed! All paints, waxes and finishing coatings in the Frenchic Paint series are EN71:3 certified (Toy Safe) and are safe to use on children's furniture, toys, nursery walls and bedrooms.

This is a quick guide to choosing a paint kit.

Q: Can I paint ceramic tiles with Frenchic paints?

A: Yes! The Al Fresco series paints and the wall paint series are officially tested and approved for painting ceramic tiles.

As a base, carefully prepare the surfaces; clean and roughen the surfaces and paint in thin layers.

Our paint is not suitable for areas where water stands, such as shower floors, pools or similar, or areas with high humidity, such as a sauna.

Frenchic paints cannot be used as a waterproofing agent for structures. You can see more great Frenchic projects in Frenchic's own FB group . You can read more about painting ceramic tiles in the Blog posts.

Q: Can I paint kitchen cabinets with Frenchic paints?

A: Yes! Al Fresco, Lazy Range and Trim Paint shades are well suited for painting kitchen cabinets and do not require any other protection.

Are you already following us on Instagram ? You should watch a useful video on painting kitchen cabinets, it can be found in the Blog posts. Always read the instructions on the side of the paint can before starting a painting project and do a test painting. Useful tips for painting kitchen cabinets can be found in the Frenchic Blogs.

Q: Can I get a discount code for your online store?

A: There are not many sales at the Frenchic online store. However, you can get tailored benefits throughout the year when you join our email list. You can join the list at the bottom of our homepage. We also remember our customers who write product reviews with a small gift. If you have ordered products from our online store, you will receive a reminder and instructions on how to write a review in your email. Check your spam folder to see if there is a message there!

Q: Light marks on the paintwork - they appeared suddenly. What is the issue?

A: Generally, light marks indicate that either the surface hardening process is incomplete or has been disrupted. Usually, the marks will disappear on their own over time.

Bloom - white marks. As the descriptive term suggests, this causes a light clouding of the paint/coating. This creates an irregular, mottled, almost opalescent effect on the surface. Naturally, white marks are best seen on dark colours. It is not always possible to determine the exact cause of this, and sometimes it can be a combination of several factors, such as:
- If surface moisture caused by humid air condenses on the wet coating or paint during the application or drying and hardening period of the first layer.
- Temperature changes at any time during application or curing can also affect this.
- Moisture remaining between layers of paint.
Often, in dry air and sunlight, the marks can heal themselves over time. However, if necessary, you can also repair it by very lightly sanding the affected areas and applying a new full coat of paint.

It can also be a question of the light, chalky marks that appear when the surface is touched during the drying process of dark shades. The appearance of the marks will disappear at the latest when the hardening process has finished, within about three weeks if the paint has been used according to the instructions. The marks can be removed by wiping with a damp cloth (not wet). The appearance of the marks will disappear immediately if you treat the surface with a Finishing Coating or wax.

So there's no need to worry, as long as you can wait. The problem will go away on its own once the paint has had time to dry and harden sufficiently.

Q: Where can I find more information about the Frenchic Paint series?

A: Join the domestic FB group Frenchic Paint Finland or contact your nearest Frenchic dealer .

You can find all the ingredients of paints on the side of the paint cans,

We don't add any secret ingredients to our products.

.

"We're not afraid to tell you what's in our paint, in fact,

we proudly display our ingredients on each and every tin!"

Test winner paint series Frenchic.

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