Hey fellow green living enthusiasts! 
I’ve recently been diving into the world of natural paints for a little outdoor furniture project of mine. I’m torn between using lime wash and milk paint, especially since I want something that not only looks good but also stands up to the elements. I’ve used EcoLime for a small indoor project before and loved its breathability and the way it ages gracefully. On the other hand, I’ve heard great things about Real Milk Paint Co. for its durability and the rich, matte finish it provides.
My main concern is how these paints hold up outdoors. I live in a pretty rainy area, so moisture resistance is a big factor for me. I’m curious if anyone has experience with either of these paints on outdoor furniture? Specifically, how do they fare against rain and UV exposure over time? Also, any tips on surface preparation for outdoor pieces would be greatly appreciated. I’m all about minimizing my environmental footprint, so I’m leaning towards the most sustainable option that doesn’t compromise on durability.
Would love to hear your thoughts, experiences, or any other eco-friendly paint recommendations you might have for outdoor use. Let’s share our knowledge and help each other make more sustainable choices! 
Hey EcoPainterJane! 
I’ve used both EcoLime and Real Milk Paint Co. for various projects, and I must say, your concern about durability is spot on. For outdoor furniture, especially in rainy climates, Real Milk Paint Co. has been a game-changer for me. Its durability against moisture is impressive, and it maintains its color well under UV exposure. However, don’t underestimate the charm of EcoLime; it does require more maintenance but offers a unique, evolving aesthetic that many find appealing. For surface prep, I always recommend a thorough cleaning and possibly a light sanding to ensure the best adhesion. Good luck with your project!
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I’m all about Real Milk Paint Co. for outdoor projects. The key is in the topcoat; I use a natural hemp oil finish over it, which really locks in the color and adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. It’s held up beautifully on my garden bench for over two years now, with minimal fading and no peeling. Just my two cents!
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@GreenThumb88 Thanks for the detailed response! It’s great to hear from someone with firsthand experience. I’m leaning towards Real Milk Paint Co. for this project, especially with the added tip about surface prep. Do you have any specific recommendations for maintaining EcoLime finishes outdoors, or is it more of a high-maintenance option in your experience?
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Just a quick note to say that I’ve had mixed results with EcoLime outdoors. It’s beautiful, yes, but in my rainy area, it required touch-ups more often than I’d like. Maybe it’s just my application technique, but something to consider!
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@EcoPainterJane Maintaining EcoLime outdoors can indeed be a bit more work. I’ve found that applying a natural wax or oil finish can help protect it from the elements, but it still may require annual touch-ups, especially in areas with heavy rain or intense sun. It’s all about balancing the aesthetic you’re going for with the level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to. For a more durable, low-maintenance option, Real Milk Paint Co. with a protective topcoat is hard to beat.
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Has anyone tried mixing EcoLime and Real Milk Paint Co. for outdoor projects? I’m curious if combining them could offer the best of both worlds - the durability of milk paint with the unique finish of lime wash. Or is that a recipe for disaster? 
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@NatureLover101 That’s an interesting idea! I haven’t heard of anyone mixing them, but now I’m curious too. Maybe someone with more experience in paint chemistry could chime in? It could be a fun experiment, though I’d probably test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
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I’ve been using Real Milk Paint Co. for my outdoor furniture for a couple of years now, and I can vouch for its durability. It’s held up really well against both rain and sun. The key for me was the surface prep. I made sure to clean and sand the furniture properly before applying the paint. It’s a bit of work, but definitely worth it for the longevity. Also, the matte finish it gives is just beautiful and really complements the natural look of the wood.
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Interesting to hear about Real Milk Paint Co. I’ve been on the fence about trying it, but I’m a bit concerned about the maintenance. I used EcoLime on a garden bench last year, and while I love the aesthetic it brings, it does require a bit more upkeep, especially in rainy weather. I’m curious, for those who’ve used both, how does the maintenance compare? Also, has anyone tried sealing the paint with a natural sealant to improve durability?
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I’ve had a different experience with Real Milk Paint Co. on my outdoor chairs. Even with a hemp oil topcoat, I noticed some fading after just one summer. Maybe it’s the intense sun in my area, but I’m considering switching to something more UV resistant next time.
Interesting to hear about the hemp oil finish. I went with a beeswax finish over my lime wash, and it’s been holding up surprisingly well against the rain. It’s been about a year, and there’s no sign of peeling or water damage. Might be worth considering if you’re in a wet climate.
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I’m a big fan of lime wash for its breathability, especially on older wood that needs to release moisture. I haven’t tried it outdoors yet, but your positive experience with beeswax has me intrigued. Do you think beeswax would work as well on lime wash for UV protection?
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I’ve been using EcoLime for a few outdoor projects and love the natural look it gives. However, I do find that it needs more frequent touch-ups compared to synthetic paints. For me, the trade-off is worth it for the eco-friendly aspect and the unique finish.
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Has anyone tried mixing their own natural paints? I’ve been experimenting with clay and natural pigments for a custom color. It’s a bit of a process, but the results are rewarding, and it’s as eco-friendly as it gets. Just curious if others have gone down this route for outdoor furniture.
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For those concerned about durability, have you considered the type of wood you’re painting? I’ve found that harder woods like teak or cedar, when properly prepared, can significantly extend the life of any paint, natural or not. It might be something to think about if you’re starting a new project.
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Mixing EcoLime and Real Milk Paint Co. sounds like an interesting experiment, but I’d be cautious. Lime wash is known for its breathability and natural look, while milk paint is praised for its durability. Combining them might dilute these properties. Maybe test on a small, inconspicuous area first? Also, consider the type of wood and its treatment before painting. Some woods might not take well to certain paint mixtures.
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I’ve used both separately for outdoor projects, and each has its pros and cons. EcoLime fades beautifully over time but might need more frequent touch-ups in rainy climates. Real Milk Paint Co. holds up better against moisture but can be a bit more challenging to apply evenly. Mixing them could be a gamble. Have you thought about using a natural oil or wax finish over the paint for extra protection?
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That’s a bold idea! I haven’t tried mixing them, but I’m all for innovation. Just make sure to document your process and results. It could be a game-changer for eco-friendly outdoor furniture finishes. Also, don’t forget about the importance of primer and proper surface prep. It can make or break the durability of your paint job, regardless of the type of paint you use.
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