
Painting over gloss paint with matt paint is possible, but it requires careful preparation to ensure a clean and consistent finish. Gloss paint has a shiny and slick surface that can make it difficult for new paint to adhere to it. To overcome this challenge, it is recommended to start by lightly sanding the gloss paint to create a rough surface for the new paint to grip onto. After sanding, it is crucial to clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, or grime that may interfere with the adhesion of the new paint. Once the surface is prepared, a suitable primer or undercoat can be applied, followed by the desired matt paint.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Possibility | It is possible to paint over gloss paint with matt paint. |
| Durability | Matt paint may not be durable on woodwork. |
| Adhesion | Matt paint does not adhere well to gloss paint. |
| Preparation | Lightly sand the gloss paint to dull the surface and clean it before applying matt paint. |
| Primer | Use a primer such as Super Grip Primer or an oil-based primer for better adhesion. |
| Number of Coats | Two coats of matt paint are usually required. |
| Paint Quality | Use high-quality matt paints from brands like Dulux, Leyland, Johnson's, or Wickes. |
| Paint Type | Avoid using emulsion paint on woodwork; opt for wood paint or eggshell/satin finish for better durability and ease of cleaning. |
| Safety | Wear rubber gloves and a face mask to protect against dust particles during the sanding process. |
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What You'll Learn

Matt paint will not adhere to gloss paint
When painting over gloss paint with matt paint, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure proper adhesion. If the glossy surface of the gloss paint is not removed, the matt paint may not stick properly and can slide around. Additionally, the type of primer used is important, as the wrong type of primer may not adhere to the gloss paint.
To paint over gloss paint with matt paint, the first step is to sand down the gloss paint to remove the glossy surface. This can be done by using sandpaper, such as 120-grit or 180-grit sandpaper, and sanding in circular motions until the surface is no longer slick and glossy. It is important to work the sandpaper into any corners or crevices to ensure that the glossy sheen is removed. After sanding, the surface should be cleaned to remove any dust, dirt, or grime that may have been created during the sanding process.
After the surface has been sanded and cleaned, a coat of primer can be applied. Primer will help the matt paint adhere to the surface and create a more even base for the paint. If the previous paint is oil-based, it is important to use an oil-based primer as well. The primer should be allowed to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Once the primer is dry, a coat of matt paint can be applied. It is recommended to use a quality matt paint from brands like Dulux, Leyland, or Wickes Master Range. Depending on the desired finish, multiple coats of matt paint may be required.
By following these steps, it is possible to successfully paint over gloss paint with matt paint and achieve a clean and consistent finish. However, it is important to note that this process may require a fair amount of time and special treatment.
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Sand the gloss paint to remove the sheen
Sanding the gloss paint to remove the sheen is a crucial step in preparing the surface for a new coat of paint. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Prepare the Workspace:
Clear the area you'll be working in by removing any furniture, decor, or obstacles. Cover the floor and any remaining items with plastic sheeting or drop cloths to protect them from paint drips and dust. Don't forget to put on safety gear, such as rubber gloves and a face mask, to avoid getting paint on your hands and inhaling dust particles.
Clean the Surface:
Before sanding, it's essential to clean the gloss paint surface to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. Use a gentle sponge, such as a cellulose sponge, and dip it into a mixture of warm water, dish soap, and white vinegar. Wipe the surface gently with circular motions, focusing on removing any stains or grime. Then, rinse the sponge and wipe the surface again with clean water to remove any soap residue. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding to sanding.
Sand the Gloss Paint:
Select the appropriate sandpaper grit for the job. It is recommended to use fine-grit sandpaper between 180 and 220-grit. Anything coarser may leave visible scratches on the surface. Work the sandpaper in circular motions over the entire surface, paying extra attention to corners and crevices to ensure the glossy sheen is removed. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or scrub too vigorously, as you only need to remove the sheen, not the paint itself. Continue sanding until the glossy finish is no longer visible, and the surface has a dull, matte appearance.
Clean the Sanded Surface:
Once you've finished sanding, use a tack cloth or a damp sponge to remove any paint dust or residue left on the surface. Again, work gently in circular motions to avoid damaging the paint. After wiping down the surface, allow it to dry completely.
Apply a Primer (Optional):
At this point, you may choose to apply a bonding primer to the sanded surface. This step is optional but can help your new paint adhere better and create a more consistent finish. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the primer, and allow it to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Remember to work cautiously and wear the appropriate protective gear throughout the process. With these steps, you can effectively sand the gloss paint to remove the sheen and prepare the surface for a new coat of paint.
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Clean the surface with sugar soap
Before you start using sugar soap, put on a pair of eye goggles, rubber gloves, and a protective face mask. Sugar soap contains skin-irritating ingredients, so extra caution is always advised.
Sugar soap is a powerful chemical cleaner used to wash walls before painting them. It is a granulated-looking powder that can also be found in liquid form. It is perfect for cleaning large wall areas, like entire rooms, basements, and bathrooms. It is also useful for removing grease, nicotine, old paint, and old wallpaper glue.
To clean a surface with sugar soap, start by placing a drop sheet under the wall you are cleaning to protect the floor from any splashes. Move or cover any furniture near the wall to prevent splashes or spills. Tape over electrical outlets and sockets to minimize the risk of damage. Dust the wall with a duster or small broom to remove any lingering dirt.
Next, get a bucket of warm water and dissolve the sugar soap in it. Use a brush or a cloth and soak it in the solution. Start wiping the wall, always being careful not to touch it with your bare hands. Clean your brush or cloth frequently and add more sugar soap solution as needed.
Finally, after cleaning the wall with the sugar soap solution, get a bucket of clean water and a new cloth, and repeat the process to remove the soap from the wall. Allow the wall to dry completely before applying paint.
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Apply an oil-based primer
Before applying an oil-based primer, ensure your project is clean and free of loose paint. If you suspect the presence of lead paint, stop and conduct a lead test. If the test result is positive, follow the necessary lead-paint protocols or consult a professional abatement company. This step is crucial before performing any sanding that could release lead dust into the air or your living space.
Once your project is confirmed safe, mix the oil-based primer well using a traditional wooden stir stick. Keep stirring until the pigment and oil are thoroughly combined. As you work, continue to mix the primer occasionally to prevent separation.
When applying the primer, use a high-quality paintbrush designed for oil-based products. Purdy and Wooster are two reputable brands that offer excellent paintbrushes. You can also try store-brand brushes from local hardware stores. Avoid using a sponge brush, as it won't provide the best results.
As you paint, use long, even brush strokes. Oil-based primers are stickier than latex primers, so avoid going back over areas that have been drying for more than a minute to prevent brush marks and a rough surface. If the primer is too thick and difficult to smooth, thin it slightly with mineral spirits. Start with a small amount, adding more as needed until you achieve a smoother consistency.
After applying the primer, let it dry completely. Depending on the product, it may require 24 hours of drying time before you apply the topcoat. The surface may still have minor imperfections, feeling slightly chalky or rough. If necessary, you can use a sanding sponge to smooth out the surface before proceeding with your chosen paint.
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Paint with matt paint
Painting over gloss paint with matt paint is possible, but it requires careful preparation. Firstly, it is important to determine whether the gloss paint is oil-based or latex. This can be done by taking a small chip of the paint and seeing if it snaps and breaks, which would indicate oil-based paint, or bends, which would suggest latex. Alternatively, applying a cotton swab with pure acetone to the paint will make it gummy and sticky if it is latex-based, and have no effect if it is oil-based.
If the paint is oil-based, an oil-based primer should be used, whereas a water-based primer is suitable for latex paint. The primer should be left to dry overnight before applying the matt paint. It is important to note that normal matt emulsion will not adhere properly to gloss paint, and the shine of the gloss may reappear over time.
Before applying the primer, the surface should be prepared to ensure the paint adheres properly. This involves lightly sanding the surface with 80-180 grit sandpaper to dull the shine and create a rough surface for the paint to stick to. It is important to sand evenly and reach all corners and crevices. After sanding, the surface should be cleaned with a damp sponge to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. Sugar soap can be used as a detergent to clean the surface, but it should be avoided if there are freshly painted walls nearby.
Once the surface is clean and dry, a coat of primer can be applied. Super Grip Primer is an adhesion-promoting primer that works well on smooth and shiny surfaces. After the primer has dried, the surface will be ready for painting with matt paint.
For painting wooden surfaces, it is important to use a paint that is suitable for wood, as emulsion will not be durable and will be difficult to keep clean. While completely matt wood paints are available, an eggshell or satin finish is recommended as it is easier to keep clean.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it requires a fair amount of time and special treatment to produce a clean and consistent finish.
First, lightly sand the gloss paint to remove the glossy surface that makes it difficult for paint to adhere to. Next, clean the surface with a damp sponge to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. Then, apply a coat of primer or oil-based undercoat. Once the primer or undercoat is dry, you can apply your matt paint.
If the gloss paint is oil-based, you will need to use an oil-based primer. If the gloss paint is not oil-based, you can use a water-based primer such as Dulux Super Grip or a grip primer such as Super Grip Primer.
If you don't want to use primer, you can lightly sand the gloss paint and then apply an oil-based undercoat or a white undercoat thinned with white spirit.











































