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Matte paint is a diluted water-based paint applied in a thin coat. This type of paint is used to protect and prevent peeling of the new plaster layer on the wall. Begin by preparing the paint mixture in the right proportion of paint and water. Apply the paint evenly across the wall's surface and wait for it to dry. Afterward, you can apply an additional top coat without worrying about wrinkles or cracks in the paint.
Steps
Prepare the Matte Paint Mixture
Buy water-based paint without vinyl. You can make your own matte paint by purchasing a water-based paint labeled "emulsion," as this type is water-based. Ensure that the paint contains only acrylic and is free from vinyl. Water-based paints can be found at hardware stores or online.
- Opt for a budget-friendly, generic paint as you will dilute it with water anyway.
Choose a color that matches the top coat paint. This way, you only need to apply one additional layer, as both coats will already be the same color. Look through the color chart to select a suitable shade.
- For example, if the top coat is white, you should choose white water-based paint. Try to find the closest shade of white that matches the top coat.
- It's better to buy the top coat and water-based paint from the same brand, as this will make it easier to find a matching color.
Mix the paint and water in a 50/50 ratio. Pour one part paint and one part water into a plastic bucket. Use a tool to stir the paint and water thoroughly. Matte paint needs to be liquid in consistency.
- A 50/50 ratio ensures the paint is thin enough to soak into and seal the plaster.
- Mix the paint just before you begin the process, as waiting too long may cause the mixture to separate.
Buy pre-mixed matte paint at hardware stores. If you don’t want to mix it yourself, you can purchase pre-mixed paint. Just make sure it’s water-based and matches the top coat color.
- You can also buy plaster paint, which is a specialized type of paint for coating plaster and helps the matte layer dry faster.
- If you're unsure about which brand to choose, ask the sales associate for advice.
Apply the Matte Coat
Check to ensure the plaster is fully dry. You should not apply the matte paint over wet plaster, as this can damage the wall. Typically, plaster takes about 1 to 2 days to dry. Gently touch the plaster to see if the surface is dry yet.
Lay down a protective drop cloth or floor covering. This process can get messy, as matte paint is very wet and thin. Spread a drop cloth or specialized floor protector, then secure it with tape to protect the floor.
- Move furniture out of the room to avoid paint splatters. You can also cover furniture with a drop cloth for extra protection.
- Wear clothes that you're okay with getting paint on, such as an old shirt and jeans.
Dip the roller into the paint. Pour the mixed paint into a tray, dip the roller’s end into the paint, and roll it evenly to absorb the right amount of paint.
- The roller should not be soaking wet. You need to apply an even and adequate amount of paint to the wall.
Apply a smooth, even matte coat to the wall. Roll the paint smoothly and consistently on the wall. Start from the lower corner of the wall and roll upwards towards the ceiling.
- If any areas are missed, you can go back and apply additional paint. The plastered wall needs to be fully covered with a consistent layer of paint.
- Avoid going over the same area repeatedly—just roll enough to cover the section.
Use a small brush to paint the room's corners. A small brush is useful for any spot the roller can't reach. Use it to paint hard-to-reach areas, such as the corners or just above the baseboards.
Apply the Top Coat
Allow the matte paint layer to dry overnight. This type of paint requires ample time to dry properly. Refrain from touching the painted surface for 24 hours, or simply leave it overnight to dry. Make sure to open the windows to speed up the drying process.
- You can also turn on a fan to help the paint dry faster. Note: the fan should circulate air throughout the room and not focus on a single spot, as this can lead to uneven drying.
- If you plan to open the windows, check the weather forecast to ensure there is no rain or excessive humidity outside.
Check if the paint has dried. Touch the surface to check if it has fully dried before applying another layer. The paint should be completely dry and should not feel tacky when touched.
Apply the top coat. Once the plaster paint layer has dried, apply two additional coats of the top paint color of your choice. You will need a clean paint tray and roller. Use the roller to apply the top coat over the matte layer in an upward motion. For areas that are harder to reach, use a small brush, such as corners or just above baseboards.
- Let the first coat dry overnight, then proceed with the second coat.
- Depending on the shade, you might want to apply a third coat. Be sure to let the second coat dry overnight before applying the third layer.
Things You Will Need
- Water-based paint
- Water
- Bucket
- Drop cloth or floor protection mat
- Paint roller with an extendable handle
- Paintbrush
- Fan
