Do I need to apply matt white undercoat to light coloured walls before painting a vibrant colour?

Hi, It'll depend a little bit on the quality of paint being used. Most decorators should be using the higher quality trade versions which cover better and 2 coats should cover those colours fine. Magnolia can be a pain at time to get that solid white cover in 2 coats but again paint quality can affect that greatly. Something like Dulux Trade Vinyl Matt in pure brilliant white colour will give you a good coverage in 2 coats. SOme of their retail paint in B&Q etc can be a little weak on coverage and you may end needing more coats which takes away the saving of "cheap paint". Vinyl Matt is currently on offer for 7.5L at Dulux Decorator Centres for £26.39 so we've grabbed some for future jobs as use it a lot. Hope that helps

Hi Courtney There is no need for undercoat on any of your walls unless there are stains or if the surface is rough or peeling - needing prep( sanding or filling). All of your painting work will need at least two even coats of paint for a nice finish. Dawn

No undercoat needed, just coat until satisfactory finish, Many thanks.

No need for any undercoat as you are going over light pastel colours. Two coats of a good trade paint would be sufficient. Hope that helps you. Regards Gary