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What Is Synthetic Enamel Paint? Complete Guide with Colours & Uses

Published: 15 Feb 2022 | Modified: 14 Oct 2025

Quick Summary

Synthetic enamel paint is a tough, glossy coating that works very well on wood and metal. It stands up to stains, moisture, and daily knocks, which makes it a favourite for doors, windows, grills, and furniture.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

In this guide, you will find simple answers to common questions, the right tools to use, trending enamel paint colours, easy application steps, and care tips for a long-lasting shine. Links and images are provided so your team can plug this page into the site quickly.

What is Synthetic Enamel Paint and Why is it Used?

Synthetic enamel paint is made with synthetic resins that cure into a hard film. The finish looks rich and smooth. It also protects the surface beneath from dust, light spills, and weather. Indian homes use it for items that are opened, shut, and touched many times a day. Think of front doors, cupboard shutters, railings, and balcony furniture.

The reason Nerolac synthetic enamel is quite famous among people is because of the line it offers: it is very simple to apply, offers a smooth finish, and can be used in our climate. Combined with the appropriate primer and a quality Synthetic Paint Brush, the outcome is tidy, and it remains tidy.

How Does Synthetic Enamel Differ From Acrylic Enamel Paint?

Acrylic Enamel Paint is water-soluble and dries quickly. Synthetic enamel is liquid and hardens into a somewhat harder finish. Acrylic enamel is convenient in case you require a fast turnaround at home.

Synthetic enamel is generally the safer choice in case you require additional durability on doors, grills or outdoor furniture. Cleaning is different as well. Acrylic clean-up uses water and mild soap. Synthetic needs a recommended thinner.

Is Nerolac Synthetic Enamel Paint Durable For Long-Term Use?

Yes, when you prepare the surface well and follow the coat timings. The film resists minor scratches and regular wiping. On metal, use a rust-inhibiting primer from Nerolac first. On wood, use a sealer or primer so the top coat looks even. With this system, the finish holds its gloss for an extended period, and touch-ups blend better.

What are the Main Types of Enamel Paint Available?

Below are some of the main types of enamel paint available:

Synthetic Enamel: Solvent-based, rich gloss, strong film, great for wood and metal.
Acrylic Enamel: Water-based, faster drying, lower odour, easy maintenance.
Speciality Enamels: options that offer satin or soft sheen, heat resistance, or quick drying for specific needs.

Also Read: What is Enamel Paint? Uses & Benefits

What are the Differences Between Synthetic Paint And Enamel Paint?

“Synthetic paint”is a broad term. It only tells you the binder is synthetic. “Enamel paint” refers to the smooth, often glossy finish that cures into a hard coat. Synthetic enamel combines both. It is an enamel finish made with synthetic resins, which is why you see strong gloss and better resistance to wear.

How Does Acrylic Enamel Paint Compare With Synthetic Enamel Paint?

Drying: Acrylic dries faster, and synthetic needs a longer open time, which helps the brush marks settle.
Toughness: synthetic gives a slightly harder film, useful on grills and high-touch doors.
Cleaning: acrylic wash-up with water; synthetic needs thinner as per pack advice.
Look: both look classy. Nerolac synthetic hi-gloss enamel often gives a classic mirror-like gloss that many homeowners prefer for main doors and formal furniture.

Which Enamel Paint Colours are Trending for Homes And Furniture?

Colour choice decides the mood of the room. Here are easy, timeless picks that suit Indian homes and light conditions.

Why is White Enamel Paint Popular for Interiors?

White enamel Paint feels clean and crisp. It bounces light around small rooms and frames coloured walls nicely. Use it on trims, window frames, and study tables. If the home gets less sunlight, a warm white avoids a cold feel. Keep kitchens and pooja rooms in soft white for a calm look.

Where can Black Enamel Paint be Used Effectively?

Black Enamel Paint gives a strong contrast. It looks premium on balcony grills, metal gates, and accent furniture like side tables. A black television cabinet with brushed metal handles also looks impressive in a modern living room. On exterior metal, make the surface clean, remove rust, prime thoroughly, and then overlay with two or three thin coats to add depth.

What Makes Golden Brown Enamel Paint a Stylish Choice?

A classic for Indian woodwork. Golden brown enamel paint pairs well with cream or beige walls and brings warmth to the space. Use it on main doors, frames, and study desks. The tone hides minor scuffs better than very light shades, which is helpful in busy households.

Which Wood Enamel Paint Colours Are Best For Doors And Furniture?

When using wood enamel paint, teak brown can be used to make a home feel sunny, walnut is used in a formal look, and a deep mahogany helps to make a heritage feel. When the room is small, use mid browns instead of very dark colours. Match the handles and hinges in a brushed brass finish to tie the look together.

How to Choose The Right Synthetic Enamel Paint for Your Project?

Start with the surface, then pick the finish and colour, and finally match the tools.

Should I Use Nerolac Synthetic Enamel For Wood Or Metal?

Yes, the range suits both. For wood, seal the pores so the first coat does not sink in unevenly. For metal, use a rust care primer from Nerolac, allow the correct interval, then apply the enamel. Check the pack for thinner and recoat times. If the site is coastal or very humid, keep doors and windows open for good ventilation during drying.

How To Select Enamel Paint Colour Combinations For Walls And Furniture?

Here is how to choose enamel paint colour combinations:

Pair white trims with pastel walls for a fresh look.
Use black grills with a soft grey colour exterior for modern curb appeal.
Match golden brown doors with cream walls and a warm light.
Balance deep wood colours with light curtains and simple hardware.
In kids’ rooms, keep furniture in white or pale wood so wall art stands out.

How To Apply Synthetic Enamel Paint For Best Results?

Good results start with patient prep. A clean and level base makes the gloss look like glass.

Wash or wipe the surface. Remove grease and dust.
Sand lightly. The aim is to dull the old shine so the fresh coat grips better.
Fix dents with a suitable filler, allow it to dry, and sand smooth again.
Prime with the right product for wood or metal. Follow the coverage on the pack.
Stir the enamel well. Strain if needed for a finer finish.
Apply thin coats. Thick coats wrinkle.
Respect the recoat time. The film gets stronger when you let it sit.

Also Read: How to Apply Enamel Paint for Metal?

What Type of Synthetic Paint Brush Should be Used?

Use a soft Synthetic Paint Brush with tapered bristles. It lays the paint evenly and leaves fewer marks. For doors and table tops, a short nap mini roller speeds up work. Pick up a small angled brush for corners and beading.

Also Read: Using Paint Rollers and Brushes Tips

How Many Coats of Enamel Paint Are Needed For a Smooth Finish?

Two thin coats usually do the job. A third coat adds depth to very dark Enamel Colour shades like black or deep walnut. Let each coat dry through, not just touch-dry. Rushing invites sagging or print marks.

Can Enamel Colour be Applied Directly on Wood or Metal?

You can, but it is not wise on most jobs. Bare metal needs a primer that blocks rust. Bare wood needs a sealer to control absorption. If you are touching up a small scuff on an old enamelled door, clean, sand the edge softly, and spot prime the bare patch only. Then blend with the top coat.

How To Maintain Enamel Paint Finish For Long-Lasting Shine?

How to Clean Surfaces Painted With Enamel Paint?

Dust weekly with a soft cloth. For sticky marks, use a damp cloth and a drop of mild liquid soap. Wring the cloth well so water does not sit on the edge of the panels. Dry with a clean towel. On metal grills, a soft brush helps reach corners.

What are the Common Issues With Enamel Paints and How to fix Them?

Yellowing on white: happens in dark kitchens or rooms with little sunlight. Improve ventilation and clean gently. For old work that has turned cream, plan a fresh coat with a modern low-yellowing white.
Brush marks: switch to a better brush, do not overwork the paint, and keep coats thin. A small amount of the recommended thinner helps the paint level.
Peeling on metal: check for rust under the paint. Sand back to a sound base, apply rust care primer, then metal enamel paints.
Sticky doors: often due to thick coats or poor cure time. Sand light, leave more time between coats, and avoid shutting doors tight on the same day.
Wrinkling: caused by heavy application. Strip the patch, level it, and repaint with thin layers.

Key Takeaways

Nerolac synthetic enamel gives a rich gloss and a strong film for wood and metal.
Pick colours that suit Indian light: White for crisp trims, black for strong accents, golden brown for warm doors, and classic wood tones for furniture.
Prep and primer are as crucial as the top coat.
Use a quality synthetic paint Brush or a smooth mini roller.
Follow thin coats and proper recoat times.
Clean gently and ventilate spaces to keep white shades bright.

Nerolac Paints, a leading paint company in India offers a wide range of wall paint colours & painting services & solutions for homes & offices.

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FAQs

What is synthetic enamel paint, and how is it different from regular

It is an enamel finish made with synthetic resins. Compared with standard wall emulsion, it forms a harder film, gives higher gloss, and protects wood and metal from daily wear.

Is Nerolac synthetic enamel suitable for both wood and metal surfaces?

Yes, use a sealer or wood primer on timber, and an anti-rust primer on metal. Then apply the enamel as per the pack schedule.

Which enamel paint colours are best for wooden furniture?

Teak, walnut, and mahogany are dependable wood enamel paint colours. Golden brown also looks warm and forgiving in busy homes.

Can I mix synthetic enamel paint with acrylic enamel paint?

Do not mix them in the same tin. Their binders and thinners are different. You can use acrylic on one piece and synthetic on another, but keep systems separate.

What is the best synthetic paint brush for smooth application?

A soft-bristle synthetic paint brush with a fine tip gives smooth edges. Choose a width that matches the panel you are painting so you can cover in steady, clean strokes.

Does white enamel paint turn yellow over time?

It can be used in low light or near cooking fumes. Choose a modern, yellow white enamel paint, keep rooms airy, and wipe surfaces with mild soap when needed.

How durable is black enamel paint for outdoor use?

Very practical for grills and gates when you use the whole system. Remove rust, apply metal primer, then finish with two to three thin coats of black enamel paint.

Where can I use golden brown enamel paint for interiors?

Main doors, frames, study tables, and classic cabinets. Golden brown enamel paint pairs well with cream walls and warm white lights.

What’s the drying time of synthetic enamel paint compared to acrylic enamel?

Acrylic usually dries faster. Synthetic takes longer but cures into a very robust film. Follow the recoat time on the pack for the weather at your site.

How to remove stains or scratches from enamel-painted surfaces?

For stains, wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap. For light scratches on wood, sand gently with a very fine paper and dab a touch-up coat. On metal window grills, spot prime bare patches first.