General / Product

What is SeaPaint and how is it different from chalk or mineral paint?
SeaPaint is a low-odor, water-based furniture paint designed for smooth, durable indoor finishes. Compared to chalk/mineral paints, it typically dries faster, levels smoother (fewer brush marks), and pairs with a non-yellowing water-based sealer instead of wax that has to be worked in and buffed.

Is SeaPaint low-odor and low-VOC? Is it safe to use indoors around kids/pets?
Yes. SeaPaint is formulated for low odor, indoor use. As with any paint, use normal ventilation and keep curious hands/paws off the piece until it’s fully dry/cured.

Do I need primer with SeaPaint? When would I ever need it?
Usually no primer. Clean → alcohol de-gloss → thin coats. Use a bonding or stain-blocking primer only for ultra-slick factory finishes, heavy tannin bleed (red woods/oak/mahogany), or knotty resin spots. We offer a primer called Wipeout.

Do I need to sand before using SeaPaint?
Generally no sanding for sound finishes. A quick alcohol de-gloss wipe is the recommended prep; optional hand scuff if you prefer.

What finishes (sheens) can I get with SeaPaint?
Unsealed, it reads matte. Top with Matte Sealer (modern, camouflages flaws) or Satin Sealer (soft sheen).

Do I have to use a sealer or wax with SeaPaint? Which one?
For furniture and high-touch items, seal with the SeaPaint water-based Matte or Satin sealer (2 light coats). Wax is optional and less durable around moisture/grease. For items that are wall decor, for example, those can often be left unnsealed.

How long does SeaPaint take to dry vs fully cure?
Typical thin-coat timeline: touch-dry 3 min, recoat 13 min, ready to seal in 30 minutes or less, light use 24 hrs, full cure ~3 days. (latex paint is typically 30 day cure time for comparison)

Can SeaPaint be used outdoors? On front doors?
SeaPaint is optimized for indoor projects. For covered doors and decor, apply per directions and protect from standing water/UV; expect more maintenance outdoors. Outdoor use is possible, with a floor grade sealer. We offer one of those as well, called SeaGlass.

Is SeaPaint food-safe once cured (e.g., cutting boards, dining tables)?
For dining tables, paint + water-based sealer is fine (avoid hot pots/standing water during cure). Not for cutting surfaces. Use a food-safe finish there.

What colors does SeaPaint come in? Can I custom mix colors?
A curated palette of neutrals, teals, and coastal hues. Yes, you can custom-mix; record your ratios and test a swatch before committing. Something to keep in mind: colors dry a different color compared to when the paint is still damp. Sealer will darken the color once applied.

Will SeaPaint yellow over time on whites or light colors?
SeaPaint colors will not “amber” like some oil products. Use the non-yellowing water-based sealer in thin coats to keep whites bright. We offer SeaGlass as a sealer.

Surfaces & Prep

Will SeaPaint stick to laminate, melamine, or IKEA furniture without sanding?
Yes. Degrease → alcohol de-gloss → thin coats. Seal for durability. Test a small spot if the finish is unusually slick. For extra stick, add a thin coat of SeaGlass before painting.

Can I paint over varnish or polyurethane without stripping?
Yes, if the coating is sound (no flaking). Clean, alcohol de-gloss, then paint thin. Spot-prime only if you see bleeds.

Can I use SeaPaint on MDF, veneer, or particleboard?
Yes. Clean, de-gloss, paint thin; avoid soaking edges. Seal to protect.

Does SeaPaint work on metal, glass, or tile?
Yes, with thorough de-gloss (alcohol until squeaky-clean). For heavy-use tile/metal, a bonding undercoat may help. You can use Seaglass for extra stick. Seal and allow full cure.

How do I prep raw wood vs previously painted pieces?
Raw wood: remove dust, de-gloss, paint. Previously painted: clean, de-gloss, ensure old paint is sound (no peeling).

How do I deal with tannin bleed-through on oak/mahogany/cherry?
If pink/yellow staining shows after coat 1–2, spot-prime those areas with a stain-blocking primer, then continue color + sealer.

Can I paint kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities with SeaPaint?
Yes,great for low-odor indoor work. Degrease thoroughly, alcohol de-gloss, 2–3 thin coats, 2 thin sealer coats. Let dry.

What’s the best way to clean/degrease before painting?
Warm soapy water or a TSP substitute + microfiber, rinse, dry. Then alcohol de-gloss wipe.

Do I need a bonding primer on ultra-slick finishes?
Only if a test patch shows beading/slip after alcohol de-gloss. Otherwise, proceed without.

Application & Tools

What brush and roller give the smoothest, brush-mark-free finish with SeaPaint?
A high-quality synthetic brush (2–2.5") for edges and a 4–6" high-density foam or fine microfiber roller for flats.

How many coats do I need? How long between coats?
Usually 1-2 thin coats,13 min between coats at room temp.

What’s the ideal room temperature/humidity for painting?
About 65–75°F (18–24°C) with moderate humidity and light airflow.

How do I avoid streaks, drag, or roller texture?
Use thin coats, don’t over-brush half-dry paint, keep a wet edge, and switch to a finer foam/microfiber roller if you see texture. Very soft brushes work best.

How do I do a color wash, glaze, or stain-like effect with SeaPaint?

• Wash: thin paint with water (~1:1), brush on, wipe back.

• Glaze: tint clear glaze, apply, blend, feather.

• Stain effect: very thin coats brushed on with damp, soft bristled brush.

Can I distress or layer SeaPaint for a rustic look?
Yes.light scuffing after cure for wear edges; layer colors and seal. Use 220 san paper and a palm sander or our weathering sponges for the rustic or coastal weathered finishes.

Sealing & Durability

Which sealer should I use—matte or satin—and how many coats?
Matte for modern, low-sheen; Satin for a soft sheen. Apply 2 light coats, 30 minutes apart.

How soon after painting can I seal?
Typically less than an hour after the final color coat (ensure it feels dry/cool, not tacky).

How long before I can place items on the surface?
Light use after 24 hours; avoid heavy items/stacking until after the 3-day cure.

How do I care for and clean SeaPaint finishes long-term?
Wipe with mild soap + soft cloth. Avoid abrasives and harsh solvents.

Will the sealer yellow my whites?
Use the non-yellowing, water-based sealer in thin coats, it’s designed to keep whites bright.

Coverage & Sizing

How far does a 12oz of SeaPaint go?
Approx. (two thin coats): 12oz = 139sq ft  

Safety & Storage

How should I store leftover SeaPaint and sealer?
Tightly sealed, room-temperature, away from freezing/heat. Wipe rims before closing to prevent air leaks.

What’s the shelf life? Can I revive thickened paint?
Best used within 12–24 months if stored well. If thick, stir gently; a small water addition can help.

Are there any materials or conditions I should avoid?
Avoid oil/solvent contamination, extreme heat/cold, and standing water during cure. For plastics/rubbery surfaces, test first.

Can I use SeaPaint while pregnant or scent-sensitive?
SeaPaint is low odor; many pregnant/scent-sensitive users prefer it. That said, always ventilate, wear gloves if needed, and consult your provider for personal guidance.