Posted by Frenchic Admin
CHOOSE THE RIGHT PAINT FOR THE RIGHT SURFACE
Frenchic paint selection guide
Sometimes it can be difficult to choose a paint range, and you may wonder whether the shade and range you've chosen are right for your project.
Since we also offer several ranges, we want to help you find the right one for your project.
In this guide, we'll introduce you to the most common options to make your choice easier.
It's that easy:
In brief
- Only the Al Fresco range is suitable for outdoor furniture.
- All Frenchic ranges are suitable for interior surfaces and furniture.
- All Frenchic paint ranges are resistant to splashes, washing and wiping.
- Waxes and Finishing Coats are suitable for untreated and painted wood.
- Waxes are for interior surfaces only.
- Finishing coats are also suitable for outdoor use, for example to protect the paint on exterior doors and garden furniture.
Consider at least the following when choosing a paint range
- Frenchic paint ranges have different sheen levels: satin, matte or ultra-matte
- Different shades per range
- Different tin sizes per range: 250 ml, 500 ml, 750 ml or 2.5 l
We also recommend reading FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Frenchic ranges, tin size, coverage and sheen
Al Fresco
Tin sizes: 250 ml, 750 ml
Coverage: 250 ml approx. 4 m², 750 ml approx. 13 m²
Sheen: matte
Use: outdoors and indoors
Lazy Range - discontinued range
Tin sizes: 250 ml, 750 ml
Coverage: 250 ml approx. 4 m², 750 ml approx. 13 m²
Sheen: matte
Use: indoors
Trim Paint
Tin size: 500 ml
Coverage: approx. 7 m²
Sheen: satin
Use: indoors
Wall paint
Tin size: 2.5 l
Coverage: approx. 35 m²
Sheen: ultra-matte
Use: indoors
Finishing Coat
Tin size: 500 ml
Coverage: approx. 7.5 m²
Sheen: glossy
Use: indoors and outdoors
Tuff Top Coat
Tin size: 500 ml
Coverage: approx. 7.5 m²
Sheen: matte
Use: indoors and outdoors
Waxes
Tin size: 500 ml
Coverage: approx. 10 m²
Sheen: satin
Use: indoors
Frensheen metallic pigment
Tin size: 150 ml
Coverage: approx. 1.5 m²
Finish: metallic effect
Use: indoors and outdoors
What does coverage mean in practice?
The manufacturer states the coverage for one coat on a smooth, neutral-colored surface.
In practice, coverage varies depending on the project and the painting technique chosen: porous, uneven, or dark surfaces being painted a lighter color usually need several coats, and paint consumption differs from the norm.
Example: 2-3 x 750ml tins of Frenchic paint are usually enough to paint the cabinet doors in a typical family kitchen.
With one small 250ml tin, you can paint a couple of bedside tables or 2-3 chairs, one interior door or a small chest of drawers.
Which paint for which surface? How to choose the right Frenchic range for different materials
Want to paint your kitchen cabinets, a laminate surface, tiles or even a metal cooker hood? This guide quickly shows you which Frenchic paint range is suitable for each material. The right range and the right preparation deliver a durable, beautiful finish.
Overview of paintable surfaces and suitable Frenchic paint ranges:
Ceramic tile
Recommendation: Al Fresco and wall paint, topcoats
Important: Not for floor tiles or areas exposed to standing water
Wood surfaces, wooden furniture, boards and trim indoors
Recommendation: All Frenchic paint ranges, waxes and topcoats
Important: Follow the painting instructions for wood surfaces. Only Al Fresco is suitable for outdoor furniture.
Metal and radiators
Recommendation: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, topcoats, Metallics
Important: Does not contain toxic rust inhibitors
MDF
Recommendation: All Frenchic paint ranges and topcoats
Important: Seal the clean MDF surface with a topcoat before painting.
Laminate and plastic
Recommendation: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen
Important: Thorough cleaning and sanding are essential
Concrete
Recommendation: Concrete floors: wall paint. Concrete surfaces: Frenshimmer, plus topcoats
Important: Make sure the surface is dry and dust-free
Glass
Recommendation: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen
Important: Also suitable for decorative painting; can be removed with a blade
Fabric
Recommendation: Not recommended
Important: Read more fabric painting tips
Leather
Recommendation: Not recommended
Important: Read more leather painting tips
Cork
Recommendation: Not recommended for floors
Important: Cork flooring is usually treated with wax
Can you paint ceramic tiles?
Yes, you can paint wall tiles with the Frenchic Al Fresco or wall paint range. Painting floor tiles or areas exposed to standing water is not recommended. Thorough cleaning and degreasing are essential for success.
Read about painting ceramic tiles.
Which paint is best for wooden furniture?
All Frenchic ranges are suitable for wood surfaces.
Instructions for painting wooden furniture.
How do you paint a metal surface or radiator?
Metal can be painted with Lazy Range, Al Fresco and Trim Paint ranges. Frenchic paints do not contain toxic rust inhibitors, so the surface should be cleaned and any rust removed before painting. You can use Topcoat as a primer.
Instructions for painting a radiator and a potbelly stove.
Can you paint MDF?
Yes. MDF is ideal for painting. Clean, porous MDF should be sealed with Topcoat before painting.
Can you paint furniture with a laminate surface or a plastic surface?
Yes, provided the surface is thoroughly cleaned and scuffed. Laminate can be painted with all Frenchic ranges.
Instructions for painting laminate surfaces.
Instructions for painting IKEA furniture
Painting concrete floors and surfaces
Wall paint range is suitable for concrete floors. On concrete surfaces, Frenshimmer creates a beautiful, textured finish. Topcoat increases durability.
Can you paint glass?
Yes, all paint ranges are suitable for painting indoor glass surfaces, such as glass doors on furniture or cabinets. The paint can be removed with a blade.
What paint should you use for different projects? Frenchic guide to home surfaces
This list covers the most common and frequently asked-about painting projects.
Wood floor indoors
Suitable ranges: wall paint + Topcoats
The manufacturer has officially tested the wall paints and approved them for painting wood floors. Suitable for wood, concrete, and most laminate floors when used as directed. Wear may require maintenance; pets and sand wear down the surface.
Wood floor painting instructions.
Outdoor terrace floor
Not recommended in Finland.
Interior brick wall
Suitable ranges: wall paint, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, Lazy Range, Frenchic waxes, Topcoats
Suitable for indoor brick surfaces.
Dust binding and sealing a brick wall
Suitable products: Topcoats, matte or glossy
Binds dust and protects the surface.
Tile floor
Not recommended.
Interior ceiling and panel ceiling
Suitable ranges: wall paint, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, Lazy Range, Frenchic waxes, Topcoats
Consider the sheen level and tin size.
Panel ceiling painting instructions.
Interior walls
Suitable ranges: primarily wall paint
Follow the wall painting instructions.
Interior log wall
Suitable ranges: breathable wall paint, Frenchic natural waxes
When thinned, the wood grain remains beautifully visible.
Accent walls and colour block areas
Suitable ranges: wall paint primarily, Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + finishing coats
Consider the different sheen levels of the ranges.
About painting an accent wall.
Interior doors and frames
Suitable ranges: Trim Paint, Lazy Range, Al Fresco, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + finishing coats
Trim Paint withstands heavy wear.
Interior stairs and railings
Suitable ranges: Trim Paint, Lazy Range, Al Fresco, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + finishing coats
Instructions for painting stairs.
Interior window frames
Suitable ranges: Trim Paint, Al Fresco, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + finishing coats
Be aware of temperature fluctuations.
Exterior door
Suitable range: Al Fresco + finishing coats, Metallics, Frensheen, Frenshimmer
Designed for indoor and outdoor use.
Instructions for painting an exterior door.
Video on painting an exterior door.
Indoor furniture
Suitable ranges: all Frenchic ranges, waxes and finishing coats
Outdoor furniture
Suitable range: Al Fresco paint range + finishing coats, Metallics, Frensheen, Frenshimmer
Guide to painting garden furniture
Dining table
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, Frenshimmer, Metallics, Frensheen + finishing coats
Recommendation: add Tuff Top Coat to the tabletop.
Kitchen cabinet doors
Suitable ranges: Al Fresco, Lazy Range, Trim Paint, Frenshimmer, Metallics, Frensheen + finishing coats
Guide to painting kitchen cabinets.
Video on painting kitchen cabinets.
Kitchen countertops
Not recommended.
Does not withstand cutting, hot dishes, or heavy wear.
Light fixture
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + finishing coats
Observe electrical safety.
Wood-burning stove
Suitable ranges: Trim Paint, Al Fresco, Metallics
Withstands approximately 70–80 °C.
How to paint a radiator and a wood-burning stove
Water-filled radiator
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Metallics
Refrigerator, plastic or metal surface
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + finishing coats
Bookcase
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Metallics, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + Frenchic waxes and Finishing Coats
Bed
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + Frenchic waxes and Finishing Coats
Small indoor items
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen + Frenchic waxes and Finishing Coats
Suitability of Frenchic ranges for different spaces
A space that gets cold in winter, e.g. a porch, hallway, summer cottage, boat, caravan or motorhome, playhouse, or shed
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Frenchic waxes, Finishing Coats
Notes: All Frenchic ranges are suitable for cold winter spaces.
Read about Henriikka's motorhome makeover.
Kitchen
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Frenchic waxes, Finishing Coats
Notes: Resistant to wear and wiping.
Bedroom
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Frenchic waxes, Finishing Coats
Notes: All ranges are well suited to dry indoor spaces.
Hallway
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Frenchic waxes, Finishing Coats
Notes: Durable and wipeable.
Dry toilet
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Frenchic waxes, Finishing Coats
Notes: Not for constant moisture; all ranges are suitable.
Bathroom
Suitable ranges: Al Fresco, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Finishing Coats
Notes: Not for areas with standing water or tiled floors.
Guide and tips for painting a bathroom and toilet.
Sauna
Not recommended.
Children's room
Suitable ranges: Lazy Range, Al Fresco, Trim Paint, wall paint, Frenshimmer, Frensheen, Frenchic waxes, Finishing Coats
Notes: Safe, low-emission options.
Read more about painting a children's room.
Painting with Frenchic paints is quite simple:
- Wash the surfaces clean
- Roughen the surface and wipe away the dust
- Apply at least two coats of thoroughly mixed paint to a dry, clean surface
- Follow the drying times for the paint range
- That's it!
Paint only clean, sound, and dry surfaces
Preparing the surface to be painted - watch the video.
1. Check the surface
What to do: Make sure the surface is sound, dry, and suitable for painting
Why: Paint does not repair structural damage
2. Clean thoroughly
What to do: Remove grease, dust, dirt, and old residue
Why: A clean surface ensures good adhesion
3. Sand or roughen
What to do: Lightly roughen the surface or sand it thoroughly
Why: Improves paint adhesion and durability
4. Remove sanding dust
What to do: Wipe the surface clean again
Why: Dust affects the final result
5. Paint a dry, clean surface
What to do: Paint at least two coats with thoroughly mixed paint
Why: Moisture weakens adhesion. Poorly mixed paint reduces coverage and durability.
Especially surfaces subject to heavy wear
Chair seats, tabletops, stairs and countertops always need to be thoroughly scuffed.
The rule of thumb is simple: the more wear a surface will get, the more carefully it needs to be prepared.
Don’t believe the myth that “no prep is needed”
Light sanding or scuffing the surfaces isn’t a pointless step. It’s a small and easy task that determines whether the paint finish stays beautiful for years or just months. All paints benefit from careful preparation.
Good preparation is like invisible insurance for a beautiful result.
If you’d like to see what others have painted, join our FB group, Frenchic Paint Finland.
Many of our customers have painted other surfaces that we don’t officially recommend. Some projects work out, others don’t. Painting is done at your own risk, with awareness of the official instructions and recommendations.
Choose accessories for your project and explore the photo gallery
You’ll find the best painting guides on the Frenchic website:
- Explore the Frenchic range
- All painting guides and articles
- Get inspired by Frenchic projects - photo gallery
- Guide to painting kitchen cabinets
- Guide to painting garden furniture
- Guide to painting laminate furniture
- Guide to painting tile surfaces
- Furniture painting guide - a beginner’s guide
Award-winning quality and the Queen’s Award
Frenchic Paint has received the prestigious British Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
This award is given to only a select few innovative companies. Other recipients of the same award include:
- Dyson
- Jaguar
- Land Rover
This award reflects the exceptional quality and innovation of Frenchic products. Over the years, Frenchic paints have received several other prestigious awards, which you can read more about on our website here.
No mass production. Nothing like everyone else’s. Just your ideas and a little creative color courage ❤
