FAQs Do I need to use a primer when applying the Smart Whiteboard Paint in White? Yes, a water-based primer, like our Smart White Primer, needs to be applied to the surface before applying the Smart Whiteboard Paint. A primer helps give the surface a smooth finish and acts to seal the surface. This means that when you apply your dry erase paint on a surface that has been primed, the properties within our whiteboard paint will stay on the wall rather than being absorbed into the wall. Can Smart Whiteboard Paint be applied around people? Yes, it is completely safe to apply the dry erase paint around adults and children as it is certified as an extremely low VOC and low odour product. Learn more about the low VOC levels of our specialist coatings here.