Fine Paints of Europe Process and Tips (Brushing/Rolling)

Overview

I wrote this process to share what I have learned recently when trying to achieve the perfect finish using Fine Paints of Europe Hollandlac Brilliant 98 paint (FPOE for short). Typically, I would spray this paint, but that's a very different process. This information was difficult to come by, and so my hope is to share what I have learned and save some headaches for others.

Supplies Needed

1. FPOE products only: mineral spirits, primer, paint, brushing putty
2. Regular mineral spirits for cleaning only
3. Tack cloths, microfiber towels, Tyvek suits
4. Crock pot and digital food thermometer
5. Paint strainers, mixing cups, brushes, and foam rollers
6. Shop light, painter's tape, and roofing underlayment

Step 1: Preparing the furniture

1. Remove hardware and clean surfaces with TSP
2. De-gloss if needed, then fill dents/cracks and sand with 220 grit
3. Vacuum thoroughly and wipe down with mineral spirits
4. Tack until cloth no longer picks up residue

Step 2: Apply Brushing Putty (optional)

1. Thin 5% with FPOE mineral spirits and apply before priming
2. Sand smooth, then apply Bondo if needed and sand again

Step 3: Priming

1. Thin primer 10% with only FPOE mineral spirits
2. Strain, mix, warm paint, then apply two primer coats
3. Sand between coats and re-prime burn-throughs

Step 4: Booth prep for finish coats

1. Vacuum booth and line floor with roofing underlayment
2. Run HEPA filtration, then turn off and wet floor before painting
3. Bring all tools/supplies in to reduce booth traffic

Step 5: Finish coats

1. Paint when material temperature is between 80 and 110 degrees
2. Tack before painting and keep paint warm/strained
3. Work in small sections with a wet edge
4. Use side light to catch debris and missed spots

Step 6: Booth cleaning

1. Remove contents and floor coverings
2. Clean walls/floor, seal booth, and run HEPA filter

Troubleshooting

Contaminated paint: Water in Brilliant 98 cannot be used. Avoid introducing any water from the crock pot process.

Inevitable debris: If heavy debris appears, stop, wipe the area with mineral spirits and microfiber towel, identify source, and repaint.

Video: Temporary paint booth build