When we were discussing what options we had for the top coat of paint internally we had, our friends at Dulux suggested that we consider using a product called Suede Effects. This is an easy to apply product that has the look of suede when the second coat is applied in a criss-cross fashion. Not only does it make for an interesting effect but the paint will hide imperfections and resists mild burnishing. This is particularly so when you also apply a coat of Matt Clear Coat . This gives the Suede Effects improved washability and better resistance to wear and tear. This is an important factor in terms of Universal Design. Materials and surfaces need to be resilient so that they can sustain the occasional knock from a wheelchair.

The first coat of the Dulux Suede Effects can be applied with a roller, so that you get good even coverage. The second coat is applied with a wide paintbrush in a criss-cross pattern. This application technique gives you the suede effect. It is interesting as the effect is not evident as you are applying but starts to stand out as the paint dries. Its a bit like writing in invisible ink but in reverse. The other thing that we noted was that the suede effect was more noticeable on the dark red colour than the lighter colour. However the next day when we applied the Matt Clear Coat the suede effect was more noticable on the light colour as it seemed to darken it slightly.

So here is how we did the internal painting if you click on any of the bold product headings below you will download a Dulux data sheet for that product.

1. After the plasters had finished we did a really good dusting down and a damp wipe to ensure that we had a sound surface to work with. We then did all of the drop sheeting and held it down with masking tape. We then applied one coat of Dulux 1 Step Acrylic Sealer to all of the walls and ceilings. This acted as both a sealer and an undercoat.
2. The next step was to apply the ceiling paint. Here we used Dulux Ceiling White.This is a high opacity thick paint that does not drip or run as much as normal wall paint.
3. We then applied the first coat of Dulux Suede Effects using a roller. A second coat was applied the next day using a wide brush in a criss-cross fashion.
4. The final step was to apply a coat of Dulux Clear Coat Matt. This improves the Suede Effects resistance to wear and tear.

You can see more photos of the painting process in the picture gallery in week 34 , week 35 and week 36 .