MDF getting a good finish

[malc]

How do you get a good uniform finish on MDF, the cut edges soak up paint like its going out of fashion and staining the face looks horrible as it shows up the particles.
Malc

[Dawie]

I know what you mean. I found it very much depends on the paint you use and it might even be different from MDF board to MDF board. I now found a paint that covers most MDF well. But it's a Dutch make called Decor-fin by a company named Talens. It is more expansive than other paints I have tried but I use less and it works well. I never stain MDF I only paint the whole object. I mainly use MDF for puzzles. Nearly forgeot, it can make a difference to if you try it on sanded or not sanded  MDF, sometimes I find there is some thin film of coating of something or other on the boards and then no paint will stick to it, after sanding it normally works a lot beter for me.
David.

[scrollgirl]

I have used a primer like "Kilz" on MDF before painting with good results.  I used this on all my See Creature eyeglass holders and not only does it make the paint adhere better, the color is more even and truer.  It seems if you paint acrylic directly on MDF the colors absorb so much into it that they are dull and washed out. 

I also have used this on larger items and it really works well.  I used a dollar store 4" foam roller and tray to apply it and you can sand it lightly before applying your color. 

I know what Dawie means with the shiny stuff on some MDF and I also recommend a light sanding. 

Hope this helps

Sheila

[Russ C]

Sanding and a good quality primer (Kilz) will help allot. I never stain MDF. 

[julief]

Ditto, I sand and prime with Kilz.  I usually only make childrens puzzles with mdf.

[GrayBeard]

I have done some small tables and cabinets of MDF and I sand, then sansing sealer, sand, primer and then oil base enamel (satin finish), then the EX paints decorative designs for heirloom wedding presents.
After decorating I spray with satin lacquer.

Works for us...

~~~GrayBeardd~~~

[Dawie]

Primer never thought of that might try that next time.
David.

[Marcellarius]

There are special mdf primer. in holland going by the brand Alabastine

http://www.alabastine.nl/mdf_2in1_grondverf.html

costs about $ 21,-- for 16 oz (500ml)

[Merlin]

I use PVA glue ( Elmer's to u guy's I think) Mixed to a thin slurry or evener thinner and paint that to the edges of MDF and leave it overnite to dry and then paint the usual way.
Don't remember where/who gave me the info but it sure as hell works for me.

***Merlin***

[scrollriffic]

Great infor you all. I never used mdf but might try it now that I know how to finish it. Thanks a bunch. Bobby

[Dawie]

Hi Marcellarius it's handy to have another Dutchy around, never thought of checking Albastine, use there other products sometimes. Thanks for the info.
David