Painting behind a log burner or fireplace requires a specialist coating, as you will need a finish that can withstand the high temperatures. Here are some top tips with the right product to ensure walls stay fresh.
Playing with Fire and a Hairdryer for Acrylic Pouring
Did you see the original ‘flames’ painting I did on a vinyl record? It was such a long time ago now. In this video, I am going to try to recreate something similar on a canvas but using a hair dryer to move the paints – disaster in the making?
Recipe:
All paints were mixed 2 parts paint, 1 part Floetrol and water as necessary. No oil in the black, minimal oil in the other colors.
Well, that was fun. I had no idea how the hairdryer was going to work out until I tried it. It really didn’t do that well. Low was too low and high was too high. It blew the paint too much and I didn’t have enough control. Using a straw was much better but by the time the hairdryer had done its thing, it was a bit too late to get the look I was after.
This canvas lives to be poured on another day. As usual, check out the slideshow below for more images of this painting, and thanks so much for watching.
After being told in high school that she was so bad at art that she should switch to another subject, Deby didn’t paint again for 35 years. Then a stroke released a new wave of creativity and she began exploring with dot painting, abstract and eventually acrylic pouring, and at last the joy of working with color returned. You don’t need ‘talent’ to be an acrylic pouring artist – just enthusiasm, some basic instruction, and a willingness to try, fail and try again. Paint along with her and learn from her many mistakes, and you’ll soon make great art together.
Why aren’t regular paint systems suitable?
When in use, woodburners can raise the temperature of nearby walls, mantles and surrounds to extreme temperatures. This poses problems for regular paint systems. From an aesthetic point of view, cracking, peeling and flaking and discolouration of surfaces is common. From a safety point of view, paints that aren’t designed for painting a fireplace are often combustible.
Photo courtesy of Earthborn. Colour, Donkey Ride.
Earthborn Claypaint
If you have brick or plaster behind your wood burning stove, you may be wondering which type of paint to use. Earthborn Claypaint has a high clay content and is free from acrylics and oils. It can be used to paint bare brick and new plaster, including lime plaster, along with previously painted areas. Plus, it’s certified with a Class ‘0’ reaction to fire rating. This means it can withstand very high temperatures (up to 80°C) without affecting the paint. Its ultra flat matt finish also complements the soft glow of a fire, adding to the cosy feel of the space.
If you’re thinking of painting around your fireplace, Spring, Summer or Autumn are the best times of year to do this job.
Claypaint Sample (Ready Mixed)
Photo courtesy of Earthborn. Colour, Straw.
Surface preparation
To achieve the best results, ensure the surfaces to be painted are sound, clean, dry and dust-free. Remember to work in a well-ventilated area.
1. Clean surfaces thoroughly
Remove dirt, grease and any other surface contamination that could affect adhesion. Get rid of any dirt or soot using a vacuum and use a stiff wire brush to remove dirt from the crevices in brick work.
2. Protect the log burner
Cover your stove in plastic to make sure it is protected from any paint splashes.
3. Sanding surfaces
It is good practice to key the surface while wet using waterproof abrasive paper or pads if the surface is new or you are applying a water-based finish on top of solvent-based or glossy paint, or on a very hard and impermeable surface.
4. Surface defects
Fill surface defects with an appropriate filler. Depending on the paint you’re using you may need to spot prime any filled areas. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Stabilise the surface
Previous coatings that are blistering or unstable should be removed and a suitable stabilising or primer-sealer product used if necessary. Use Earthborn Isolating primer for dry stains and use two coats for heavy staining. Do not use on lime plaster/render as this can inhibit the breathable properties of the render.
6. Priming and painting
Earthborn recommends diluting the first coat of Claypaint with 20% water which is really important for more porous surfaces. You can then apply your second coat of Claypaint and you’re good to go!
