Beginner question: What are the basics I need to know before switching to natural paints?

Hey everyone! :herb: I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints recently, inspired by my latest home renovation project. I’m transforming my living room and decided it’s the perfect opportunity to make the switch to more eco-friendly options. But, as a beginner, I’m a bit overwhelmed by all the choices and considerations. So, I thought I’d reach out to this knowledgeable community for some guidance.

First off, I’ve been eyeing Earthborn Paints for their claypaint range. It’s supposed to be breathable, which is great for the old walls in my house. I’ve also heard good things about Auro for their natural plant-based paints. Has anyone tried these brands? How do they compare in terms of application and finish?

I’m particularly curious about surface compatibility. My walls are a mix of plaster and drywall. Do natural paints adhere well to both? Also, I’m all about minimizing environmental impact, so any tips on sustainable application tools or techniques would be greatly appreciated.

Lastly, for those who’ve made the switch, what was your biggest challenge? And what’s one thing you wish you knew before starting? Looking forward to hearing your experiences and advice!

Welcome to the world of natural paints, @EcoPainterJane! :seedling: I’ve used Earthborn Paints for my kitchen and can vouch for their breathability and finish. Their claypaint is fantastic for older walls, as it allows moisture to escape, preventing mold and damp issues. For Auro, their plant-based paints are top-notch, especially if you’re looking for something with minimal environmental impact. Both brands have their merits, but it really comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your project.

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Hey @EcoPainterJane, great question about surface compatibility! I’ve applied natural paints on both plaster and drywall, and they adhere well to both, provided the surfaces are properly prepared. Make sure to clean and prime your walls beforehand for the best results. As for tools, I recommend using natural bristle brushes and rollers made from sustainable materials to keep your project eco-friendly.

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Thanks, @GreenThumb88! It’s reassuring to hear positive feedback about Earthborn Paints. I’m leaning towards giving their claypaint a try. Did you find the application process straightforward? Any tips for a first-timer?

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One thing I wish I knew before starting with natural paints is the importance of ventilation. Even though they’re eco-friendly, ensuring good airflow during and after application helps with drying and reduces any potential odors. Also, don’t rush the drying process; natural paints often take a bit longer to dry compared to conventional ones, but the wait is worth it!

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Thanks for the advice, @DIYDave! I’ll definitely look into sustainable tools. Do you have any specific brands you recommend for natural bristle brushes?

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Absolutely, @EcoPainterJane! The application is quite straightforward. Just make sure to stir the paint well before use, as natural pigments can settle. Applying two thin coats usually gives the best coverage and finish. Don’t worry if the first coat looks a bit patchy; the second coat will even everything out beautifully.

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@EcoPainterJane, I’ve had good experiences with Eco-Tools brushes. They’re made from sustainable bamboo and recycled materials, plus they’re super durable. Another brand to consider is Purdy, which offers some eco-friendly options as well.

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I made the switch to natural paints last year and haven’t looked back! The biggest challenge for me was adjusting to the longer drying times, but the environmental benefits and the unique finishes are totally worth it. One tip: always test your paint on a small section of the wall first to see how it looks in different lights.

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That’s a great tip, @NatureLover101! I’ll make sure to do a test patch. It’s encouraging to hear that the switch has been so positive for you. I’m excited to see the results in my own home!

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I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for a while now, and I’m really impressed with their claypaint. It’s super easy to apply, and the finish is matte but really rich. I used it on both plaster and drywall in my house, and it adhered perfectly. Just make sure you prep the walls well, like cleaning and maybe a light sanding. For tools, I went with bamboo brushes and they worked great. The biggest challenge for me was getting used to the different drying times compared to conventional paints.

Auro paints are fantastic, especially if you’re looking for something plant-based. I found their range to be a bit more limited in colors compared to Earthborn, but the quality is top-notch. Application was smooth, and the finish was durable. I used it in a high-traffic area, and it’s held up really well. Surface prep is key, though. I had to do a bit more work on my drywall to get it ready, but it was worth it. Eco-friendly tools are a must for me, so I went with recycled plastic rollers.

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Switching to natural paints was a game-changer for me. The biggest hurdle was the cost, honestly. They can be pricier than regular paints, but I think it’s worth it for the environmental benefits and the non-toxic aspect. I used both Earthborn and Auro, and each has its strengths. Earthborn is easier to find, but Auro has some unique colors. For tools, I found that natural bristle brushes gave the best finish. Just be patient with the drying times.

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I tried natural paints for the first time last year and was pleasantly surprised. The application process is a bit different, and you have to be more careful with the thickness of the paint. I used Earthborn on my plaster walls, and it covered really well. The color stayed true, which was a concern of mine. For tools, I recommend looking for ones with FSC certification to ensure they’re sustainably sourced. The challenge for me was the smell; it’s different but not unpleasant.

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I’ve experimented with a few natural paint brands, and I have to say, the results can vary. Earthborn is great for a consistent finish, but Auro offers deeper, more vibrant colors. Surface preparation is crucial, especially on older walls. I had to do some patching and priming before painting. As for tools, I found that using a combination of natural bristle brushes and eco-friendly rollers gave me the best results. The biggest thing I wish I knew earlier was to buy a bit more paint than I thought I needed, as natural paints can require more coats.

I’ve used Earthborn Paints in my kitchen and I’m really happy with the results. The claypaint does take a bit longer to dry, but the finish is beautiful and it feels good knowing it’s more eco-friendly. For tools, I just used regular brushes and rollers, but made sure to clean them thoroughly with soap and water after. It’s a bit more effort, but worth it for the environment.

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Auro paints are fantastic, especially if you’re into the whole natural vibe. I used them in my bedroom and the plant-based formula really does make a difference in air quality. Just a heads up, though, the color can look a bit different once it dries, so maybe test a small patch first. Also, yeah, ventilation is key. I kept the windows open for a couple of days just to be safe.

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Switching to natural paints was a game-changer for me. The biggest challenge was definitely the drying time. I’m used to quick-drying conventional paints, so I had to adjust my expectations. But honestly, the wait is worth it. The finish is so much more durable and the colors are richer. Plus, no nasty fumes to deal with.

I tried both Earthborn and Auro for different rooms. Earthborn’s claypaint is great for older walls because it’s so breathable. Auro’s plant-based paint has a really nice finish, but it’s a bit pricier. For application, I found that using a natural bristle brush gave the best results with both brands. Just make sure you have good ventilation, as others have mentioned.

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One thing I learned the hard way is that natural paints can be a bit more finicky with application. They don’t always cover as well on the first coat, so you might need to do a second coat. But, the upside is that they’re much easier to touch up later on. Also, investing in some good quality, eco-friendly brushes made a big difference in the application process.