Farrow & Ball - Elephant's Breath - 750 ml - Full Gloss

A warm mid grey. This warm and contemporary grey is renowned for its characterful paint name, orig...

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This guide is for interior designers, homeowners, and DIY enthusiasts looking to add a sophisticated, warm grey to their projects. The key benefit is its versatile, characterful hue that adapts to different lighting conditions. A caveat is that the final appearance can shift significantly depending on the room's aspect and surrounding colours. Elephant's Breath is a warm mid-grey paint known for its character, featuring a subtle hint of magenta. It is available here in a durable Full Gloss finish, offering a high-shine, reflective surface perfect for woodwork, doors, and architectural details.

All features

ColourGrey
Model Part Number229
BrandFarrow & Ball

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What is the difference between Elephant's Breath and French Gray?

Elephant's Breath is a warm mid-grey with a hint of magenta, reading as uplifting. French Gray is a cooler, more muted grey with a slight green undertone.

Can I use this Full Gloss paint on walls?

No, Farrow & Ball Full Gloss is specifically designed for woodwork, doors, and furniture. For walls, consider their Estate Emulsion or Modern Emulsion finishes.

How many coats of Full Gloss are recommended?

Two coats are generally recommended for Full Gloss to achieve a rich, durable, and high-shine finish.

What is the best way to clean Full Gloss painted surfaces?

Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth and a mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing.

Does the colour change significantly in different lights?

Yes, Elephant's Breath is known for its chameleon-like quality. The hint of magenta can make it appear warmer and more pronounced in cooler light, and softer in warmer light.

What primer should I use with Elephant's Breath Full Gloss?

For a light colour like Elephant's Breath, use Farrow & Ball's Deep Abridged White & Light Tones Primer & Undercoat for the best adhesion and colour depth.

Is Full Gloss suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways?

Yes, the Full Gloss finish is very durable and hard-wearing, making it suitable for high-traffic areas on woodwork like doors and skirting boards.

Troubleshooting

Uneven finish or brush marks visible

Ensure the paint is thoroughly stirred. Use a high-quality brush and apply in smooth, even strokes. Avoid over-brushing. Ensure the surface is properly primed and sanded.

Paint not adhering well

Verify that the surface was properly prepared, cleaned, and primed. Ensure the correct primer and undercoat system was used for the surface type and colour family.

Colour appears different than expected

This is often due to lighting conditions. Consider the aspect of the room (north-facing vs. south-facing) and the colours of adjacent surfaces. Test a small area first if possible.

High gloss finish shows imperfections

Thorough surface preparation, including filling, sanding, and priming, is crucial for a flawless high-gloss finish. Ensure all dust is removed before painting.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Offers a unique and characterful mid-grey shade.
  • The subtle magenta undertone provides warmth and depth.
  • Highly reflective Full Gloss finish enhances architectural features.
  • Pairs harmoniously with a wide range of Farrow & Ball colours.
  • Suitable for accentuating woodwork, doors, and furniture.

Cons

  • Colour appearance can vary significantly with light and orientation.
  • Full Gloss finish can highlight imperfections on surfaces.
  • Requires careful surface preparation for optimal results in a high-shine finish.
  • May be too warm for spaces requiring a cooler grey aesthetic.
  • 750ml tin size may not be sufficient for large area projects.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Surface Preparation: For optimal results with the Full Gloss finish, ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and free from dust and grease. Fill any cracks or holes and sand smooth. Apply a suitable primer and undercoat (e.g., Farrow & Ball's Deep Abridged White & Light Tones Primer & Undercoat for light colours) to ensure good adhesion and a uniform finish.

Compatibility: This paint is suitable for interior woodwork, doors, skirting boards, and furniture. It is not intended for walls or ceilings.

Application: Apply two coats of Full Gloss for best results. Stir thoroughly before use. Use a good quality brush for a smooth finish. Avoid painting in very humid conditions or at extreme temperatures.

Care: Clean brushes and equipment immediately after use with white spirit. To clean painted surfaces, wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive scrubbing, as this can damage the high-shine finish.