Scratch Everything
Frequently Asked Questions

I have forced myself to contradict myself in order to avoid conforming to my own taste.
- Marcel Duchamp

What is Scratch Everything?
We are a small, independent business based in Austin. We paint original, expressive designs on wood furniture that transform your dull, prosaic pieces into functional, distinctive art. We use eco-friendly milk paint.

Can you paint any kind of furniture?
We prefer wood furniture. Milk paint requires a porous surface; wood furniture is optimal, although there are special treatments that can help adhesion to other surfaces. We will happily discuss different options with you at your request. In unusual cases, we can also use eco-friendly acrylics or gauche paints.

Do you make your own furniture?
No. We encourage you to provide your own selections, or we can purchase them for you. If you are in the area, we invite you to come tour our gallery in Austin and view our current stock. You can also visit our Gallery page online.

NO Art 123

What do you mean by eco-friendly? Isn't all paint toxic?
Milk paint does not emit any toxins inherent to other paints, known as VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds). Most conventional acrylic and latex paints emit hazardous toxins for approximately five years after they dry. Milk paint, however, is safe even for the curious mouths of babies and small children. Our topcoats are non-toxic, as well.

Why are the colors different than acrylic/latex paints?
The pigments come from the natural world and originate from the soil. Modern acrylic colors are plastic and uniform. Milk paint colors possess a variegated, rich, radiant texture and presence that echo antiquity and are immediately felt.

Is it waterproof?
Milk paint is a water-borne and breathable paint that dries quickly through evaporation and fully "cures" in 6 months. Protect fresh pieces from direct moisture to prevent water spots. When fully dried, it adheres like cement and will not wash off. Milk paint does not chip, crack, or fade like acrylic and latex paints.

Do prices vary for the same category of furniture?
It depends on whether Scratch Everything or the customer provides the furniture, and also on the size and complexity of each piece.

How long will it take to receive my furniture once I place an order?
Typically 1-2 weeks for custom pieces if you live in the Austin or surrounding areas, depending on the size and complexity of the order. For shipping custom pieces, add a week. Existing stock can be shipped immediately.

Do you deliver or do we pick it up?
We do provide delivery in the Austin and surrounding area if that is your preference.

Do you ship your completed pieces?
We now ship our products within the United States. Shipping costs are based on the customer's location. Optional insurance is available upon request.

How do we place an order?
Go to the Contact Us page. Every order is a custom order, unless you would like to purchase from our stock. We encourage you to come to our site and view our gallery of completed pieces. You can also view a variety of our pieces on our website.

Where are you located?
We are located in northeast Austin.