Chrome mirror metallic painted shells on a white background Chrome mirror metallic painted shells on a white surface

Chrome FAQs

Get answers to frequently asked questions and read our tips for best results using Chrome gilding enamel.

SHOP CHROME

Application

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Chrome is a uniquely brushable chrome enamel, designed for detailed decorative work on smooth, non-porous surfaces.

Chrome has been formulated with highly specialised foil pigments that align as the paint dries, allowing a mirror-like chrome effect to be created by hand.
Chrome does not require thinning. It has exceptional fluidity and may be used in an airbrush if desired. We recommend using the largest suitable nozzle and applying in very thin layers. If spraying Chrome, wear a suitable respirator designed for solvent vapours.

Chrome was formulated to achieve a mirror finish by brush, so testing on a sample surface is recommended before completing your project.
Use a soft synthetic brush and apply in thin, controlled layers. Heavy application will reduce reflectivity. Allow the paint to level naturally and avoid overworking. Use in a well-ventilated area.
Chrome is solvent-based. Clean brushes with white spirit or turpentine. Do not use water.

Surface Suitability

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Chrome is designed for smooth, non-porous surfaces such as glass, metal, ceramics, sealed wood and certain plastics.

Porous materials should be properly primed to create a hard, sealed base before application to achieve maximum reflectivity.
Yes, Chrome can be applied to wood once the surface has been fully sealed or primed to create a hard, non-absorbent base. Raw timber must be sealed prior to application to prevent absorption and ensure the mirror finish develops correctly.
Yes. Ensure the surface is clean, stable and free from grease or corrosion before painting.

Finish & Performance

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Chrome achieves its highest reflectivity on smooth, non-porous surfaces.

For best results:

  • Apply only to sealed, non-absorbent substrates
  • Use a soft synthetic brush
  • Apply in very thin, controlled layers
  • Avoid overworking the product
  • Do not apply a top coat

Porous or textured surfaces will absorb the paint and reduce reflectivity, resulting in a softer metallic effect rather than a mirror finish.

Thin application and a perfectly smooth base are essential for maximum shine.

No. Chrome is not designed to be top-coated. Lacquers or sealers will interfere with the foil alignment and diminish the mirror effect.
Chrome contains specialised foil pigments that align during drying. Once cured, this alignment creates the highly reflective, mirror-like surface.

Durability & Use

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Chrome is a decorative mirror finish. It can be handled once fully dry; however, frequent abrasion or harsh cleaning may reduce reflectivity over time.

For high-wear environments, consider our Super GILD collection, which is suitable for interior and exterior use.
Chrome forms a waterproof finish once dry, but is designed primarily for decorative interior applications. Prolonged outdoor exposure may reduce its reflective quality.

For a silver-toned finish suitable for exterior projects, we recommend Super GILD Platinum.
Chrome is not a heat-rated coating. It is formulated as a decorative mirror finish.

Some members of our community have used Chrome on items such as radiators with success; however, it has not been specifically tested or certified for high-temperature or automotive applications.

Repeated exposure to high heat, steam, moisture or harsh environmental conditions may reduce durability and reflectivity over time.

Chrome is not a high-temperature industrial coating, and use on heat-intensive applications is at your discretion.

Drying & Curing

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Chrome is touch dry in approximately 4–6 hours and can be recoated after 24 hours.

We recommend at least 24 hours before handling. Drying times may vary depending on temperature and ventilation.

Chrome continues to cure over several days. For full hardness and durability, allow up to 7 days.

Product Information

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Chrome is a single, highly reflective mirror-silver finish and is our only solvent-based enamel.

For gold, brass, copper or bronze metallic finishes, explore the GILD Originals and Super GILD collections. These ranges offer a variety of metallic tones with different application characteristics.
No. Chrome is a solvent-based formulation. Ensure adequate ventilation during application and keep out of reach of children and pets. Clean brushes with white spirit or turpentine.
Chrome is highly concentrated and designed to be applied in very thin layers to achieve a true mirror finish.

A 15ml bottle covers up to 1 square meter when applied in thin layers.

Chrome is formulated to be applied sparingly to achieve maximum reflectivity. Because the mirror effect relies on thin, even coats, a small amount provides significant coverage for detailed and decorative work.
Chrome is a solvent-based, flammable paint.

Use only in a well-ventilated area and keep away from heat, sparks and open flames.

When spraying Chrome, wear a suitable respirator designed for solvent vapours.

Avoid prolonged skin contact and wear gloves if preferred.

Do not pour excess product into drains. Dispose of responsibly in accordance with local regulations.

Cloths or paper towels used with Chrome should be laid flat to dry outdoors before disposal. Do not leave solvent-soaked materials bundled together.