Hey fellow eco-warriors! 
I recently took on the challenge of repainting my home’s exterior walls with natural clay paint, and I must say, it’s been quite the adventure. I chose Earthborn Claypaint for its breathability and eco-friendly credentials. Before this, I experimented with a couple of other natural paints, including a lime wash and a milk paint, but neither seemed to hold up as well against the elements as I’d hoped.
Applying the clay paint was a learning curve. I found that prepping the surface was key—ensuring it was clean, dry, and free from any flaky old paint. I applied two coats, allowing ample drying time between each, and the result is a beautifully matte finish that’s both durable and environmentally considerate. The paint’s compatibility with various surfaces, including brick and render, made it a versatile choice for my project.
I’m curious to hear from others who’ve ventured into the world of natural exterior paints. What brands have you tried, and how have they stood up to the weather? Any tips for ensuring the longevity of natural paint finishes on exterior walls? Let’s share our experiences and help each other make more sustainable choices in our DIY projects!
Hey EcoPainterJane! 
Your project sounds amazing! I’ve been considering Earthborn Claypaint for my own home. Could you share more about the drying times between coats? I’m a bit worried about the weather turning bad during the process.
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I used Auro Natural Paint for my exterior walls last year. It’s been holding up pretty well against the rain and sun. One tip I found crucial was applying a weather-resistant primer before the paint. It really helped with the longevity!
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@GreenThumb88 Thanks for your interest! The drying time between coats was about 4-6 hours, but I made sure to check the weather forecast to avoid any rain. A tip: start early in the morning to maximize daylight drying time.
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Has anyone tried mixing their own clay paint? I’m curious about the process and if it’s cost-effective compared to buying ready-made brands like Earthborn or Auro.
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@MudLover I’ve experimented with making my own clay paint. It’s definitely cheaper, but getting the consistency right can be tricky. I used a mix of clay, natural pigments, and a binder. It’s a fun project if you’re into DIY!
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I’m all for sustainable living, but how do these natural paints compare in terms of color variety? I love vibrant colors for my home’s exterior.
@EcoWarrior123 You’d be surprised! Brands like Earthborn and Auro offer a wide range of colors. Plus, you can mix natural pigments to create custom shades. It’s all about experimenting!
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Great thread! Just wanted to add that using natural paints not only benefits the environment but also improves indoor air quality. It’s a win-win for eco-conscious homeowners.
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@NatureLover Absolutely! The difference in air quality is noticeable, especially for those with sensitivities. Plus, the aesthetic of natural paints is unmatched. So glad to see so many people embracing eco-friendly options!
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I’ve been using Earthborn Claypaint for a while now, and I totally agree about the importance of surface prep. I found that using a stiff brush to really get into the nooks and crannies made a huge difference. Also, applying a sealer after the paint has fully cured can add an extra layer of protection against the elements. Have you tried any sealers with your clay paint?
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That’s interesting about the weather-resistant primer. I went with Biofa Natural Paints and skipped the primer, thinking the paint’s natural ingredients would be enough. It’s been a year, and while it’s holding up, I can see some areas where the color has faded more than others. Maybe I should consider a primer for the next touch-up. Do you think it’s too late to apply a primer now?
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I tried Auro Natural Paint too, but I didn’t use a primer. It’s been holding up, but I’ve noticed some moisture spots during heavy rains. I’m wondering if those spots would have been prevented with a primer. How did you apply the primer? Did you use a brush, roller, or spray?
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I’m curious about the drying time between coats. With Earthborn Claypaint, I waited about 4-6 hours, but the weather was pretty dry. How long did you wait between coats with Auro Natural Paint? Also, did you notice any difference in application or durability based on the drying time?
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I’ve used Earthborn Claypaint too, and while the color range isn’t as vast as conventional paints, they do offer a decent palette. I went for a soft terracotta shade, and it’s held up beautifully against the rain and sun. The key is in the preparation and application, as you mentioned. For vibrant colors, you might need to look into natural pigments to mix with the base paint, but that’s a whole new adventure.
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Color variety with natural paints can be a bit limited compared to synthetic options, but it’s improving. I used a brand that allowed me to customize colors by adding natural pigments. It took some experimenting to get the shade I wanted, but the result was worth it. My advice is to test your color on a small section first, as natural paints can look different once dried and exposed to light.
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Totally agree with the indoor air quality point. I switched to natural paints a couple of years back and noticed a significant difference, especially for my kids who have allergies. It’s not just about the walls looking good but also about creating a healthier living space.
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I’ve been using Earthborn Claypaint too and it’s been a game-changer for my old stone cottage. The breathability aspect is crucial here in the UK with our damp weather. It’s kept the walls dry and mold-free, which is a huge plus.
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Interesting to hear about the prep work. I tried a natural paint once without much prep and it was a disaster. Peeling everywhere after the first rain. Lesson learned: never skip the prep. How long did you let each coat dry before applying the next one?
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I’m curious about the color options with natural paints. I’ve heard they can be a bit limited compared to conventional paints. Did you find a good range with Earthborn, or did you have to compromise on the shade you wanted?
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