Frequently Asked Questions
With Rethunk Junk, the process of creating fabulous furniture is really so simple! You're going to love it! We have answered our most commonly asked questions below, but if you don't see the answer to YOUR question, please reach out. We'd love to help!
New around here?
Just Getting Started
How much paint do I need?
One Pint covers an average 5-drawer dresser with two coats of coverage.
One Quart covers 2 average 5-drawer dressers OR a dining table with 4 chairs.
For cabinets, an average project will require one Quart per 10 feet of cabinetry (2 quarts for 10 feet of both upper & lower cabinetry).
I'm new to Rethunk Junk - what do I need to buy for my project?
We are so thrilled you're trying Rethunk Junk!!! You will need our Prep which is our essential first step for cleaning your piece and preparing for the paint. Then you'll need the Paint in your favorite color(s)! We also offer glazes, stains, washes and sealers - so be sure to explore those options as well!
Do I need to sand or use a primer before I paint?
Nope! With Rethunk Junk, you just clean first with our Prep and you're good to get started painting!
Do I have to wax my piece after I paint it like with chalk paints?
No! In fact, we don't recommend waxing at all because it's difficult to use, has to be reapplied every 6 months or so and must be totally removed with harsh chemicals if you ever want to repaint. No wax needed for a beautiful finish using Rethunk Junk!
Is Rethunk Junk an all-in-one paint or do I need a sealer?
Rethunk Junk does not have to be sealed. Our fabulous resin-infused paint will dry to a super tough finish. However, if you have a surface that will be exposed to a ton of wear and tear - like kitchen cabinets, kitchen table, or kids' furniture - and you want added protection - then our protectants are a perfect option. They can help with making clean-up easier too as they help seal the mess out.
Can I use Rethunk Junk outside?
Yes! Our paints are UV-fade resistant and perfect for all types of outdoor projects - no sealant required.
Is Rethunk Junk a chalk or mineral paint?
Actually, Rethunk Junk is neither! We have no powder in our formula at all which makes our paint unique in the furniture paint market. We are a resin- infused, water-based acrylic paint.
How safe is Rethunk Junk?
Rethunk Junk products have very little odor, contain virtually no VOC's and are safe and easy to use. No need to drag your project outside due to fumes!
What all can I paint with Rethunk Junk?
Rethunk Junk by Laura is fabulous for wood furniture and cabinets - that's obvious, but did you know that it also sticks to metal, fiberglass, glass, ceramic, plastic, laminate and even fabric? Pretty much anything you can think of can be transformed with Rethunk Junk!
Where is Rethunk Junk by Laura located?
We are located in Millen, Georgia.
You've got this!
I'm about to start my project....
How do I clean my brush?
All of our products are water-based and are soap and water clean up.
Must I follow the instructions to get good results?
Every project is different and the more you use the products, the more comfortable you will become with the process that works for you. HOWEVER, we do suggest following directions when you're starting out and NEVER SKIP THE PREP.
Do I need to sand or use a primer before I paint?
Nope! With Rethunk Junk, you just clean first with our Prep and you're good to get started painting!
Do I have to use the PREP? Can I just clean the piece really well with a cleaner I already have?
Great question - and the short answer is....use the Prep! It is an amazing product that will prepare your piece like nothing else will.
What is the dry time between coats?
Dry time is dependent on temperature, humidity and other variables, but in most cases, your paint will dry in about 30 minutes. If in doubt, turn on a fan and give it an extra 15 minutes so you're sure it's good and dry before you start the next step.
How do I prevent brush strokes in my finish?
There are a few keys to creating a smooth, finish free of brush strokes. Our paints are self-leveling, however, you want to avoid "over-working" the paint to prevent brush strokes. What does it mean to overwork it? Well, once the paint has begun to set-up or dry at all, running a brush over it will disrupt the self-leveling and add a texture that may not settle back down - creating brush strokes in the finish. To prevent this, we suggest keeping a misting water bottle handy to make sure your paint stays wet as you work.
Work in small, manageable sections as you make your way across the surface. Finish each "row" with a continuous stroke from edge to edge - using a gentle touch with your brush. If you feel like the paint is "dragging" - lightly mist with the water. Then let it be and watch the self-leveling magic work!
Do I have to use a sealer when I'm done?
Rethunk Junk does not have to be sealed. Our tough resin-infused paint will dry to a super tough finish. However, if you have a surface that will be exposed to a ton of wear and tear - like kitchen cabinets, kitchen table, or kids' furniture - and you want added protection, then our protectants are a perfect option. They can help with making clean-up easier too as they help seal the mess out.
Is Rethunk Junk by Laura only for pro painters?
Absolutely not! One of the best things about Rethunk Junk is that you can get professional results without being a professional painter! You've got this!
How do I take care of my finished project?
We offer two fabulous cleaning products which can help keep your freshly Rethunk'd piece looking lovely! Use our Everyday All-Purpose Cleaner for the daily mess. Then up your game with our Weekly Multi-Surface Protectant to help keep things clean for longer! Our cleaners are safe to use around children and pets and across all types of surfaces - painted, stained, plastic, laminate, metal, glass and more.
Learn more skills
The more you know...
What is the shelf life of Rethunk Junk products?
Rethunk Junk products are good for approximately 2 years if unopened. Once opened, products should last for at least 6 months if sealed well and stored appropriately.
How should I store my products?
If you're comfortable, your Rethunk Junk products are comfortable. In other words, they should be protected from freeze and extreme heat and will last best if kept indoors or stored at temperatures between 55 and 85 degrees.
What's the difference between a wash and a glaze?
Great question! Glazes are used to add dimension to projects with lots of detailing. We like to "smoosh" it into the cracks, crevices and carvings and then use a dampened cloth to wipe extra away until we achieve the desired depth and dimension.
Washes are much more subtle and used to add just a bit of interest or texture to the finished look. Apply with a brush or the Miracle Sponge and allow to dry. Washes also add a bit more protection to the finish. They're fabulous on so many projects!
What's the difference between a wash and Tuff Top?
Our washes are protectants that will add a bit of subtle color to the finish of your project. They offer a satin finish.
Tuff Top and Flat Top are both clear polyurethane-based protectants. Tuff Top offers a satin finish and you can increase the amount of sheen by adding more layers of Tuff Top. Our Flat Top is a more of an eggshell finish.
I like a high sheen finish; do you have a glossy sealer?
We do not offer a glossy protectant, but you can create shine by applying extra layers of Tuff Top. Going for really shiny? Three coats of Tuff Top is great for gloss!
Can I use Rethunk Junk with decorative transfers?
Yes, you can use Rethunk Junk with transfers and there is NO NEED to seal the paint prior to applying the transfer. Our paint will accept the transfer beautifully! Plus, our protectants can be used to seal the transfer as well.
Do you sell wax?
No, we don't offer wax because it is petroleum-based and difficult to both work with and remove. We do offer water-based glazes which can achieve the look of tinted waxes and we offer poly-based protectants to seal projects in place of wax if added protection is desired.
Are Rethunk Junk products eco-friendly?
Yes! Our products are low-VOC, water-based and have very little to no odor at all.
Does Rethunk Junk contain latex?
No, Rethunk Junk is acrylic based paint.
Can I ask a question I don't see listed?
Absolutely! Feel free to reach out with your question here.
Customer Service
Orders and Shipping
Where can I buy Rethunk Junk?
You can use our Store Locator to look for an authorized retailer near you. If you don't have one or don't have time to visit one, you can order directly from our website and we'll ship it right to you.
How long will it take for me to receive my order from your website?
Orders typically ship from our warehouse within 3 business days. Transport time will be dependent upon your location. We utilize USPS, UPS & FedEx for shipping - depending on order size and destination. Our system will send you an email with tracking information once your order is on the way.
What do I do if my product is damaged during shipping?
We are so sad when we hear about "paintastrophes" in shipping! Please reach out to us at customerservice@rethunkjunkbylaura.com and provide your order number, your name, a description of the problem and a photo of the box/products as received. Damage reports must be submitted within 48 hours of package delivery.
Ah! I just ordered but would like to change my order! What do I do?
We can't guarantee that we will be able to make changes to your submitted order, but we'll do our best to try. Please email customerservice@rethunkjunkbylaura.com and if we can apply the changes or additions, we will gladly help!
I changed my mind; how can I exchange or return my product?
To protect the quality of our products, we are not able to offer returns or exchanges. All sales are final.
Items purchased through a local retailer are subject to the seller's return policy.
Why does the color I received look different than it looked on the screen?
Colors do vary by screen and we cannot guarantee accurate representation of colors on monitors, phones or other devices.
Let's Talk
Interested in becoming a retailer?
Can I sell your paints in my store or booth?
Yes, you can! We are actively looking for retail partners across the United States. Learn more here.
I love to paint! Can I sell your products too?
We are always looking for new partners to sell our paint. Do you know that you can rent a booth in many market/vintage/antique stores and sell your painted furniture along with the paint? It's not hard to get started and we can help! Contact us if you'd like to learn more.
Where are the products made?
Rethunk Junk by Laura products are made in the USA.
Where does Rethunk Junk ship from?
All shipments are packed & shipped from our warehouse in Millen, Georgia.
What is the shelf life?
Unopened containers are good for 2 years. Once opened, we recommend cleaning the rim well and tightening the lid. Opened containers are good for a minimum of 6 months.
What is the minimum opening order for retailers?
We have a very reasonable opening order for retail partners! Complete an application here and we're happy to get you all that information!