Blog 3: Finish, Decorate & Start Using Your Magnetic Wall

1. Apply Your Topcoat

Your topcoat is the regular wall paint that gives your wall its final color and finish. Before you start this step, make sure you’ve waited at least 24 hours after applying your magnetic coats. This gives the iron layer enough time to fully dry and lock into place.

Use thin, even coats

For the strongest magnetic performance:

• Apply 1–2 thin coats of your topcoat

• Let each coat dry completely

• Roll just as you would on a standard painted wall

Paint types to avoid

You can use almost any wall paint you like: matte, satin, eggshell, semi-gloss, etc. The only thing we recommend avoiding is heavy textured paint (like sanded, stone, or raised-texture finishes). These thick products can create a rough surface that reduces magnet contact.

Normal paints are perfectly fine and will cover your magnetic layer beautifully.

2. Final Cure Time

Once your topcoat is on, the wall needs a little time to fully dry before you start hanging anything.

Check the dry-time instructions on your specific paint; every brand is a little different.
If you’re unsure, waiting 24 hours is the safest option.

This ensures the paint has hardened enough so magnets won’t leave marks or impressions.

3. Start Decorating Your Magnetic Wall

This is the fun part: your wall is now fully functional and ready to use.

Magnet Strength Guidelines

If you painted with the recommended amount of primer and additive:

• 1x1 Peel & Stick Mount: holds up to 2 lbs

• 1x1 Permanent Mount: holds up to 2.5 lbs

• 1x2 Permanent Mount: holds up to 5 lbs

More iron = more strength.
Fewer coats = slightly less strength.
It’s that simple.

Tips for Best Results

• Prevent sliding
If an item slides instead of staying in place, it usually comes down to one of two things:

1. The item is too heavy for the magnet you're using
Try switching to a stronger magnet or using multiple mounts to spread out the weight.

2. The item sticks out too far from the wall
If an item protrudes more than 3 inches, gravity creates more leverage and makes sliding more likely. Stick to low-profile items for the best hold.

• Use multiple magnets for heavier items
Distribute the weight evenly along the back of the item.

• Don’t hang priceless items
No heirlooms, antiques, or irreplaceable pieces; just to be safe.

4. Care & Maintenance

Your wall should last for years with simple upkeep.

Cleaning

• Use a damp cloth, then immediately dry with a clean rag

• Avoid soaking the wall

• Do not use abrasive scrubbers or harsh cleaners

Rust Repair (rare, but possible)

If moisture ever penetrates the paint:

1. Lightly sand the affected spot

2. Wipe away dust

3. Let it dry completely

4. Apply a thin coat of topcoat paint

That’s all it takes.

Touch-Ups

If the wall gets scuffed or dinged, just treat it like any other wall; touch up with your topcoat paint.

5. Get Inspired

Your magnetic wall can be as simple or creative as you want:

• A rotating art wall for kids

• A photo gallery

• A command center for schedules & reminders

• A studio wall for tools, materials, or inspiration

• A fully flexible office setup

Whatever you choose, it’s built to adapt and grow with your space.

6. Wrap-Up

Congrats! Your Hooked on Paint wall is fully finished and ready to use.
You’ve completed all three stages:

1. Planning & choosing your products

2. Prepping, mixing, and applying your magnetic coats

3. Finishing, decorating, and maintaining your wall

If you have questions about magnets, paint, troubleshooting, or anything else, check out our FAQ page for quick answers.

And if you create a great magnetic wall, we’d love to see it.
Share photos or tag us on Instagram @hookedonpaintofficial so we can feature your project!