Hey everyone! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I thought it’d be great to share some insights and hear your experiences too. I started with a small room to test out Earthborn Paints, known for their eco-friendly credentials, and I was genuinely impressed by the quality and the lack of that harsh chemical smell we’re all too familiar with.
What really got me curious was understanding what goes into these paints. From what I’ve gathered, natural paints often use ingredients like clay, chalk, and natural pigments. But I’m still wrapping my head around how these ingredients affect the paint’s performance, especially on different surfaces. For instance, I used it on a previously painted wall, and the coverage was fantastic, but I’m wondering how it would fare on raw wood or plaster.
I’d love to hear from you all! Have you tried any natural paint brands? How did you find the application process? And most importantly, what’s your go-to resource for understanding the ingredients and their environmental impact? Let’s share our knowledge and make our homes a bit greener, one wall at a time! 
Great topic, @EcoPainterJane! I’ve been using Auro Paints for a while now, and I’m really impressed with their transparency about ingredients. They use plant-based binders and natural pigments, which not only makes the paint eco-friendly but also gives it a unique depth of color. Application-wise, I found it a bit tricky at first on raw wood, but adding a natural primer made a huge difference. For anyone starting out, I’d recommend checking out their website for detailed ingredient lists and environmental impact assessments.
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Thanks for the tip, @GreenThumb88! I’ve heard about Auro Paints but haven’t tried them yet. The idea of using a natural primer is intriguing. Did you find that it affected the drying time at all? Also, how does the finish hold up over time, especially in high-traffic areas?
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I’m just starting my journey with natural paints, and this thread is super helpful! I’m curious, though, about the difference in coverage between natural paints and conventional ones. Has anyone noticed a significant difference? I’m planning to paint my living room and want to make sure I get it right the first time.
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@SunnyDaysAhead, in my experience, natural paints can require an extra coat for full coverage, especially if you’re transitioning from a darker to a lighter color. However, the difference isn’t drastic, and the benefits to the environment and indoor air quality far outweigh the minor inconvenience. Plus, the finish is so rich and vibrant, it’s worth the effort!
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I’ve been experimenting with Eco Paints and Biofa, and I must say, the learning curve was a bit steep at first. The key is in the preparation of the surface. Natural paints adhere differently than conventional ones, so taking the time to properly clean and, if necessary, sand the surface beforehand is crucial. Also, ventilation is important during application, even though the smell is much less offensive.
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@NatureLover101, that’s a great point about surface preparation! I hadn’t considered how much more important it might be with natural paints. Do you have any specific tips for dealing with previously painted walls? I’m planning to tackle my kitchen next, and it’s currently covered in a glossy paint that I’m a bit nervous about.
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Just wanted to chime in and say how much I appreciate this discussion! I’ve been on the fence about switching to natural paints, but hearing about everyone’s experiences is really encouraging. I’m especially interested in the aspect of indoor air quality. Has anyone noticed a difference in how the room feels after painting with natural paints?
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Hey @EcoPainterJane, your post got me thinking about the drying times of natural paints. I’ve noticed that with brands like Earthborn, the drying time can be a bit longer than conventional paints. Has anyone else experienced this? I’m curious if it’s a common trait across all natural paints or just specific brands. Also, does anyone know if the longer drying time affects the paint’s durability or finish in the long run?
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I’ve been experimenting with Livos Paints recently, and I must say, the application process was smoother than I expected. They claim to use only natural oils and resins, which supposedly enhance the paint’s breathability. This is crucial for older homes with moisture issues. @EcoPainterJane, have you considered the breathability aspect in your project? It might be worth looking into, especially if you’re dealing with historic or older buildings. Also, does anyone have tips on maintaining the vibrancy of natural paint colors over time?
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I’ve been using Auro for a while now, and I totally get what you’re saying about the preparation part. It’s a bit more work, but the finish is so worth it. I found that using a primer specifically designed for natural paints made a huge difference, especially on raw wood. It’s all about patience and letting each layer dry properly. Have you tried any specific primers with Eco Paints or Biofa?
That’s interesting about the surface prep. I went with Livos for my kitchen cabinets and didn’t do much beyond a basic clean. They turned out great, but I wonder if I missed out on an even better finish by not sanding. Do you think the type of wood affects how well the natural paint adheres? I’m considering redoing my living room furniture and want to get it right this time.
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I’m just starting to explore natural paints, and your comment about ventilation caught my attention. I live in a small apartment, so airflow is a bit of a challenge. How long do you usually wait before it’s safe to hang out in a freshly painted room? Also, has anyone tried mixing their own natural paints? I’ve seen some recipes online using linseed oil and natural pigments, but I’m not sure if it’s worth the effort.
Totally get where you’re coming from with the indoor air quality concern. After switching to natural paints, I noticed the rooms just feel fresher. It’s like the walls can breathe, you know? No more headaches or that stuffy feeling after a day of painting. Definitely worth the switch for that alone.
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I’ve been using natural paints for a couple of years now, and the difference in application is noticeable. They tend to have a thicker consistency, which can be a bit tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, the coverage is amazing. Plus, the colors are so vibrant and true to the sample swatches. It’s a game-changer for sure.
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The environmental impact was a big factor for me choosing natural paints. I found this great website that breaks down the ingredients and their sources. It’s fascinating to see how sustainable some of these brands are, from sourcing to packaging. It really makes you think about the footprint of conventional paints.
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