Hey fellow eco-warriors! 
I’ve been on a mission to make my home as green as possible, and my latest project involves repainting my living room. The walls currently have an old oil-based finish, and I’m determined to switch to a natural paint. I’ve been eyeing Earthborn Claypaint for its eco-credentials and breathability. But, I’m a bit nervous about the prep work needed to ensure it adheres properly and lasts.
Has anyone here tackled a similar project? I’ve previously used Auro Natural Paints on fresh plaster with great results, but this is my first time dealing with oil-based finishes. I’ve read about the importance of thorough cleaning and possibly using a primer, but I’m curious about your experiences. Did you sand the walls first? Any specific primers you’d recommend that align with our eco-friendly goals?
Also, I’m all ears for any tips on application techniques that worked well for you. I’m aiming for a smooth finish but want to keep the process as low-VOC and environmentally friendly as possible. Let’s share our stories and help each other out! What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them? Looking forward to your insights!
Hey @EcoPainter88, I’ve been down this road before! Switching from oil-based to natural paint can be a bit daunting, but it’s totally doable with the right prep. I used Earthborn Claypaint over an old oil-based finish in my kitchen. The key is in the preparation. I thoroughly cleaned the walls with a sugar soap solution to remove any grease or dirt. Then, I lightly sanded the surface to help the new paint adhere better. For a primer, I went with EcoPro Primer which is specifically designed for this kind of transition and has great eco-credentials. It worked like a charm!
3 Likes
Thanks @GreenThumb99! That’s super helpful. I was a bit worried about the sanding part, but it sounds like it’s necessary for a good finish. I’ll definitely look into EcoPro Primer. Did you find the Earthborn Claypaint easy to apply after priming?
1 Like
Absolutely, @EcoPainter88! The Earthborn Claypaint went on smoothly after priming. I used a roller for the walls and a brush for the edges and corners. It took two coats to get the perfect coverage, but the finish was worth it. The paint has a lovely matte finish that really brings out the texture of the walls. Just make sure to let each coat dry thoroughly before applying the next one.
2 Likes
I’ve also used Earthborn Claypaint but over a different surface. Just wanted to chime in and say that their customer service is fantastic if you have any specific questions about application or prep. They’re really knowledgeable about their products and eco-friendly practices.
1 Like
I haven’t used Earthborn Claypaint yet, but I’m planning to for my next project. This thread has been super informative! Does anyone have tips on choosing the right color? I’m aiming for something that complements natural light.
@DIYQueen, I found that lighter shades of Earthborn Claypaint really enhance natural light, making the room feel more spacious and airy. They have a great range of eco-friendly colors. I’d recommend getting some samples to test in your space at different times of the day.
2 Likes
Hey @EcoPainter88, I’ve been down this road before! Switching from oil-based to natural paint can be a bit daunting, but it’s totally doable with the right prep. I used Earthborn Claypaint over an old oil-based finish in my kitchen. The key is in the preparation. I thoroughly cleaned the walls with a sugar soap solution to remove any grease or dirt. Then, I lightly sanded the surface to help the new paint adhere better. For a primer, I went with EcoPro Primer which is specifically designed for this kind of transition and has great eco-credentials. It worked like a charm!
5 Likes
I went a slightly different route when I tackled this project. Instead of sanding, I used a deglosser to prep the oil-based paint. It’s a bit less labor-intensive and worked well for me. I also used Earthborn Claypaint and found that applying it with a roller gave me the smoothest finish. Just make sure to ventilate the room well, even though the VOC levels are low, it’s still important to keep the air moving.
1 Like
Interesting to hear about the deglosser approach. I hadn’t considered that. I stuck with sanding because I wanted to be extra sure the new paint would stick. I used Auro Natural Paints and their primer, which is also eco-friendly. The key for me was patience, making sure each coat was completely dry before adding the next. It took a bit longer, but the results were worth it.
2 Likes
I think the most important thing is to not rush the process, no matter which method you choose. I made the mistake of not waiting long enough between coats the first time I tried this, and the paint didn’t adhere properly. Had to strip it all off and start over. Second time around, I took my time, used Earthborn Claypaint with their recommended primer, and it turned out great. Also, don’t forget to test a small area first to see how it reacts with your walls.
2 Likes
I’ve been down this road before, and honestly, the key is in the prep. I used a gentle sugar soap solution to clean the walls thoroughly before applying any paint. It’s eco-friendly and does a great job of removing grease and grime. For the primer, I went with a natural, low-VOC option that was recommended by the paint manufacturer. It worked like a charm with the Earthborn Claypaint. Just make sure you give it enough time to dry completely.
5 Likes
Sanding is a must if you want that smooth finish, especially over oil-based paints. I used a fine-grit sandpaper to lightly scuff the surface, which helps the new paint adhere better. It’s a bit of extra work, but totally worth it in the end. Also, I found that using a high-quality natural bristle brush made a big difference in the application. It gave me a much smoother finish than a roller.
3 Likes
I didn’t sand my walls and regretted it. The paint didn’t adhere as well as I hoped, and I ended up with some peeling issues down the line. So, I’d definitely recommend sanding, even if it’s just a light scuff. Also, I used a natural primer from a brand called Ecos, which worked really well with the Earthborn Claypaint. Their customer service was super helpful when I had questions about the drying times.
4 Likes
Application technique is crucial. I found that applying the paint in thin, even coats worked best. It might take a bit longer, but it prevents drips and ensures a more uniform finish. I also made sure to ventilate the room well, even though the paint is low-VOC. It just makes the whole process more pleasant. And yeah, Earthborn’s customer service is top-notch. They really know their stuff.
2 Likes
Choosing the right color for natural light can be tricky but so rewarding. I went with a soft, warm beige from Earthborn Claypaint for my north-facing room, and it transformed the space. It really depends on the mood you’re aiming for. Cooler tones can make the room feel more spacious, while warmer tones add coziness. Maybe grab some samples and see how they change throughout the day?
3 Likes
I’ve been down the natural paint route before, and my advice is to not underestimate the power of a good primer, especially over oil-based finishes. I used Eco Primer from Auro, and it worked wonders. It’s all about creating the right base. As for colors, I found that lighter shades reflect natural light beautifully, making the room feel brighter and more open.
5 Likes
I’m all about those earthy tones that mimic nature. When I redid my living room, I chose a sage green that changes with the light throughout the day. It’s like having a new room every few hours. And yes, definitely sand and clean the walls well before applying any natural paint. It makes a huge difference in how the paint adheres and lasts.
2 Likes
For those diving into natural paints, don’t forget about the finish. A matte finish can really enhance the depth of color and works well with natural light, giving a soft, diffused look. I went with a matte finish in a light grey for my space, and it’s stunning at sunset. Also, testing colors at different times of the day is key to finding the perfect shade.