Interview with Aron (A. Prime Finish): expert in creating the ultimate mirror finish

Can you tell us how you got started in painting and what drew you to the craft?

I actually started from an art and design background. After losing my dad at a young age, I went into creative studies, but eventually I moved into construction to make a living. At one point I was asked to decorate a space, and because of my artistic background I just stepped into it. That was really the moment everything started. From there I trained myself further while working, and it slowly became my profession.

How has your career evolved, and what moments shaped you most as a professional?

I’ve been in the trade for around 17 years now. I started in general construction and gradually worked my way into high-end finishing and specialist decorative work. A lot of my development came from working for different companies and later on luxury, bespoke projects. That’s where my standards were really shaped. Today, my biggest motivation is my children—they keep me focused and driven. In 2023 I started my own company so I could fully work according to my own standards.

What does true craftsmanship and quality mean to you in your work?

For me, craftsmanship is all about consistency. Every job has to meet the same high standard, no matter the size or budget of the project. Quality comes from doing everything properly—preparation, application, and finishing. And you never stop learning or improving if you want to stay at a high level.

How would you describe your personal style or signature as a painter?

My style is very clean, controlled, and precise. I work a lot by hand because I want full control over the finish. I aim for very smooth, refined results—often a mirror-like finish, especially on high-gloss surfaces. My work is quite structured and consistent, and that’s also what people recognise me for.

Can you walk us through your process from preparation to final finish on a project?

I always start by fully protecting and setting up the space properly. Everything is covered and I create a clean, organised working area. Then comes preparation: sanding, filling, repairing—working through different stages until everything is perfectly smooth, often up to 240–320 grit. After that I assess the client’s situation and choose the right materials for the job. I apply a strong base coat and sand it back to create a perfect foundation. The finish is built up in three to four layers. First layers may be slightly thinned for better flow, and then I build opacity. The final stage is hand-finishing, or “tipping off,” to remove any marks and achieve a flawless surface.

How do you choose the right materials and tools for each job? Do you have a favorite Staalmeester product?

I choose everything based on the project and the result I want to achieve. My main tools are the One series 1050 laying off brushes, especially sizes 50 and 75—that’s what I use most of the time. I also use round brushes for edges, oval brushes for versatility, and smaller detail brushes when needed. I often work with multiple brushes in my hand at once so I can switch quickly between applying and finishing. Maintenance is also key—keeping brushes properly cleaned makes a huge difference in performance.

What role do Staalmeester brushes play in achieving a high-end result?

They play a major role, especially in the finishing stages. The softness and control of the brushes allow me to lay off the paint perfectly without leaving marks. That’s essential when you’re working towards high-gloss or mirror finishes. For me, they’re a critical part of achieving that final high-end result.

What challenges have you faced in your career, and what did they teach you?

One of the biggest challenges has been managing client expectations—especially when people want both high quality and fast turnaround times. That taught me to be very clear about my standards and position myself properly. Now I attract the right clients because they know exactly what level I deliver. I also learned how important the right tools and preparation are—if you cut corners, it always shows in the end result.

How do you stay inspired and continue developing your skills?

I stay inspired by constantly learning and pushing myself into new techniques and materials. I follow trends, work with designers, and try to put myself in situations where I have to grow. Big and complex projects also keep me developing, because they force you to combine everything—design, technique, and execution.

What advice would you give to painters who want to reach a high level in the industry?

Consistency is everything. Be honest about what you can deliver, and never compromise on your standard. Always work at your level, not under pressure from time or clients. Keep improving, keep learning, and treat every job as your reputation—because in the end, you’re only as good as your last project.