Can eco-friendly paints really match the color range of conventional paints?

Hey fellow eco-warriors! :herb: I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I’ve hit a bit of a snag. I’m all about minimizing my environmental footprint, but I’m also a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to color. So, I’ve been wondering: can eco-friendly paints really offer the same vibrant and diverse color range as conventional paints?

I’ve been experimenting with a few brands, like Earthborn Paints and Auro, and I must say, I’m impressed with their commitment to sustainability and low VOCs. However, when it comes to matching the exact shade I envisioned for my living room, I’m finding the options a bit limited. Has anyone else experienced this? I’m curious about your experiences with natural paint brands and their color ranges.

Also, for those who’ve successfully used eco-friendly paints, how did you find the application process? Were there any surfaces that didn’t take well to the paint? I’m particularly interested in how these paints perform on older walls that might have a bit more character (and imperfections) than newer constructions.

Let’s share our stories and tips! Whether it’s a brand that surprised you with its color range or a DIY hack that helped you achieve the perfect shade with natural paints, I’d love to hear about it. Together, we can navigate the colorful world of eco-friendly home renovations! :art:

Great topic, @GreenThumbJenny! I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for a few years now, and I’ve found their color range to be quite impressive for eco-friendly options. They have a palette that’s inspired by nature, which I love. However, I agree that when you’re looking for a very specific shade, it can be a bit challenging. One tip I have is to use their color mixing service. It’s a bit of a process, but it allows for more customization. Also, regarding application, I’ve found that these paints work beautifully on older walls. They tend to breathe better, which is great for preventing moisture issues.

3 Likes

I’ve had a similar experience with Auro. Their colors are lovely, but sometimes not exactly what I had in mind. I ended up mixing a couple of their paints to get closer to my desired shade. It was a fun experiment! As for surfaces, I painted an old brick wall in my kitchen, and the result was stunning. The paint adhered well and brought out the texture of the bricks beautifully.

2 Likes

@EcoPainterDave, thanks for the tip about the color mixing service! I didn’t know Earthborn Paints offered that. I’ll definitely look into it. It’s reassuring to hear that they work well on older walls too. My house is over a century old, so that’s a big plus for me.

1 Like

I’ve tried a few different eco-friendly paint brands, and while I love the idea, I’ve found the color range to be a bit limiting. However, I recently discovered Biofa, and I was pleasantly surprised by their selection. They have some really vibrant colors that you wouldn’t expect from an eco-friendly brand. Application-wise, I’ve used them on both plaster and wood with great results. Just make sure to prep the surface well!

4 Likes

@DIYQueen, Biofa sounds intriguing! I’ll have to check them out. Thanks for the recommendation. It’s always exciting to find a brand that offers something a bit different.

2 Likes

I think it’s all about managing expectations. Eco-friendly paints are amazing for the environment, but they might not always have the exact shade you’re dreaming of. That said, I’ve found that getting creative with layering and finishes can really help achieve a unique look. Plus, it’s all part of the fun of DIY, right?

1 Like

@ColorMeHappy, you’re absolutely right! It’s about the journey as much as the destination. I’m definitely learning to embrace the imperfections and get creative with what’s available. It’s all part of the eco-friendly lifestyle!

3 Likes

I totally get where you’re coming from with the color matching. I’ve been using Ecos Paints and while their palette is pretty extensive, there’s always that one shade that’s just not quite right. I found that adding a bit of white or black paint from their range helped me tweak the colors to my liking. It’s a bit of trial and error, but it’s worth it for the eco-friendly aspect.

4 Likes

Interesting point about the older walls. I used Biofa on some vintage plaster walls and was pleasantly surprised by how well it covered. The texture came through beautifully, and the colors were rich and deep. It’s a bit pricier, but for the quality and the environmental benefits, I think it’s worth it.

2 Likes

Mixing paints to get the right shade sounds like a fun project! I haven’t tried that yet, but I’ve been using Green Planet Paints and their color matching service was a game changer for me. They were able to create a custom color that matched my vision perfectly. It’s great to see eco-friendly options catching up in terms of customization.

5 Likes

I’ve been experimenting with Milk Paint for furniture and smaller projects. It’s a bit different from conventional paints, but the colors are vibrant and it’s super eco-friendly. The application process is unique, but once you get the hang of it, the results are stunning. It’s definitely worth considering for those looking for an alternative to traditional paints.

5 Likes

I totally get where you’re coming from with the color range issue. It’s a common hurdle when switching to eco-friendly options. I’ve had some luck with Ecos Paints, though. They offer a decent range of colors, and I found their customer service super helpful when I was trying to match a specific shade. It’s all about finding the right brand that aligns with your needs.

4 Likes

Interesting point about Biofa! I haven’t tried them yet, but I’m always on the lookout for new brands to test out. How do you find their durability compared to conventional paints? I’ve noticed some eco-friendly paints don’t hold up as well over time, especially in high-traffic areas.

I’ve been using Lullaby Paints for my nursery project, and I was pleasantly surprised by their color options. They have this beautiful, soft pastel range that’s perfect for a baby’s room. Application was smooth, and the finish is really nice. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re into softer tones.

1 Like

I think the key with eco-friendly paints is managing expectations. They might not always match the exact shade you have in mind, but the trade-off for a healthier environment is worth it. I’ve started mixing my own colors using natural pigments, and it’s been a fun, albeit messy, experiment. It’s not for everyone, but it’s an option if you’re feeling adventurous.

5 Likes

Has anyone tried The Real Milk Paint Co.? I’ve heard they have a wide range of colors and are super eco-friendly. I’m curious about their application process, though. Is it similar to conventional paints, or is there a learning curve?

I’ve been experimenting with Green Planet Paints, and I’m really impressed with their color vibrancy. They have some bold, saturated colors that I didn’t expect from an eco-friendly brand. The application was straightforward, and the paint covered well. It’s definitely a brand I’d recommend if you’re looking for something with a bit more punch.

1 Like

Totally get where you’re coming from with the color range issue. I’ve been using Eco Paints and while their palette isn’t as vast as some conventional brands, I’ve found that mixing their base colors can get you pretty close to what you’re after. It’s a bit of trial and error, but it’s rewarding when you nail it.

3 Likes

I’ve had a similar experience with Biofa. Their colors are beautiful but definitely more muted than what you’d find in a standard paint. I ended up embracing the softer tones and it actually gave my space a really unique, calming vibe. Sometimes, going with the flow leads to the best outcomes.

1 Like