Hey fellow green living enthusiasts! 
I’ve recently taken the plunge into using natural paints for my home renovation project, and I’m absolutely loving the vibe it’s bringing to my space. I decided to go with a mineral pigment lime wash for my living room walls, inspired by its breathable qualities and the beautiful, matte finish it offers. I used EcoLime’s range, which I chose for their commitment to sustainability and the purity of their ingredients.
However, I’ve hit a bit of a snag. After applying the lime wash, I noticed some areas have an uneven color distribution. It’s not drastically off, but it’s enough to catch the eye and disrupt the overall aesthetic. I followed the instructions to the letter, mixing the pigment thoroughly and applying it with a natural bristle brush in thin, even layers. The walls were properly prepared, cleaned, and slightly dampened before application, as recommended.
I’m curious if any of you have faced similar issues with lime wash or other natural paints. Could it be something in my application technique, or perhaps the nature of the lime wash itself? I’ve previously used BioShield’s clay paint in another room with great success, but I’m still getting the hang of lime wash. Any tips on how to even out the color without starting from scratch would be greatly appreciated. Also, if you have any favorite brands or techniques for achieving a consistent finish with lime wash, I’d love to hear about them!
Looking forward to your insights and experiences. Let’s make our homes beautiful and eco-friendly together! 
Hey @EcoPainterJane, I’ve had a similar experience with EcoLime’s lime wash in my kitchen. The key for me was to ensure the lime wash was mixed thoroughly before each application. Sometimes, the pigment can settle, leading to uneven color. Also, applying a second thin coat after the first has dried can help even out the color. It’s a bit of trial and error, but patience pays off!
3 Likes
I’ve been using BioShield’s clay paint and EcoLime’s lime wash for years. One thing I’ve learned is that the absorbency of the wall can affect the outcome. If some areas are more porous, they might absorb the lime wash differently, causing unevenness. Maybe try a primer or a sealer on those spots before reapplying?
2 Likes
@GreenThumb88 Thanks for the tip! I did mix it thoroughly, but I’ll try applying a second coat to see if that helps. It’s reassuring to know others have faced similar issues and found solutions.
1 Like
I’ve found that the type of brush you use can make a big difference with lime wash. Natural bristle brushes are great, but sometimes a high-quality synthetic brush can give you more control over the application, leading to a more even finish. Also, working in smaller sections helps manage the drying time, which can affect color consistency.
4 Likes
@NatureLover23 That’s an interesting point about wall absorbency. I didn’t consider that. I’ll look into primers or sealers for the more porous areas. Thanks for the advice!
2 Likes
Just wanted to chime in and say how much I admire everyone’s commitment to eco-friendly living. It’s inspiring to see such detailed discussions on making our homes more sustainable. Keep up the great work, everyone!
5 Likes
@DIYQueen I’ll definitely try working in smaller sections and maybe experiment with different brushes. It’s all about finding what works best for the space, right? Thanks for the suggestions!
3 Likes
Hey, I’ve been using lime wash for a while now and I totally get what you’re saying about the uneven color. One thing that worked for me was using a spray bottle to lightly mist the wall before applying the second coat. It helps the lime wash to blend better. Also, make sure you’re working in consistent lighting so you can see the color distribution as you go.
2 Likes
I had a similar issue and found that the type of brush makes a big difference. I switched to a wider, softer brush and it helped spread the lime wash more evenly. Also, don’t rush the drying time between coats. Giving it enough time to dry properly can really help with the final look.
2 Likes
Mixing is key, as someone already mentioned. I use a drill with a paint mixer attachment to make sure the pigment is fully integrated. Another tip is to apply the lime wash in a crisscross pattern rather than straight up and down. It helps avoid streaks and gives a more uniform finish.
I’ve found that the temperature and humidity can really affect how lime wash dries and looks. If it’s too hot or too dry, the lime wash can dry too quickly and cause unevenness. Try to work in cooler, more humid conditions if possible. Also, a second coat can do wonders for evening out the color.
4 Likes
It’s interesting to hear everyone’s tips. I’ve been experimenting with adding a bit of natural pigment to the lime wash to adjust the color slightly. It’s a bit of a trial and error process, but it can help achieve a more consistent look. Also, make sure to clean your tools thoroughly between coats to avoid any contamination that could affect the color.
5 Likes
I’ve had a similar issue with lime wash before. What worked for me was applying a second coat, but this time, I made sure to mix the pigment even more thoroughly and applied it in a crisscross pattern. It helped even out the color a lot. Maybe give that a try before going the primer route?
1 Like
Interesting point about the absorbency affecting the outcome. I wonder if the type of brush used could also play a role. I switched to a synthetic brush for my second attempt and noticed a more even application. Not sure if it’s just in my head, but might be worth experimenting with different brushes.
4 Likes
I’ve been using lime wash for a while now, and I’ve found that the key is in the preparation of the wall. If the wall isn’t uniformly damp, the lime wash can dry at different rates, leading to uneven color. I use a spray bottle to lightly mist the wall before applying the wash. It’s a bit more work, but the results are worth it.
4 Likes
Hey there! I’ve had a similar issue with lime wash before. What worked for me was applying a second, very thin coat, almost like a mist, focusing on the lighter areas. It’s tricky because you don’t want to overdo it and end up with a patchy look. Also, make sure your brush strokes are consistent in direction. It might take a bit of practice, but you’ll get the hang of it. EcoLime is a great choice, by the way. Their pigments are top-notch.
2 Likes
I’ve been using lime wash for years, and uneven color can be a common issue, especially with darker pigments. One thing that’s helped me is to mix a bit more pigment into the lime wash for the second coat, but not too much. It’s all about finding that balance. Also, applying the wash in natural light can help you see the color distribution better. Keep at it, and you’ll achieve that perfect, even finish. It’s all part of the learning curve with natural paints.
1 Like