DIY lime wash project: My journey and lessons learned

Hey everyone! :herb: I recently embarked on a DIY lime wash project for my living room walls, and I must say, it’s been quite the adventure. I chose lime wash because of its natural composition and the beautiful, matte finish it offers. I went with Earthborn Lime Wash, which I found to be incredibly eco-friendly, made from natural lime and mineral pigments.

Before this, I had experimented with a couple of eco-friendly paints, including Auro Clay Paint and Ecos Paints, both of which were great but didn’t quite give me the texture I was looking for. Applying the lime wash was a learning curve; it’s much thinner than regular paint and requires a specific technique to achieve that classic, weathered look. I found that it worked best on porous surfaces like the untreated plaster walls in my home.

One thing I’m still curious about is how lime wash holds up in different climates. I live in a relatively dry area, but I wonder about its durability in more humid environments. Also, has anyone tried mixing their own pigments for a custom color? I’d love to hear about your experiences and any tips you might have for a smoother application next time. Let’s share our stories and learn from each other’s lime wash journeys!

Great post, @EcoPainterJane! I’ve been considering lime wash for my kitchen walls but was hesitant about the application process. Your experience with Earthborn Lime Wash sounds promising. Did you find it easy to mix and apply, or were there any unexpected challenges?

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I’ve used Auro Clay Paint in the past and loved the natural look it gave my walls. However, I’m intrigued by the idea of lime wash for a more textured finish. @EcoPainterJane, how does the durability of lime wash compare to clay paint in your experience?

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@GreenThumbGary, thanks for your question! The application was definitely a learning curve. The key is to work in small sections and keep a wet edge to avoid lap marks. It’s thinner than regular paint, so it requires a bit of patience and practice. But once you get the hang of it, the results are stunning!

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@NatureLoverNina, lime wash has a unique charm with its matte finish and subtle texture. In terms of durability, it’s quite resilient, especially on porous surfaces. However, it might require more maintenance in high-traffic areas compared to clay paint. Regular touch-ups can help maintain its beauty over time.

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Has anyone tried mixing their own pigments with lime wash? I’m curious about creating custom colors but worried about the consistency and how it might affect the lime wash’s properties.

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@DIYDan, I’ve experimented with adding natural pigments to lime wash, and it’s definitely doable! The key is to use finely ground pigments and mix them thoroughly to avoid clumps. Start with small amounts to test the color and consistency. It’s a fun way to personalize your space!

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Living in a humid climate, I’m curious about how lime wash performs in such conditions. Does anyone have experience with this? I’m worried about mold or the finish not holding up well.

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@SunnySam, that’s a great question. Lime wash is naturally mold-resistant due to its high pH, which makes it a good option for humid climates. However, proper ventilation is key to maintaining its integrity. Regular maintenance and touch-ups can also help keep it looking fresh.

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Hey @EcoPainterJane, your project sounds awesome! I’ve been eyeing lime wash for a while now, especially for its eco-friendly vibe. About the application, did you use any special tools or brushes? I’ve heard that the type of brush can really affect the final look. Also, how many coats did you end up applying to get that perfect finish?

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Interesting read! I’m in a humid climate, so I’m curious about the durability aspect you mentioned. Has anyone tried sealing the lime wash with something to protect it from moisture? I’m thinking of giving it a go in my bathroom but worried it might not hold up. Also, @EcoPainterJane, did you notice any color changes as it dried? I’ve heard that can happen with lime wash.

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I’ve been using lime wash for a few years now, and I can say it’s pretty durable, even in more humid climates. The key is in the preparation of the wall and the application technique. I live in a coastal area, and my lime wash walls have held up beautifully against the salty air. As for mixing pigments, I’ve experimented a bit and found that natural earth pigments work best. They blend well with the lime wash and give you that unique, custom color you’re looking for.

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I tried lime wash after using clay paint and was surprised by the difference in texture and finish. Lime wash definitely gives a more rustic, textured look, which I love. However, I found it a bit more challenging to apply evenly. It took me a couple of tries to get the hang of it. Regarding durability, in my experience, lime wash can be just as durable as clay paint if applied correctly. It’s all about the surface prep and following the right application steps. I’m curious, has anyone tried sealing lime wash with a natural sealant for extra protection?

I’ve used lime wash in a humid climate, and honestly, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The key is proper surface prep and maybe a sealer if you’re really worried. I didn’t have mold issues, but the finish did fade a bit faster than I expected. Still, the look is unmatched.

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Mixing your own pigments sounds like a fun experiment! I’ve stuck to pre-mixed colors so far, but I’m curious about the process. How do you ensure the color consistency throughout the project? Also, does it affect the lime wash’s natural properties?

I live in a super humid area and went with lime wash for my bathroom. It’s been a year, and so far, so good. I did apply a natural, breathable sealer, though. It might have changed the texture slightly, but it’s holding up well against moisture.

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The technique for applying lime wash is definitely something you get better at with practice. My first wall was a bit patchy, but by the third, I had it down. A big sponge and a light touch made all the difference for me. Anyone else find a tool or method that really worked for them?

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I’m curious about the eco-friendly aspect of lime wash compared to other paints. I know it’s natural, but how does it stack up in terms of VOC levels and overall environmental impact? Has anyone done a deep dive into this?

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For those worried about durability in humid climates, I’ve heard that adding a bit of casein to the lime wash can help. It’s a natural protein that can improve adhesion and moisture resistance. Has anyone tried this? I’m considering it for my next project.

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