Hey everyone! I’ve recently embarked on a journey to make my home more eco-friendly, starting with the walls. I’m looking to repaint my living room and want to make sure I’m choosing a non-toxic paint that’s good for the planet. I’ve heard a lot about natural paints but feel a bit overwhelmed by all the options out there.
I started by researching different types of natural paints and came across brands like Earthborn and Auro, which seem to have a good reputation for being eco-conscious. I’m particularly interested in their clay paints because of their breathability and natural ingredients. However, I’m curious about how they perform on different surfaces. My living room walls are currently painted with a standard emulsion, and I’m wondering if I need to do any special preparation before applying a natural paint.
Has anyone here made the switch to natural paints? What was your experience like, especially if you’ve used clay paints? Did you find any challenges with application or durability? Also, how do you balance the environmental benefits with the performance and finish of the paint? I’d love to hear your thoughts and any tips you might have for a beginner like me!
Welcome to the eco-friendly journey, @EcoPainter88! Starting with natural paints is a great move. I’ve used Earthborn clay paints in my home and found them to be excellent for breathability and the overall finish. One tip I can share is to ensure your walls are clean and free from grease or dust before application. This helps the natural paint adhere better. Also, consider the color you choose, as natural paints can have a slightly different hue compared to conventional paints due to their pigments.
3 Likes
I switched to Auro natural paints last year and haven’t looked back! The application was smoother than I expected, and the finish is beautiful. One thing to note is that natural paints might require more coats than conventional paints for full coverage, so plan accordingly. Also, drying times can be longer, but it’s worth the wait for the eco-benefits and the unique, matte finish they provide.
2 Likes
Thanks for the tips, @GreenThumb99! I hadn’t considered the color difference due to natural pigments. Do you have any advice on choosing colors that work well with natural paints? Also, did you find that the clay paint helped with regulating humidity in your home?
1 Like
@SunnyDays47, I’m curious about the durability of Auro paints. Have you noticed any fading or wear over time, especially in high-traffic areas? I’m considering them for my hallway but worried about maintenance.
1 Like
I’ve been experimenting with different natural paints for a while now, and one thing I’ve learned is the importance of surface preparation. For walls previously painted with standard emulsion, a light sanding and a primer suitable for natural paints can make a big difference in how well the new paint adheres and lasts. Also, don’t forget to test the paint on a small section of the wall first to see how it looks and feels once dry.
4 Likes
Great advice, @BreezeBlocker56! I’ll definitely do a test patch. Do you have any recommendations for primers that work well with natural paints?
2 Likes
@EcoPainter88, I’ve had good results with Earthborn’s primer. It’s specifically designed for their range of natural paints and helps ensure a smooth, durable finish. Just make sure to follow the application instructions carefully for the best results.
3 Likes
Hey @EcoPainter88, I’ve been down the natural paint road too. Earthborn is solid, but don’t sleep on Biofa. Their stuff is top-notch for eco-conscious painting. Prep is key, like the other user said, but also, give the walls a light sanding. It helps the natural paint stick better. And yeah, the colors can be a bit different, but that’s part of the charm, right? Adds character to your space.
4 Likes
I went with Auro for my kitchen and it’s been a game changer. The smell, or lack thereof, is what sold me. No more headaches from paint fumes. Application was smooth, but I did need an extra coat compared to regular paint. Worth it for the peace of mind and the environment though. Just make sure you’ve got good ventilation while painting, natural doesn’t mean you can skip on safety.
3 Likes
Clay paints are awesome, but they do have a learning curve. I used Earthborn in my bedroom and the finish is beautiful, very matte and soft. Durability has been good so far, but I did notice it’s not as wipeable as conventional paints. So maybe think twice if you’ve got kids or pets that might test the walls. Also, the drying time can be longer, so plan your painting schedule accordingly.
Just a heads up, natural paints can be pricier upfront, but think of it as an investment. I went with Biofa for my living room and the difference in air quality was noticeable. Plus, the colors are so rich and deep, it really elevates the space. If you’re worried about cost, maybe start with one room and see how you like it before committing to the whole house.
3 Likes
I’ve experimented with a few brands, and my takeaway is that application tools matter a lot with natural paints. I found that using a high-quality natural bristle brush made a huge difference in the finish. Also, don’t rush the drying process. It’s tempting to crank up the heat or use fans, but letting it dry naturally ensures the best result. Patience is key with these paints.
4 Likes
One thing I haven’t seen mentioned yet is the importance of primer with natural paints. I used a natural primer from Auro before applying their paint, and it made all the difference in coverage and durability. It’s an extra step, but it ensures your paint job lasts longer and looks better. Also, consider the lighting in your room when choosing colors. Natural paints can look different under various light conditions.
5 Likes
I’ve been using Earthborn paints for a couple of years now, and I’m really happy with the results. The colors are vibrant, and the paint itself is easy to work with. I did find that preparation is key, though. Make sure your walls are clean and dry before you start. I didn’t have to do anything special beyond that, and the paint adhered well. The only downside is the cost, but for me, the environmental benefits outweigh that.
3 Likes
I tried Auro for a small project in my home and was impressed by the quality. The application was straightforward, and the finish was exactly what I was looking for. I agree that natural paints might need more coats, but the end result is worth it. I also noticed that the smell was almost non-existent, which was a big plus for me. It’s great to see more people considering eco-friendly options for their homes.
3 Likes
I totally get where you’re coming from with the eco-friendly paint journey. I switched to natural paints a couple of years ago and haven’t looked back. The key for me was finding a brand that balanced eco-friendliness with performance. I went with Earthborn for my living room and was really happy with the finish. Just make sure you prep your walls well, like the previous comment mentioned. It makes all the difference.
3 Likes
Honestly, I tried going the natural paint route but ended up going back to conventional paints. The natural ones just didn’t hold up as well in high-traffic areas of my home. I admire your commitment though. Maybe the technology has improved since I last tried. Let us know how it goes!
4 Likes
I’ve been using Auro’s clay paints in my home and love the matte finish they give. It’s true, preparation is crucial. I found that using a primer designed for natural paints helped a lot with adhesion. Also, the color depth is amazing. It’s worth the extra effort for the eco benefits and the unique look.
5 Likes
It’s great to see more people interested in natural paints. I haven’t tried clay paints yet, but I’ve had good experiences with milk paint in smaller projects. It’s super eco-friendly and gives a beautiful, vintage look. Maybe something to consider for accent walls or furniture?