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MILK PAINT FINISH INFORMATION


Oct 13, 2003: - It may seem strange to us today, but not that very long ago we couldn't run down to the corner hardware store and pick out a can of paint. That's right, we used to make it ourselves. For several hundred years now it has been called MILK PAINT. And does in fact have lime and milk protein as a base.

MILK PAINT is a deep rich authentic color found on existing antique furniture. It is mixed in small batches from a powder and uses true earth pigments. This paint was also very popular on Shaker and Colonial furniture. The formula itself dates back to Ancient Egypt and relatively more modern frescos. And like the paints used hundreds of years ago...the color will not fade. Modern paints just can not compare.

The paint is composed of milk protein, lime, clay and earth pigments such as ochre, umber, iron oxide, lampblack, etc. It is completely environment save and non toxic so it is an excellent finish to use on doll furniture and toys.

It is a truly wonderful finish and I am looking forward to being able to provide more colors over time. I first became interested in researching this formula after receiving many requests from customers wanting 'color' on their items instead of the regular stains. This presented a problem as modern paints just don't do well. I tried most everything, but a Victorian reproduction piece painted with modern paints, just doesn't look right. Another problem with using paint is that Victorian pieces are fairly intricate items. Paint will glob up in all the little cut outs. By experimenting with the MILK PAINT, I am able to mix it properly to achieve more of a stain look than a modern paint look, and add color to a piece. It is absolutely fantastic! I think everyone can tell that I am pretty excited about the possibilities. Another aspect I am finding is that a more Antique look is created. The very nature of Victorian pieces creates lots of little nooks and crannies. As the Milk Paint is applied it will concentrate more and less here and there, giving the finished piece an interesting and unique look.

As of this writing I am offering three colors. Marigold Yellow , Bayberry Green, and Buttermilk Can I do a red and a blue...you bet. But...I am having a hard time seeing them on Victorian pieces? Perhaps down the road, I will see how requests come in. I am currently working on a warm 'Pumpkin'. Any of the Mahogany doll furniture pieces I have listed on this web site can be finished in these colors. The pictures I have included here as examples are of finished products as I send them out. The colors are actually richer than I am able to take pictures of.



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NOW AVAILABLE IN FOUR M I L K PAINT COLORS

Nov 03: - Current Milk Paint colors offered are: Bayberry Green, Marigold Yellow, Soldier Blue, and Barn Red.

MILK PAINT COLORS EXAMPLE PICTURES


[Bayberry Green] [Marigold Yellow] [Soldier Blue] [Barn Red]


DOLL FURNITURE PICTURES:
Example Detail Picture..... BUTTERMILK

Example Detail Picture..... MARIGORD YELLOW

Example Detail Picture..... BAYBERRY GREEN




I can't stress enough how true the colors are compared to the paints and stains that we are used to seeing today. When I was doing my experimenting, I kept calling my wife out to look. The Marigold Yellow...looks like Marigold yellow. I know that sounds silly, but the only way I can compare it is that modern paints have so many chemicals in them that the modern colors look....plastic-like compared to using lime and true earth pigments.. ..ok...enough of my ramblings.


HOW IS IT USED


What I do is first mix a small amount from a dried powder, and hand beat the mixture to a desired constancy (yes it does get frothy for a while). I then apply a thin, almost runny coat to the piece and wipe it down. Then allow to dry and follow up with a thicker coat that is airbrushed. I them slightly distress the piece and do a little light sanding. The piece is finished with several coats of clear lacquer to seal the paint. When finished, the grain and character of the wood is still visible, the color true.

Most of the people that wander on in here are truly interested in the Victorian Period and furnishings. I am sure that the many 'purists' will enjoy seeing the colors. I think most of us remember the old colors on furniture that you just don't see anymore......now I know why. It is much easier and just a little bit less expensive (but not that much) to use the modern paints.

If you are interested in having your pieces finished in the MILK PAINT colors, just drop me a note along with the order and I will be happy to do it.. Any questions, please do email me......Tom


Marigold Yellow Milk Paint


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