Thistle Decorators
Trader Categories and Services
Painter & Decorators, Paint & Coatings, Painting Contractor, Interior and Exterior Decorator, Window Painting & Pointing, Wood Stain, Wallpaper Hanging, Wallpapers & Wall Coverings, Heritage & Conservation Renovation | Repairs, House Painter, Property Maintenance, Office Refurbishment, Paint & Varnish StrippingTrade Associations
Business Information
THISTLE DECORATORS - ESTABLISHED 1984, TRUSTED EVER SINCE
We specialise in high-quality residential painting and decorating and are known for reliable service, skilled workmanship and long-lasting results.
SERVICES WE PROVIDE:
- Interior painting and decorating
- Wallpaper hanging and feature walls
- Wood staining and varnishing
- Furniture painting and upcycling
- Paint effects and specialist finishes
- Colour matching and product advice
- Restoration and refurbishment work
- Insurance repair decorating (detailed estimates provided)
QUALITY ASSURANCE: We are committed to achieving high standards on every project. Our work is carried out by trained and qualified decorators using professional preparation methods, premium materials and manufacturer-approved techniques.
MANUFACTURER SPECIFICATION SURVEYS: Where appropriate, we arrange a full specification survey directly with the product manufacturer at no additional cost. This ensures the correct coating systems and application methods are used for maximum durability.
PREMIUM MATERIALS: We use high-quality, trade-grade materials only. Full product specifications and technical data sheets can be provided with your estimate on request.
TRAINED & CERTIFIED TEAM: Our decorators hold recognised industry qualifications including
- NVQ, CSCS and SCORE accreditation
- IPAF, PASMA and IOSH certification
- First Aid training
- Disclosure Scotland verification
This ensures safe, compliant and professional working practices at all times.
PROFESSIONAL PROCESSES: Every job includes structured preparation, safe working practices and clean methods. We use Mirka LEROS and DEROS dustless sanding systems where possible to reduce mess and produce a superior finish.
Method Statements and Risk Assessments are in place for relevant works.
GUARANTEES: All workmanship is covered by a 2-year guarantee, with manufacturer warranties of up to 10 years depending on the products used.
INSURANCE WORK: If your property has been damaged and requires decorating as part of an insurance claim, we can provide:
- Detailed written estimates
- Professional advice on reinstatement
- Communication with insurers if required
- High-quality repairs to restore your home
WHY CHOOSE THISTLE DECORATORS
- Established decorating company trading since 1984
- Skilled and fully certified workforce
- Full £5M public and employer liability insurance
- Uniformed staff and branded vehicles
- Physical office at 22–26 Academy Street, Edinburgh
- Long-standing reputation for reliability and professionalism
- Commitment to safe working, clear communication and consistent results
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
Choosing Thistle Decorators means choosing a well-established, fully insured and professionally run company with a strong track record. Our focus is on quality, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction, ensuring your decorating work is completed to a high standard and built to last.
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4.8 out of 5 based on
36 reviews.
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Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1 - £1000
Ratings
Review Comments
Would hire Dave time and time again for any work done in my house! Did a smashing job painting our living room media wall, our full dining room panelling painted and the plastering in our kitchen. Very professional and good quality paints and products.
Lauren grieve
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Very pleased with the quality of the job from start to finish. So easy to deal with. Very friendly and considerate decorating team.
Lloyd Evans
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
I had a really awful experience with Thistle Decorating.
Hired for a large complex wallpapering and painting job but they contracted out the wallpapering work without telling me. The workmanship was awful: paper stained from being thrown on a dirty floor, poor cuts, poor alignment, plaster visible through gaps and it's already peeling off the wall. The requirement for all paper to be hung using a laser level was clearly stated in the quote, but the sub contractor was unaware of this and unwilling to accept that requirement.
The painting wasn't great either — areas with visible drips in the gloss and woodwork that wasn’t prepped properly, leaving a rough, chewy finish. Again, use of LED lights was stated in the quote but not used.
Handling of my complaint was poor, with the Director refusing to come and look at the work himself. Inspection by Contract Manager confirmed the work was “Amateur Hour” and not to any reasonable standard but insisted it must be the sub contractor that comes back to rectify their work. I would never have knowingly hired the sub contractor and based on their quality of work was unwilling to allow them back to try again.
I deliberately hired a company from Scotland's Trusted Trader for peace of mind, and specifically Thistle because of their experience of working on period homes and their uniformed, Disclosure verified staff. Instead I got an unknown and unverified b2b firm with no experience in this type of work and no idea of the terms agreed.
All this plus 9 weeks of unnecessary stress and hassle which was only resolved once Trusted Trader stepped in to mediate. Grateful for their support in bringing this matter to a close.
Hired for a large complex wallpapering and painting job but they contracted out the wallpapering work without telling me. The workmanship was awful: paper stained from being thrown on a dirty floor, poor cuts, poor alignment, plaster visible through gaps and it's already peeling off the wall. The requirement for all paper to be hung using a laser level was clearly stated in the quote, but the sub contractor was unaware of this and unwilling to accept that requirement.
The painting wasn't great either — areas with visible drips in the gloss and woodwork that wasn’t prepped properly, leaving a rough, chewy finish. Again, use of LED lights was stated in the quote but not used.
Handling of my complaint was poor, with the Director refusing to come and look at the work himself. Inspection by Contract Manager confirmed the work was “Amateur Hour” and not to any reasonable standard but insisted it must be the sub contractor that comes back to rectify their work. I would never have knowingly hired the sub contractor and based on their quality of work was unwilling to allow them back to try again.
I deliberately hired a company from Scotland's Trusted Trader for peace of mind, and specifically Thistle because of their experience of working on period homes and their uniformed, Disclosure verified staff. Instead I got an unknown and unverified b2b firm with no experience in this type of work and no idea of the terms agreed.
All this plus 9 weeks of unnecessary stress and hassle which was only resolved once Trusted Trader stepped in to mediate. Grateful for their support in bringing this matter to a close.
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Complete redecoration of new flat - my dates changed & Thistle did everything they could to fit in with my new moving dates. Excellent colour matching & wall finish is first class. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
This was my first time using Thistle Decorators and I will certainly use them again. What I liked: I had a meeting with the Contracts Manager within 24 hours of my initial enquiry, I received knowledgeable advice about paint finishes for particular issues, a quote arrived 3 days later, all queries to the main office were dealt with comprehensively and swiftly, all quotes were clear, detailed and transparent and work was scheduled withing 2 months. When it came to execution, my decorator Armando, both knowledgeable and experienced, worked reliably, meticulously, with great attention to detail and with minimal disruption to me, to deliver a quality finish on an old property. While my work was a smallish job, (external & internal timber window frames + front door) at no time was I made to feel it was any less important, and David, the Contracts Manager followed up at the end, not just to review the work for himself, but to ensure my satisfaction. In addition to painting work, I also had my mahogany bannister re-sanded and oiled resulting in a beautiful finish. This is a totally professional organisation that I recommend without hesitation.
Frances Cutts
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1 - £1000
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Review Comments
Gregg was polite and conscientious. He was very professional about his work and was also prompt in arriving when he said he would. He did a splendid job. Highly recommended!
Angus Gow
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1 - £1000
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Review Comments
The work done for me was the external painting of several window-frames, as part of the decoration of the development in which I live. I have been very impressed by the the two painters, who worked hard and with excellent results; furthermore they were always friendly and helpful. All the neighbours with whom I have spoken are very pleased with the outcome, which has transformed the appearance of our property.
I would strongly recommend this company.
I would strongly recommend this company.
David
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
On this occasion ( my third project from Thistle ) the work was to paint and paper two bedrooms
They have been highly professional in every aspect of this process, from initial contact, through the quoting element, to the booking and the final result is excellent
The workmanship from the Thistle team is superb and the quality of the finish is exceptional.
Disruption was minimal and the job was completed on time. I would have no hesitation in recommending Thistle - and particularly Maddie, their staff member, who completed this project so well.
They have been highly professional in every aspect of this process, from initial contact, through the quoting element, to the booking and the final result is excellent
The workmanship from the Thistle team is superb and the quality of the finish is exceptional.
Disruption was minimal and the job was completed on time. I would have no hesitation in recommending Thistle - and particularly Maddie, their staff member, who completed this project so well.
Martin SC
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £5001 - £25,000
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Review Comments
I had the walls and bannister painted definitely recommend thistle decorators absolutely delighted with the work
Anne christison
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1 - £1000
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Review Comments
We had one wall wallpapered and the quality and professionalism was fantastic. Highly recommended.
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £5001 - £25,000
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Review Comments
We have used Thistle Decorators for years and are always pleased with the quality and value of the work.
Excellent contractor!
Excellent contractor!
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
Ratings
Review Comments
I couldn’t be more pleased with the work from Thistle Decorators. From start to finish, they were professional, knowledgeable, and clearly very experienced in their craft. They took the time to recommend the right type of paint for each surface, which made a noticeable difference in the final finish—it looks absolutely flawless.
What really stood out was how clean and tidy they kept everything throughout the job. They worked efficiently without ever cutting corners, and the attention to detail was excellent. On top of that, communication was smooth and reliable the whole way through, which made the entire process stress-free.
I would highly recommend Thistle Decorators to anyone looking for high-quality work.
What really stood out was how clean and tidy they kept everything throughout the job. They worked efficiently without ever cutting corners, and the attention to detail was excellent. On top of that, communication was smooth and reliable the whole way through, which made the entire process stress-free.
I would highly recommend Thistle Decorators to anyone looking for high-quality work.
Julie McCran
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
The job entailed re mastic around all seven windows , unseal six upper sashes painted shut , overhaul & paint all external windows from inside
( fourth & fifth floors ) Not an easy job .
The painter arrived on time & worked solidly all day . Took great care to lay cloths and wrap items with plastic sheeting , so the flat remained as clean & dust free as possible . All this took longer than expected , so in total it was six days .
I can heartily recommend Thistle Decorators . The painter did a great job .
( fourth & fifth floors ) Not an easy job .
The painter arrived on time & worked solidly all day . Took great care to lay cloths and wrap items with plastic sheeting , so the flat remained as clean & dust free as possible . All this took longer than expected , so in total it was six days .
I can heartily recommend Thistle Decorators . The painter did a great job .
Lois C
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1 - £1000
Ratings
Review Comments
Seemed to do a very good job and the painter Greg was friendly and approachable
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Thistle Decorators redecorated our shop on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh. Excellent standard of work and value for money. Mark, MD of Thistle, was extremely helpful and communicated well. Grieg, the lead decorator couldn't have been more helpful or conscientious. Thank you for a job carried out to the highest professional standard.
Glen Bennett
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
We had a loose newel post on the staircase which needed fixed and at the same time we took the opportunity to to have the banister sanded and oiled the uprights repainted and the stairs sanded and painted .
Thistle provided an excellent decorator who came and worked tirelessly to bring our staircase back to life .The joiner fixed the newel post and overall an absolute superb job .The decorator in particular worked so hard and the result shows the effort put in
The timescale was as quoted and there was little necessity to change our daily routine
Superb
Highly recommended
Thistle provided an excellent decorator who came and worked tirelessly to bring our staircase back to life .The joiner fixed the newel post and overall an absolute superb job .The decorator in particular worked so hard and the result shows the effort put in
The timescale was as quoted and there was little necessity to change our daily routine
Superb
Highly recommended
Heather Marshall
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Great advice, service and standard of work. Highly recommended
Ben Krolak-Robertson
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Kitchen decoration. Thistle Decorators were excellent. Very professional. Michelle did a first class job. Delighted with the finished work. Would certainly use Thistle Decorators again in the future. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to friends/family.
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
Ratings
Review Comments
Excellent job at very competitive rate
Stephen
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
I had my whole flat painted which took 2 weeks to complete. I was very happy with my painter, Greig who was very professional and showed attention to detail. Greig was very hardworking and got on with the job, and such a well-mannered chap. David who overseen the works was courteous and nothing was too much trouble. On the first day, David attended and introduced me to Greig which I thought was a rather nice touch. I am delighted with the end result and recommend Thistle Decorators.
Karen
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £5001 - £25,000
Ratings
Review Comments
Total exterior to property and internal hall and stairwell painted. Water damage to ceiling repaired and made good.
impressive result from meticulous preparation and clean and efficient application of painting surface.
Completely satisfactory and professional service provided. Have recommended to others.
impressive result from meticulous preparation and clean and efficient application of painting surface.
Completely satisfactory and professional service provided. Have recommended to others.
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Outside windows and facade painted.The work was carried out to a high standard and very happy,would definitely use again.
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Entrance and stair to Church Hall decorated. Kept to estimated time and left place clean and tidy. Good preperation and standard of finish
Tranent Parish Church
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Anyone that was in touch with me Debra ,Karen were first class keeping me informed
when work would go ahead .Bertie the painter decorator was first class always punctual and explained everything that he was doing .His finished work was excellent and I would recommend Bertie and T D S to
anyone needing decoration work.
when work would go ahead .Bertie the painter decorator was first class always punctual and explained everything that he was doing .His finished work was excellent and I would recommend Bertie and T D S to
anyone needing decoration work.
Bill and Gina Watt
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
I needed the entrance stair to my home stripped, plaster repaired, liner paper hung and painted. I contacted Trinity Decorating Services, who were quick to come out to do an estimate, and provided a highly competitive quote, which I was happy to accept. The work was carried out on spec, with no fuss and to a very high standard. I was kept informed of progress throughout, and a thorough clean-up was carried out at the end of each day.
Trinity Decorating Services provide a thoroughly professional service, courteous, punctual, and always friendly. I have recommended them to friends and family, and will definitely be in contact for any future decorating work.
Trinity Decorating Services provide a thoroughly professional service, courteous, punctual, and always friendly. I have recommended them to friends and family, and will definitely be in contact for any future decorating work.
Doug Campbell
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
Ratings
Review Comments
Excellent job painting our sash exterior windows ahead of the winter. Professional company I would recommend and use again.
Michael Law
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Our lounge was wallpapered and also some remedial paintwork where there was water damage in new extension.
The repair to water damage is first class and the damage no longer visible.
We are delighted with the lounge and excellent standard of work.
The repair to water damage is first class and the damage no longer visible.
We are delighted with the lounge and excellent standard of work.
Barbara Wood
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Brilliant job - thanks Vince
Robert Sandison
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £5001 - £25,000
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Review Comments
Trinity undertook the painting of complicated woodwork outside my listed property. They were very professional throughout the process and I was kept fully informed about the scheduling of the work all the way through. The end result is excellent and I wouldn't hesitate to use them again.
Kerry Harper
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
I couldn't be more thrilled with the exceptional services provided by the team of painters from Trinity who transformed my house. From start to finish, their professionalism, attention to detail, and passion for their painting is truly commendable. They went above and beyond to ensure that every corner of my home was painted to perfection. Their friendly demeanour and willingness to accommodate my requests made the entire painting process a breeze.
I wholeheartedly recommend these painters to anyone in need of painting services. Their dedication to excellence, professionalism, and outstanding results make them stand out within the painting industry. Thank you for bringing my vision to life and making my house a place I am proud to call home!
I wholeheartedly recommend these painters to anyone in need of painting services. Their dedication to excellence, professionalism, and outstanding results make them stand out within the painting industry. Thank you for bringing my vision to life and making my house a place I am proud to call home!
Hayley
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
5*
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Flawless Wallpaper Installation
Trinity Decorating recently transformed our home with impeccable wallpaper installation. From the insightful consultation to project completion, their commitment to aesthetic excellence shone through. The team's knowledge made the selection process a breeze, ensuring a perfect blend of style and functionality.
During installation, Trinity Decorating showcased exceptional expertise, applying the wallpaper with precision and care. Their attention to detail elevated the overall aesthetic of our space. Clear communication, professionalism, and courtesy throughout the project added to the positive experience.
For those seeking a decorating company that combines skill with a keen eye for design, Trinity Decorating is the ideal choice. We're thrilled with the results and highly recommend their services for flawless wallpaper installation.
Trinity Decorating recently transformed our home with impeccable wallpaper installation. From the insightful consultation to project completion, their commitment to aesthetic excellence shone through. The team's knowledge made the selection process a breeze, ensuring a perfect blend of style and functionality.
During installation, Trinity Decorating showcased exceptional expertise, applying the wallpaper with precision and care. Their attention to detail elevated the overall aesthetic of our space. Clear communication, professionalism, and courtesy throughout the project added to the positive experience.
For those seeking a decorating company that combines skill with a keen eye for design, Trinity Decorating is the ideal choice. We're thrilled with the results and highly recommend their services for flawless wallpaper installation.
Claire Livingston
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £1001 - £5000
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Review Comments
Not only did trinity deliver, they got involved and donated their services for free for my NET ZERO HOME community project! They are an example to all local companies, I can’t thank them enough !
Mark
Mark
Mark Glasgow
Value of Products/Services or Work Performed: £5001 - £25,000
Ratings
Review Comments
Excellent finish on our communal stairwell redecoration. The tradesmen were quiet, polite, extremely tidy and worked nearly every hour of the week.
Would highly recommend
Would highly recommend
Gavin




















Our Contracts Manager began the normal remedial process by assessing the concerns, and we intended to carry out the necessary works. Unfortunately, illness within the team caused delays, which we understand was frustrating for the customer. However, these delays should not be interpreted as a refusal to resolve the issues.
When direct discussions became difficult, we sought independent mediation through the Scottish Decorators Federation. Unfortunately, we were ultimately not given the opportunity to complete the remedial works, so we could not demonstrate the finished result.
We also believe the wider context is important. We inherited a project where other contractors had previously carried out work, and during our involvement, the customer initially gave positive feedback about the preparation and painting. Concerns were raised later, and we accepted that legitimate issues needed to be addressed.
We would also like to clarify that Trading Standards did not mediate the dispute. Edinburgh Trusted Trader operates in partnership with Trading Standards, but Trading Standards were not directly involved in mediating the matter.
We accept that issues can arise on projects, but our approach has always been to assess concerns, take responsibility where appropriate and put things right. We are disappointed that we were ultimately unable to complete this process on this occasion.