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Magnetic Wall Paint: Turn Any Wall into a Magnet

June 1, 2026
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3 min read
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6 steps

Imagine a creating a wall that magnets can stick to. Now imagine painting that same wall any color you like. With Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer, that’s exactly what you can do! This step-by-step guide will show you how to create a functional magnetic wall while keeping it stylish and DIY-friendly.

Dan
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Quick Steps

For the “Just Tell Me How” Crowd

  1. Mix 1 part water to 4 parts hydrated lime until milky.
  2. Add alum salts, mix until dissolved.
  3. Add pigment (1:1 with alum), mix well.
  4. Apply in small X/crosshatch strokes — not long strokes.
  5. Don’t panic: It goes on dark, dries much lighter.
  6. Second coat if needed.
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Why Choose Magnetic Wall Paint?

Why Choose Magnetic Wall Paint?

Magnetic walls aren’t just for kids’ rooms—they’re practical, fun, and highly customizable:

  • Interactive spaces: Hang notes, photos, or art without nails.
  • Customizable: Paint over the magnetic primer with any latex color.
  • Strong hold: Rust-Oleum’s primer is now three times stronger than previous versions.
  • DIY-friendly: Easy to apply with minimal tools.

Perfect for kitchens, offices, playrooms, or feature walls, this product combines functionality with creativity.

Step 1: Prep Your Wall

Step 1: Prep Your Wall

  • Clean your wall to remove dust, dirt, or grease.
  • Repair any cracks or holes so the wall is smooth.
  • Lightly sand if necessary for better adhesion.

Step 2: Apply Magnetic Primer

Step 2: Apply Magnetic Primer

  1. Stir the Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer thoroughly.
  2. Apply (at least) two coats evenly across the wall using a roller or brush.
  3. Allow the first coat to dry fully before applying the second.

Note: This primer is nearly black, but it will be completely covered by your topcoat later.

Step 3: Test Your Wall

optional…but fun

  • Once the primer is dry, try sticking magnets to see if they hold (spoiler alert: they do).
  • Rust-Oleum’s primer is three times stronger than before, so even heavier magnets should stay in place.

Step 4: Paint Over the Magnetic Primer

Paint Over the Magnetic Primer

  • Apply any latex paint color over the magnetic primer.
  • Choose your favorite color to match your room design.
  • Two coats of paint usually suffice, but allow the primer to fully cure before painting.
  • Note: applying more than 2 coats of a top coat will lessen the strength of the magnetic connection.

At this point, not only will your wall look gorgeous, it will attract any magnets you have lying around!

Step 5: Enjoy Your Magnetic Wall

Enjoy Your Magnetic Wall

  • Use it to hang notes, photos, or decorative magnets.
  • Great for offices, kitchens, classrooms, or kids’ play areas.
  • Combine creativity with practicality for a functional, interactive space.

Pro Tips

Pro Tips

  • Test the strength of your magnets and the connection with the wall before hanging anything heavy, or delicate.  
  • Plan your wall layout before hanging magnets to keep it organized.
  • Let the primer cure fully before painting to maximize magnetic strength.

Why We Love Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer

Why We Love Rust-Oleum Magnetic Primer

This magnetic primer is a game-changer for home DIY projects. It allows you to create a functional wall without sacrificing style. Two coats of primer plus your choice of latex paint transforms any space into a magnetic hub for notes, photos, and creativity.

Ready to Make Your Wall Magnetic?

Watch the full tutorial here: Magnetic Wall Paint – That’s Right! and see how easy it is to combine function, style, and fun in your home.

The tools and materials we use in our projects.

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