frequently asked questions
We know choosing the right finish, colour, or product for your project can raise a lot of questions. To make things easier, we’ve gathered answers to the queries we hear most often from our customers. Whether you’re looking for advice on paint application, guidance on wood finishes, details about ordering and delivery, or information about Mylands as a company, you’ll find it here.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, our team is always happy to help, just get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Click one of the links below to take you to the section you need.
WEBSITE & ORDERS
Ordering & Products
Ordering from Mylands is simple:
Pick Your Paint Type – Select which paint is best for your project. Not sure? There’s a handy guide on the product page.
Select Your Size – Choose amount of paint you need. Our paint calculator can help you if you’re not sure.
Add to Cart – Once you’ve made your selections, click “Add to Cart”
Checkout – Review your basket, then proceed to checkout to enter your delivery and payment details.
Place Your Order – Confirm your order, and you’ll receive an email with your order details and delivery information.
We strive to show our colours as true to life as possible. However, colours can appear differently depending on your screen colour settings, natural light (e.g, a bright south-facing room), and how the paint is applied (eg, colour drenching compared to a white ceiling).
We always recommend testing a sample before purchasing your full paint order to ensure you’re happy with the final colour in your space, as we are unable to accept returns on paints as each is made-to-order.
Mylands paints are made to order, once the paint has been tinted we will be unable to cancel your order. If the order has not been dispatched, we can always add items to it.
On the checkout page of the website there is a box to add discount codes or gift cards.
On mobile, this is in the ‘order Summary’ tab at the top of the checkout page.
Yes, we have an showroom located in West Norwood, London where you are able to shop our entire range and get paints made-to-order.
Our products are stocked in various other locations, please check our Stockist Map to find your nearest Mylands supplier.
If you are having problems checking out, then please contact our customer service team either by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or use the contact form here.
Payments & Security
We accept all major credit cards and debit cards.
You can safely pay using credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, Klarna or Mylands gift cards knowing your information is handled securely.
Mylands uses secure payment providers and encryption to keep your card details safe, fully meeting global payment security standards.
You can safely pay using credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, Klarna or Mylands gift cards knowing your information is handled securely.
Yes , Mylands now offers Klarna as a payment option, allowing you to shop now and pay later. Simply select Klarna at checkout and follow the instructions to choose your preferred payment plan.
Yes, you can add discount codes or gift card codes at the checkout stage.
Shipping & Delivery
For our full shipping details please refer to our Delivery & Returns page.
UK delivery times are:
1-2 days for samples pots & wood finishes
2-3 days for paint
Please allow up to 11 days for International orders.
For our full shipping details please refer to our Delivery & Returns page.
We currently do not offer express delivery.
We currently ship internationally to Germany, and Austria.
For online orders, you should receive an email with tracking information once your order has been dispatched from our warehouse, or you can login to your account to retrieve the tracking information.
For order placed over the phone, please contact customer service for tracking information.
Please contact our customer service team either by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or use the contact form here.
Please contact our customer service team either by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or use the contact form here.
Returns & Refunds
We do not accept returns on paint purchases as these are made-to-order.
All other items can be returned within 28 days of order, in their original packaging for a full refund. We cannot accept returns if the product has been opened. Cost of returns are at the customer’s expense.
If an item is faulty or damaged please contact our customer service team either by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or use the contact form here, for a refund or replacement.
Mylands paints are made to order, once the paint has been tinted we will not accept returns. For any other items, please get in touch with our customer service team either by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or use the contact form here with your order number and we will be happy to arrange your return.
Please note that there is a 15% admin fee applicable to returns.
Once we receive your return, please allow 3 working days for the funds to be returned to the payment method used to place the order.
If an item is faulty or damaged please contact our customer service team either by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or use the contact form here, for a refund or replacement.
Account & Support
No, you can checkout as a guest without creating an account. Simply add your items to the basket, enter your shipping and payment details, and place your order.
Creating an account is optional, but it can make future orders faster, allow you to track your order history, and save your details for next time.
Go to the login page of the website.
Click “Forgot your password?”
Enter the email address associated with your account and click Submit.
Check your email inbox for a password reset link. (Be sure to also check your spam/junk folder.)
Click the link and follow the instructions to create a new password.
Once complete, you can log in with your new password.
You can contact our customer service team either by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or using the contact form here.
Our customer service team is available Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
PAINT ADVICE
Using Mylands Paints
Using a Mylands primer is highly recommended for the best results, especially on bare, unpainted surfaces, stained areas, or rough, aged surfaces. Priming helps:
- Improve adhesion of the topcoat
- Ensure a smooth, even finish
- Enhance the durability and longevity of your paint
Mylands paints are designed for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. With the right preparation and tools, you can achieve beautiful results yourself.
Yes, Mylands provides a bespoke colour consultancy service, designed to bring clarity and cohesion to your interiors through expert design guidance. This is perfect if you want professional help with selecting the ideal palette and finishes for your space. Learn more here.
Drying times vary slightly depending on the product, finish, and room conditions (temperature, humidity, ventilation). As a guide:
Marble Matt Emulsions: Touch dry in 1–2 hours, recoat after 3-4 hours.- Plant-Based Multi-Surface Paints: Touch dry in 2-3 hours, recoat after 3-4 hours.
- Floor Paints: Touch dry in 2-3 hours, recoat after 3-4 hours. Allow at least 24 hours before light use.
For best results, always check the instructions on the tin and allow extra drying time in cooler or less ventilated spaces. For further information please refer to the product advice sheet.
Note: Although the paint may be dry to touch it takes a lot longer to cure, and as it cures the colour will change slightly. Once fully cured they will be left with the final colour, as with all paints this can take 2-4 weeks.
For most projects, we recommend two coats of Mylands paint to achieve full depth of colour and a smooth, even finish.
- Primed or previously painted surfaces – usually 2 coats are enough.
- Bare, porous, or stained surfaces – a suitable primer/undercoat plus 2 topcoats may be required.
- Darker shades over lighter colours (or vice versa) – an extra coat may be needed for complete coverage.
Always follow the guidance on the tin for best results.
Mylands paints are versatile and formulated for a wide range of surfaces, including:
- Walls & Ceilings – fresh plaster, lime plaster and lining paper
- Woodwork – doors, skirting boards, furniture, and cabinets
- Metal – radiators, railings, and trim
- Floors – wooden and concrete floors
- Exterior Surfaces – brick, render, wood, and metal
With the correct primer or preparation, Mylands paints can be used on almost any surface to achieve a long-lasting, professional finish. Discover the right paint for your next project here.
Yes, Mylands paints can be applied with a spray gun as well as a brush or roller. Just follow your sprayer’s guidelines and, if needed, thin the paint slightly for a smooth finish.
We also have further details per finish on our product advice sheets.
Mylands paints are made using a blend of high-quality natural ingredients and modern technology. Key materials include:
- Natural earth pigments – for rich, deep colour and exceptional coverage
- Plant-based resins and binders – for breathability, durability and flexibility
- Water-based formulas – low in VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), making them safer for your home and the environment
All Mylands paints are crafted in London by our in-house lab and factory, designed to be both beautiful and environmentally responsible.
Yes, many Mylands paints are formulated to be breathable. This means they allow moisture and water vapour to pass through, helping walls and surfaces “breathe” naturally.
Using a breathable paint can help prevent peeling, blistering, and damp issues, making it particularly suitable for older buildings and lime plastered walls.
For the best results, always check the product details to confirm breathability for your specific surface.
For newly plastered or traditional lime plaster walls, we recommend using breathable, water-based Mylands paints. These allow moisture to pass through and help prevent peeling or blistering.
- Marble Matt Emulsion – ideal for a smooth, breathable finish.
- Plant-Based Multi-Surface – specially designed to work across multiple surface types.
Always ensure the lime plaster is fully cured and dry before painting, which may take several weeks depending on thickness and conditions. We also recommend using a Mylands primer to prepare your walls.
Yes, but only once the plaster is fully cured and dry. Fresh plaster contains moisture that must evaporate before painting, which can take several weeks, depending on thickness and environmental conditions.
For best results on newly plastered walls:
- Use breathable, water-based Mylands paints, such as Marble Matt or Plant-Based Multi-Surface.
- Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust
- Using a Mylands primer is recommended as fresh plaster can be porous. Painting too early can cause blistering, peeling, or uneven coverage, so patience is key for a professional finish.
Yes, some Mylands paints can be thinned slightly to make application easier, particularly for spraying or rolling. Thinning too much can affect coverage, opacity, and durability, so it’s best to only add a little at a time.
Please refer to the product advice sheet for individual recommendations for each finish.
Most Mylands paints are low-VOC and water-based, so are virtually odor free compared with traditional solvent-based paints.
Some finishes may have a mild smell during application, but it dissipates quickly with good ventilation. Properly ventilating the room while painting will help the paint dry faster and keep any odours minimal.
Mylands paints are designed to be safe and pleasant to use indoors, making them ideal for home projects.
We no longer sell Olive Stone Emulsion. However, the closest equivalent is our Plant-Based Multi-Surface Paint, which offers a similar durable, eco-friendly finish and is suitable for a wide range of interior and exterior surfaces.
We recommend checking the colour options and product details to find the best match for your project. Please let us know if you’d like any guidance on choosing the perfect shade or finish.
Deciding which paint is for you
Choosing the perfect paint colour can be easier with Mylands’ expert tools and guidance:
- Explore our swatch cards, sample pots, and inspiration guides to see colours in action. Discover our colour tools.
- Use your samples to apply paint swatches in different areas of your space, as you want to observe how light and surroundings affect the colour. Read about what you need to consider here.
For personalised guidance, our Colour Consultancy service provides expert advice on palettes, finishes, and application to achieve the perfect result.
By combining our colour tools, sample testing, and professional advice, you can confidently select a colour you’ll love for years.
If you would like personal advice, then please contact our team about our Colour Consultancy service.
For help choosing the right finish, see our useful guide here.
You can either use the paint calculator on the product page or read in full guide on how to calculate how much paint you need here.
If you are still unsure, please contact our customer service team by phone on +44 208 670 9161 or use the contact form here.
Marble Matt Emulsion is an ultra-matt, breathable paint infused with real Carrara marble, ideal for interior walls and ceilings in high-traffic areas. It’s scrubbable and mould-resistant.
Plant-Based Multi-Surface Dead Matt is a versatile, flat finish made with natural earth pigments and plant-based resins, yet still highly durable. It works on walls, wood, and metal, inside or out. Perfect for colour drenching projects and built-in furniture.
In short, choose Marble Matt Emulsion for a luxurious interior finish on walls, and Plant-Based Multi-Surface Dead Matt for a flexible, option suitable for multiple surfaces.
Mylands Plant-Based Multi-Surface paints are ideal for mixed surfaces. This paint performs as well on cabinets and skirting as it does on walls and ceilings. Available in four sheen types, use together with our Plant-Based Primer to ensure the perfect flawless finish.
Mylands Plant-Based Multi-Surface paints are the perfect choice for use on radiators. Suitable for use on metal and walls, you can achieve a seamless look with one paint. Available in four sheen types, use together with our Plant-Based Primer to ensure the perfect flawless finish.
Samples & Colour Tools
Our 100ml sample pots are available in Marble Matt Emulsion finish.
We also have larger 250ml pots available in selected Plant-Based Multi-Surface finishes.
Jinny Blom Collection - These 100ml sample pots are Plant-Based Multi-Surface Dead Matt
Our standard sample pot size is 100ml but we do also have 250ml pots available for testing larger areas or multiple walls.
- 100ml sample pot should cover approx 1.5sqm
- 250ml sample pot should cover approx 3.75sqm
Discovering your perfect paint shade shouldn’t require a leap of faith. By using Mylands samples pots your can be sure you’ll be happy with your colour choice. For sample pot success follow these easy steps:
- Make sure your surface is clean and free from dust, soap or grease.
- Apply paint generously, on all walls and surfaces your are planning to paint.
- Observe the dried sample swatches in different lights - morning, afternoon and artificial.
- Compare you choice against other elements in the room, furnishing, curtains, flooring to ensure a harmonious result.
Once satisfied with your selection, proceed to purchase your full-sized paint with confidence.
A Colour Card is a your first introduction to Mylands colours. These cards contain our full colour collections and each swatch is painted in real Mylands paint. Discover our colours and refine your selection.
Our Fan Deck features all our colours from our Colours of London, Greys & Neutrals and FTT collections. Used by professionals or for larger projects, the generously sized swatches give you a more comprehensive sense of our colours.
Mylands Box of Colour is the ultimate introduction to our signature collections. Each individual A5 sized swatch is painted in real Mylands paint and can be flicked through in the box or attached to your walls to get the most close-to-life experience of Mylands colours.
Explore our tools now >
Paint Aftercare
You can clean brushes and roller using water and soap/ mild detergent.
Yes, can touch up the surface you have painted. Particularly necessary in high traffic ares where scuffs and marks are likely to appear. Our paints provide a smooth even finish, so touching up at a later date is easy and will leave no trace.
Note: When you touch up a spot the paint may look different but as it cures it should blend in. However if the wall was painted some years ago and has been bleached from light and experienced wear and tear then we would recommend repainting the whole wall for a uniform finish.
Our water-based formulations can be removed with soap and water, we recommend using a putty knife to scrape off the excess and pat the area with a dry absorbent cloth to soak up as much of the paint as possible without rubbing. Then use a clean cloth with soap and water, gently blot into the carpet trying to avoid any rubbing motion and keep patting the area to remove paint that is being lifted with a dry clean cloth.
Removing the paint is easier whilst it is still wet, but even dry paint is removable. For dried on paint, you may need to use some hot water to help soften it first before the removal process.
To remove paint from brick or concrete, you can use:
- Pressure washing – Effective for large areas and exterior surfaces.
- Chemical paint strippers – Apply a paint remover, then scrub or rinse off.
- Wire brushing or sanding – For small patches or stubborn spots, manually scrub or sand the surface.
Once opened paint can be kept for up to 18 months if kept in the right conditions. We recommend you store in a cool dry place that is not exposed to extreme temperatures (hot or cold). Check our product advice sheets for more details.
We recommend you store in a cool dry place that is not exposed to extreme temperatures (hot or cold). Check our product advice sheets for more details.
Wood finishes advice
Wax polish enhances wood’s natural beauty with a soft, classic sheen and is easy to refresh, while varnish provides a tougher, longer-lasting protective coat with a smooth finish. Both bring out the best in wood, just choose based on the look and level of protection you want.
Varnish gives wood a durable, protective finish with options from matte to gloss, making it ideal for lasting protection and a timeless look. Lacquer dries quickly to a smooth, high-gloss finish that really makes the grain pop, and it’s easy to touch up. Both deliver beautiful results, just pick the finish that suits your style and project needs.
Each of of stains offer unique features making them suitable for a wide range of projects and wood types.
- Lightfast: Resists fading in sunlight, ideal for exterior wood.
- Nitrostain: Fast-drying, rich colour, solvent-based.
- Earth: Natural pigments, subtle muted tones.
- Water-based: Low-VOC, easy to clean, safe for indoors.
No, stains are to colour and nourish wood but you will need to apply a protective layer over the top. This can be an wax, oil, varnish or combination.
A wood sealer is a protective base coat that penetrates the wood to block out moisture, reduce staining, and prepares the surface for finishes like varnish, lacquer, or wax. It helps the final finish look better and last longer.
Floors need a tough, durable finish. Most people choose varnish for strong protection against wear and spills.
Stains can be used first to add colour, while sealers help lock out moisture. Wax alone isn’t usually hard-wearing enough for floors, but can be used on top of other finishes for extra sheen.
For kitchen worktops, choose a finish that’s durable, water-resistant, and food-safe. Oils or varnishes are ideal, they protect against spills, heat, and daily wear while enhancing the wood’s natural beauty.
Stains and sealers can be used beforehand to adjust colour and improve protection, and a thin layer of wax can add extra sheen if desired.
For decking, choose a finish that protects against weather, UV rays, and moisture.
Exterior varnishes, decking oils, or water-repellent stains work best, they enhance the wood’s appearance while keeping it durable outdoors.
Regular maintenance helps your deck stay beautiful year after year.
Start by sanding the wood smooth, removing any dust, dirt, or old finishes. If desired, apply a sealer to block moisture and even out the surface.
Once clean and dry, the wood is ready for stains, oils, varnishes, or waxes, proper preparation helps the finish look its best and last longer.
Knotting is a sealant that stops oils and natural resins from the wood from seeping out and causing the paint or wood finish to lift or discolour.
If you are applying a paint or finish to completely untreated wood, we recommend using knotting solution.
trade & professionals
Please use the form on this page to apply for a trade account with us. Once we receive your application you will be contacted by us to explain pricing, discounts and how to order.
Yes, our trade account is available to interior designers, architects and decorators, as well as stockists. Apply for a trade account here.
Yes, we offer preferred pricing to our trade customers across our full product range, including sample pots and colour tools.
We will be happy to place your order if you contact our customer service team Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm.
There is no minimum quantity required for trade orders.
Yes. Mylands paints are ideal for commercial spaces like offices, hotels, and shops. They offer durable, washable, and high-quality finishes that handle heavy use while keeping colours vibrant and consistent.
Yes. Mylands wood products are formulated for durability, protection, and a beautiful finish, making them suitable for floors, doors, and other joinery. Professionals trust them for both residential and commercial projects.
Yes. Our paints and finishes are designed to work with spray systems and professional tools, giving smooth, even coverage for both large-scale and detailed projects. Please refer to the product advice sheets for individual advice by finish.
Yes. Product advice sheets are available for all our paint and wood finish products.
Yes, Mylands offers product training as part of our exclusive trade programme. This includes bespoke services, product training, preferred pricing, and same-day delivery. For more information or to apply for a trade account, click here.
ABOUT MYLANDS
Brand & Quality
Mylands is Britain’s oldest family-owned paint and wood finish manufacturer, established in London in 1884. We create premium paints, wood finishes, and polishes using traditional craftsmanship and high-quality ingredients.
Our ranges include interior and exterior paints, wood treatments, and specialist finishes, all designed to deliver beautiful, durable results.
Yes. Our paints are made with high-quality pigments and resins, giving excellent coverage, rich colour, and a durable finish that lasts. Our Marble Matt Emulsion has more pigment than any other paint, so you can be sure to achieve an unbeatable depth of colour while using less paint overall.
Proper surface preparation helps deliver the very best results, we offer a range of primers and undercoats to help you achieve the perfect finish.
Yes. Many of our finishes, including our Marble Matt Emulsion, are washable and scrubbable, making them ideal for busy homes and high-traffic areas.
Yes. Mylands paints are proudly made in London, continuing our family tradition of quality craftsmanship since 1884.
Film and TV professionals use Mylands because our paints deliver consistent, high-quality results that look stunning on screen and last through production.
We offer professional grade products for our trade customers, please apply for a trade account here, if you would like more information.
Sustainability
At Mylands we are committed to ensuring our products are manufactured sustainably. We use natural fillers and resins in our paint products, better for the environment and for you. All our paints are made-to-order, cutting down on excess waste.
Our paints and wood finishes are manufactured in our London based factory, reducing emissions from transportation.
Planet Mark is an internationally recognised sustainability certification that demonstrates measurable progress, encourages continuous improvement, and strengthens a network of organisations with shared values. The certification is awarded to businesses that are committed to reducing their carbon footprint.
Yes, our paints are low-VOC thanks to the natural ingredients used.
Low-VOC paints contain far fewer of the chemicals that evaporate into the air and can cause indoor pollution or health issues. Traditional paints often rely on strong carbon-based solvents, but low-VOC paints reduce these to make them safer for you and the environment..
