Fusion Mineral Paint - Lichen

Smooth modern finish

Fusion Mineral Paint is self‑levelling, so it naturally settles to an ultra‑smooth, brush‑stroke‑free surface with a subtle low‑sheen matte finish that complements both contemporary and classic interiors.

Highly durable formulation

Once cured, the paint forms a tough acrylic resin film that is UV‑stable as well as water‑ and stain‑resistant, making it ideal for hardworking furniture, cabinetry and even some exterior projects.

Little to no prep work required

Thanks to its self‑priming formulation, Fusion bonds securely to most clean, sound surfaces—such as previously painted pieces and bare timber—after a light scuff‑sand and degrease.

No top coat generally required

Thanks to its high‑acrylic resin content, the cured finish is already washable, so a separate protective coat is unnecessary for the majority of projects.

Outstanding coverage

A 500 ml pot covers approximately 7 m² / 75 sq ft. Most colours other than whites or brights achieve full opacity in one to two coats.

Environmentally conscious by design

All Fusion products are non-toxic, lead-free, virtually odourless, and contain no ammonia or formaldehyde. Containers are made from 30% recycled plastic and are themselves recyclable.

• Base: water-based acrylic
• Coverage: approx. 7m² / 75 sq ft per 500 ml
• Finish/sheen: matte (2%–6% sheen)
• Clean up: soap and water
• Dry time: approx. 30 min
• Recoat time: 1–2 hours
• Cure time: 21 days
• Shelf life (unopened): up to 7 years

How to choose your colour

• Fusion Fan Deck: real paint chips of every current colour plus mix recipes.
• True colour card: larger hand‑painted swatches for greater accuracy.
• Printed colour chart: handy leaflet for a quick overview.
• Minipots (67 ml): the surest way to see a colour in your own lighting before committing. Fusion is replacing its 37 ml testers with larger 67 ml minipots; while the changeover runs, some colours still show a 37 ml tester and some already show the 67 ml minipot.

What is the Core Collection?

The Core Collection contains the 56 most popular colours.

What is the Extended Collection?

The Fusion Extended Collection features eighteen bright or light colours: Azure, Buttermilk, Coral, Fort York Red, Heirloom, Homestead Blue, Inglenook, Lamp White, Little Star, Little Whale, Mist, Mustard, Park Bench, Peony, Renfrew Blue, Sterling, Tuscan Orange, Upper Canada Green.

What is the status of other colours?

The following seven colours are not discontinued but have reduced production: Brook, Cranberry, Laurentian, Little Teapot, Pebble, Picket Fence, Plaster.

Can you mix Fusion colours?

Yes! Fusion demonstrates dozens of colour recipes in the Fan Deck, giving the exact proportions required to create beautiful custom shades. These simple recipes are given as a 500 ml pot mixed with a 37 ml tester, or a 50:50 mix.

How far does a 500 ml pot of paint go?

The coverage is 7m² / 75 sq ft per 500ml (also referred to as a pint). That’s not always easy to visualise, so check out this handy visual guide. For large areas such as floors and kitchens, you will need to calculate how much paint you will need.

What can I use a Fusion minipot for?

Minipots are ideal for:

• Trialling colours in your own space and lighting
• Small décor projects such as picture frames and plant pots
• Accent details or stencilling without committing to a full‑size pot

Preparation

1. Clean: remove hardware and clean the surface with Fusion TSP Alternative to eliminate grease, dirt and polish
2. Scuff‑sand: lightly sand glossy or sealed surfaces with ~120‑grit paper, then remove all dust
3. Prime if necessary: for very smooth, non‑porous substrates (glass, melamine, metal) apply Fusion Ultra Grip and allow to dry overnight

Application

• Stir, don’t shake: avoid introducing bubbles
• Apply thin coats with a high‑quality synthetic brush, micro‑fibre roller or sprayer
• Drying & recoating: leave 1–2 hours between coats
• Optional sanding: de‑nib between coats with 400–600 grit for a silky finish
• Curing: treat the piece gently for 21 days until fully cured

Do I need to sand the piece before applying Fusion Mineral Paint?

Yes. You need to at least degloss a shiny surface by giving the piece a good scuff sand. The sandpaper grit will be dependent on the toughness of the of the finish, but 120 grit will usually suffice. I like to thoroughly sand my pieces.

Top tip: clean the piece using Fusion TSP Alternative before you sand, this will prevent any grease or dirt from being warmed and pushed into the grain, which could affect adhesion.

Can I use Fusion on shiny surfaces which can’t be sanded?

Yes you can. Thoroughly clean with a good degreaser such as Fusion TSP Alternative, allow the piece to thoroughly dry, then apply Fusion Ultra Grip, which is a strong bonding primer.

Do I need to use a primer with Fusion Mineral Paint?

Fusion Mineral Paint has great adhesion properties so in the main you don’t need a primer.

For slippery surfaces where you can’t sand, use Fusion’s Ultra Grip, and for preventing bleed-through and water marks use a Shellac-based primer such as Zinsser Bin or Blockade

What brushes are best for applying Fusion Mineral Paint?

Use a high-quality, soft synthetic bristle brush. Don’t compromise the results by using an old brush that has seen better days: invest in a new brush. I recommend choosing a Cling On! brush

How do I avoid brush strokes using Fusion Mineral Paint?

Use a soft synthetic brush and apply in thin layers. Work in the direction of the paint and don’t keep going over the same area, as this will cause the paint to drag as it dries.

How do I stop my paint drying too quickly?

Hot, dry or windy conditions shorten open‑time and can cause drag marks. Lightly mist the surface or your brush with clean water, work in smaller sections, add up to 5% Fusion Extender, and move the piece out of direct heat and sunlight if possible.

Can you use a roller to apply Fusion Mineral Paint?

Yes – use a low nap micro fibre roller such as Staalmeester or Two Fussy Blokes. Avoid foam rollers, which can introduce bubbles.

Load your roller thoroughly and apply thin even strokes without applying pressure.

Do I need to sand Fusion Mineral Paint between coats?

For a super smooth finish I recommend that you “de-nib” the paint and sand between coats, once the paint is touch-dry, using a 500 or 600 grit sandpaper.

Can I spray Fusion Mineral Paint?

Yes. Although formulated for brushing, Fusion sprays beautifully when thinned with up to 5% water. Always observe sprayer manufacturer safety guidelines.

What is the recoat and drying time for Fusion Mineral Paint?

Fusion Mineral paint is touch dry in 30 minutes. Allow 1–2 hours between coats.

What does the cure time for Fusion Mineral Paint mean?

Fusion achieves its full strength and durability after 21 days once it is fully dried, or cured. Furniture can be used with gentle care 24–48 hours after painting.

Do I need to use a top coat over Fusion Mineral Paint?

Fusion Mineral Paint cures to a hard, highly durable finish, but a top coat is recommended when:

• The piece will see heavy traffic (kitchen cabinets, table tops, floors), or
• You want to alter the finish (e.g. to change the sheen).

What top coats can I use over Fusion Mineral Paint?

From the Fusion range:

• Tough Coat: water‑based 100% acrylic (polyacrylic) sealer, available in matte (soft sheen) or gloss options
• Ultra Guard: water-based polyurethane varnish, available in flat matte and satin options
• Hemp Oil: enhances and enriches the paint colour (only recommended on dark colours)
• Stain & Finishing Oil (SFO): adds colour and a hand‑rubbed satin finish in one step
• Beeswax or fragranced waxes (Hills of Tuscany, Fields of Lavender): add a soft, buffable sheen with a touch of scent
• Decorative waxes: add age, highlights or subtle shimmer

What surfaces can I paint with Fusion Mineral Paint?

Wood, previously painted surfaces, metal, glass, laminate, melamine, tile, brick, uPVC, and leather can all be painted with Fusion as long as they are properly cleaned and, where appropriate, scuff‑sanded or primed.

Can I paint floors with Fusion Mineral Paint?

Yes. With the correct preparation you can paint wooden, laminate and tiled floors. Always finish with Tough Coat or Ultra Guard for maximum durability.

Can I use Fusion Mineral Paint outside?

Fusion’s high‑quality resin makes it naturally durable and UV‑resistant, so colours are slow to fade outdoors.

Can I paint radiators with Fusion Mineral Paint?

Yes, as long as they do not become excessively hot. Fusion is not a heat‑rated paint, so avoid areas close to open flames or very high temperatures.

What is the shelf life of Fusion Mineral Paint?

The shelf life of Fusion Mineral Paint is seven years in an unopened pot. If you open and use some of the paint, ensure the rim is clear of any residue and seal it tightly.

If the original pot is contaminated with dried paint, decant into a clean, labelled air-tight container.

Store where there are no extremes in temperature, such as below freezing or in extreme heat or direct sunlight, and the paint can still can last for up to seven years.

Is Fusion Mineral Paint child-safe?

Fusion Mineral Paint is water-based and non-toxic. Whilst it can be used on children's furniture, it is not intended for items that may go into a child's mouth.

Is Fusion Mineral Paint food safe?

Fusion Mineral Paint is not food-safe and should not be used on surfaces that come into direct contact with food, such as chopping boards. However, it is fine if you want to paint the top of your dining table.

Creative and bold: Alchemy by Fusion blends the best of chalk-style painting with innovative textures and finishes, perfect for layering, blending and distressing to inspire bold, creative masterpieces.

Modern and sleek: Fusion Mineral Paint redefines DIY painting with its easy application, smooth matte finish, and long-lasting durability, making it the ideal choice for polished, timeless projects.

Authentic and rustic: the Fusion journey began with Fusion Milk Paint, a natural, eco-friendly paint that creates authentic aged finishes, perfect for rustic, chippy looks and soft vintage washes that capture timeless charm.

Download a point-by-point comparison of the three ranges (PDF).