Hey fellow eco-warriors! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I’m both excited and a bit overwhelmed by the options out there. I’ve been experimenting with Earthborn Paints and Auro, and I must say, the quality and finish are impressive. But here’s the kicker - when I compared the prices to conventional paints, I noticed a significant difference. This got me thinking: are these non-toxic, eco-friendly paints really cost-effective in the long run?
I’ve used Earthborn’s Claypaint on my living room walls, and the coverage was fantastic. It’s breathable, which is perfect for my old house, and the color depth is something else. On the other hand, Auro’s natural paints have been a dream for my wooden furniture, offering durability without the nasty fumes. But, considering the upfront cost, I’m curious about your experiences. Have you found ways to make these eco-friendly options more budget-friendly? Maybe through bulk buying or specific brands that offer a better price point without compromising on quality?
Also, I’m all ears for any tips on surface preparation and application techniques that have worked well for you with natural paints. Let’s share our stories and hacks to make our DIY projects not only beautiful but also kind to our planet. What’s your go-to non-toxic paint brand, and how do you justify the cost? Looking forward to your insights!
I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for a couple of years now, and I must say, the initial cost is higher, but the durability and the fact that it’s breathable make it worth it for me. My walls look fresh years later, and I haven’t had to repaint. That’s saving money in the long run!
3 Likes
Has anyone tried mixing their own natural paints? I’ve heard of using lime and natural pigments. It seems like it could be a more cost-effective option, but I’m not sure about the durability and coverage.
1 Like
@DIYQueen That’s an interesting idea! I haven’t tried making my own paint yet, but I’m curious about the process. If anyone has experience with this, I’d love to hear about the results and any tips you might have.
2 Likes
I’ve been using Auro for my furniture projects, and while the upfront cost is higher, the lack of fumes and the eco-friendly aspect make it worth it for me. Plus, the finish is so smooth and durable. It’s a win-win for my health and the planet!
4 Likes
@NatureLover101 I agree about Auro! I used it for my kids’ playroom furniture, and I feel so much better knowing they’re not exposed to harmful chemicals. The colors are vibrant, and it’s held up really well against the wear and tear.
3 Likes
I’ve found that buying in bulk can really help with the cost. Some brands offer discounts for larger quantities, which is great if you have a big project. Also, keep an eye out for sales and promotions. It’s a bit of work, but it can make eco-friendly paints more affordable.
@BudgetEco That’s a great tip! I’ll definitely look into bulk buying options for my next project. Thanks for sharing!
1 Like
I totally get where you’re coming from with the cost concern. I’ve been using Earthborn Paints too, and yeah, the upfront cost can be a bit of a shock. But like you said, the durability is unmatched. I painted my kitchen with it, and despite all the steam and cooking fumes, it still looks as good as new. That’s something you don’t get with cheaper paints. Plus, knowing it’s better for the environment makes the price tag a bit easier to swallow.
4 Likes
I’ve been on the fence about switching to non-toxic paints because of the cost, but hearing about your experience with Earthborn Paints is making me reconsider. I’m curious, though, have you tried any DIY techniques to stretch the paint further? I’ve heard that adding a bit of water can help with coverage, but I’m worried it might affect the quality. Also, does anyone know if these paints are easier to clean off brushes and rollers? That could be another way to save in the long run.
1 Like
Mixing your own natural paints sounds like a fun project! I’ve dabbled with lime and natural pigments for a small art project, and the results were pretty good. The coverage wasn’t as even as commercial paints, but the texture and depth of color were unique. Durability might be an issue for high-traffic areas, though. Maybe it’s worth experimenting on a piece of furniture or a small wall section first?
5 Likes
I’ve been curious about DIY natural paints too. The idea of customizing the color and knowing exactly what’s in it is appealing. But, I wonder about the time and effort it takes to mix them. If you’re doing a big project, it might not be the most time-efficient option. Plus, sourcing quality natural pigments can be tricky and sometimes expensive. Has anyone found a good supplier?
3 Likes
I tried making my own paint with lime and pigments for an outdoor bench. It was a learning curve, getting the consistency right. The bench looked great at first, but after a few months, the color faded more than I expected. Maybe it’s better suited for indoor projects or areas not exposed to the elements. Still, it’s a rewarding process if you’re into DIY and eco-friendly solutions.
5 Likes
The idea of mixing your own paints is intriguing, especially for those of us looking to reduce our environmental footprint. I haven’t tried it yet, but I’m considering it for my next project. I’ve heard that adding a bit of casein can improve durability. Does anyone have experience with that? Also, how do you ensure the color consistency across different batches?
1 Like
I totally get where you’re coming from with the cost concern. I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for a while now, and while the initial price tag made me hesitate, the longevity and the fact that I don’t need to repaint as often have made it worth it for me. Plus, the peace of mind knowing I’m not contributing to indoor air pollution is priceless. Have you considered the long-term savings from not having to repaint as frequently?
4 Likes
I’ve been on the fence about switching to non-toxic paints because of the cost, but your experience with Auro is convincing. I’m curious, though, about the color options. Do you find that the eco-friendly brands offer a wide enough range to satisfy your design needs? I’m all for sustainability, but I also don’t want to compromise on the aesthetic of my space.
5 Likes