Painting MDF cupboard

[planemad]

Hi

I have constructed an MDF cupboard in my small bedroom and I have now come to the stage where I need to paint it.

I would like the finish to be matt magnolia emulsion.

Do I need to use a primer (which one is best)? and then do a few coats of magnolia.

Or

Shall I sand it down lightly then do a watered down coat of magnolia then a few final coats.

Many Thanks

 

[Zampa]

You can get MDF primer or use thinned out undercoat..just rub down lightly between coats to remove any furring..

I wouldnt use emulsion as a finish, it marks very easy

 

[planemad]

Thanks for the advice.

What finish would you use? I would like minimal brush marks?

Many Thanks

 

[Zampa]

I would go for water based eggshell maybe..or satin, its more wipeable and durable than matt emulsion.

If you really want a matt finish then you can get flat oil based paint..or give the emusion a few coats of water based matt varnish or glaze.

As for minimal brush marks...use a short pile 4 inch roller...and use oil based paint...water based dries very quickly, thus not allowing the paint enough time to flow out