Painting MDF

[Booldawg]

I bought a 'multi-surface' primer but someone has told me I need a MDF sealant as MDF is like a sponge and will soak up the primer

[SlackAlice]

Before I painted MDF I used to seal it with a weak solution of PVA and water.

[The Builder]

Although priming is the most important coat, Boolders, it also depends on what you're finishing with.
Because of MDF's porosity, emulsion can be put on in the same way that plaster is painted. A "mist" coat to start with, then following coats.
For other finishes, an all-purpose primer is just that. To use an MDF primer as well would seem unnecessary.

[The Builder]

^^ agree with Slackers ...........dilute PVA is always a good basic primer as well ^^

[heathfield]

It should say on the can what surfaces it's suitable for. Both Ronseal and Dulux multi-surface primiers state they're suitable for MDF. Otherwise, go as above.

[Booldawg]

thanks all. will go the PVA route