Cissing: This is a tem used to describe the condition arising when a gloss enamel or emulsion paint is partially disrupted so that a homogeneous coating cannot be retained. It develops shortly after application as small depression or holes in the film at points where there is poor adhesion. Cissing is liable to occur when a varnish or enamel paint is applied to an old varnished or painted surface without prior cleaning or rubbing down. The presence of grease or oil on a surface will cause an emulsion paint, gloss or varnish to ciss if the surface contamination is not previously removed. Cissing can also occur when overcoating an undercoat or paint which has been allowed to harden so much that the surface is impervious to the finishing coat or, where the previous coating has been thinned with an inferior grade of white spirit/turpentine, due to the amount of mineral oil it contains. Remedy: If cissing is experienced and cannot be corrected by vigorous use of the brush, as may sometimes be possible, the newly applied coat should be washed off immediately with white spirit and the surfaces allowed to dry. Then thoroughly clean the surface, if necessary using abrasive paper, wipe clean and allow to dry before repainting. Waterproof abrasive paper should be used if the coating has been allowed to harden.