www.ultimatehandyman.co.uk

I used this for the first time this week and it was excellent.

I have always used Polycell flaked paste but I would be reluctant to go back to that after experiencing how easy the ready mixed is to use.

I have just under half a tub left. Does anyone know how long I can store this for and it still be usable?

Excellent value paste, used half a tub last november, sealed it well and used the rest in april this year still like new.

I have used this three times since my original post, on three very different types of wallpaper, and it has been excellent on all of them. It is my go-to paste from now on.

Flake paste is rubbish these days. Solvite is OK for size, but not much else. I simply wouldn't trust a finished paper with it.

Nothing bar RM these days, and with so many different flavours, there's one for every sort of paper. These papers that recommend an all-purpose paste, go on far better with a good RM adhesive. It gives peace of mind, better results, and in the greater scheme of things doesn't add a great deal to the price of a job.

in the greater scheme of things doesn't add a great deal to the price of a job

... and saves time with less mess and no need for a separate paste bucket.

I haven't tried it for a size yet. Do they tend to mix with water quite easily, and what % water to paste would you recommend?

I don't often use RM for sizing as it's a wee bit dear for that, but Solvite thinned down works well as a size. I'd say Solvite at regular strength, then reduced to around 50-60% dilution from that should be OK. It's a balance of getting it thin enough to penetrate the surface and reduce porosity, but not too thin that it's watery.

Ive been using the Wickes one for years now..it was better value than it is now...they keep bumping the price up!!...but its still my go to paste.