mdf

[loltolhurst]

Ive bought some mdf for the first time ( diy novice ) and am doing some shelves and may have a go at a bedside cabinet with the left overs. It seems great as I wanted something cheap but looking now on the web Im concerned i need expensive primers etc to finish it. Do I really have to seal it etc or can i just bung the one coat matt white paint i cover everything with?! I like the shabby chic look so not concerned about perfect finish that will last for 10 years but do want it to last a little while.


thanks

[V8mate]

Got a mask to wear when you cut it? The dust is pretty grim news for your lungs.

[loltolhurst]

yes just read that as well am going off this mdf! they cut it in store so i should survive!

[northwest monkey]

You can just use a normal wood primer to seal it & then finish it however you like. If you're going gloss, you'll need to undercoat first after priming.

[Eggle]

Or mix PVA glue 50 / 50 with water and paint on. Let it dry and paint normally

[Mr Fenix]

Word of warning, wear a mask when working with MDF, as stated above its nasty ste to get caught in the lungs, even if the store cuts it you'll have lots of residual dust clinging to it and floating around as you prime and coat it.

I recommend a light sanding (180 - 220 grit) after the 1st coat of primer then apply a 2nd to even out the coverage and then finish in the colour of your choice.

[loltolhurst]

is it really that bad - am surprised theres no warnings in store when you buy it if so - you'd have thought there would be in these days of h&s

[xllifts]

loltolhurst said:

is it really that bad - am surprised theres no warnings in store when you buy it if so - you'd have thought there would be in these days of h&s

Its no worse than plasterboard that has now been deemed by Hampshire County Council as hazardous waste !!!

That said as with all material that causes dust a mask should be worn, but 'stuff' is these days over hyped with slopie shoulder syndrome.

[maser_spyder]

To get a half decent finish on cut MDF, prime/undercoat first, then rub down gently with 120 grit.

If you don't do this, you'll end up with a really, really nasty fuzzy finish (not shabby chic at all). It'll only take 10 minutes, but will make the end item look 10 times better.

Once sanded, give it a last coat of undercoat, and finish with your top coat.

Screwfix do 'proper' MDF primer for about £6 a tin, or the suggestions above will work too.

Hope that helps!