How do plant-based paints compare to traditional oil-based paints for wood in terms of finish and longevity?

Hey fellow eco-warriors! :herb: I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, focusing on refreshing some old wooden furniture. I’ve always been curious about how plant-based paints stack up against the traditional oil-based ones, especially when it comes to the finish and how long they last. I recently tried out Eco Wood Paint from a brand called Earthborn Paints, and I must say, the finish was surprisingly smooth and rich. It’s made from plant oils and resins, which got me thinking about its environmental footprint compared to conventional options.

Previously, I’ve experimented with milk paint for a more rustic look, but I found it a bit challenging to apply evenly. The Earthborn paint, on the other hand, was a breeze to work with, adhering beautifully to the wood and drying to a durable finish. It’s got me wondering about its longevity, though. I’ve heard that oil-based paints are tough to beat in terms of durability, but I’m hopeful that plant-based alternatives can hold their own, especially with the added benefit of being kinder to our planet.

So, I’m turning to you all for your experiences and insights. Have any of you made the switch to plant-based paints for wood projects? How do you find the finish and durability compared to traditional oil-based paints? Are there any brands or specific products you’d recommend? Let’s share our stories and tips to help each other make more eco-friendly choices in our DIY adventures!

I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for a couple of years now, and I must say, the difference in air quality in my home is noticeable. The finish on wood is superb, and it’s held up really well on my kitchen cabinets. I was skeptical about durability at first, but after two years, there’s no sign of wear. Definitely recommend giving it a try!

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@GreenThumb99 That’s great to hear! I’m really impressed with the finish quality so far. Do you have any tips for application to ensure the best durability?

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@EcoPainter88 Absolutely! Make sure the wood is well-prepared - sanded smooth and clean. I also found that applying a thin first coat, letting it dry thoroughly, and then applying a second coat really helps with durability and finish. Patience is key!

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I switched to BioShield Paint for my wooden furniture and haven’t looked back. The finish is beautiful, and it’s held up against scratches and spills better than I expected. Plus, knowing it’s better for the environment makes me feel good about my choice.

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@NatureLover23 I haven’t tried BioShield yet. How does it compare to traditional oil-based paints in terms of drying time?

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@EcoPainter88 It dries a bit slower than oil-based paints, but I think it’s worth the wait for the eco-friendly benefits. I usually allow 24 hours between coats to ensure it’s fully dry.

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Has anyone tried mixing their own plant-based paints? I’m curious about the process and how the finish compares to store-bought options.

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@DIYQueen I’ve experimented with making my own paint using linseed oil and natural pigments. The finish is more matte compared to commercial plant-based paints, but it’s incredibly satisfying to use something you’ve made yourself. It’s a bit of trial and error to get the consistency right, though!

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I’ve been on the fence about switching to plant-based paints, but hearing about your experience with Earthborn Paints is really encouraging. The fact that it’s held up on your kitchen cabinets for two years without wear is impressive. I’m curious, did you have to do any special prep work before applying it, or was it pretty straightforward?

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That’s awesome to hear about the air quality improvement. I’ve been using traditional oil-based paints for years, and while they’re durable, the smell is something else. It lingers for days. I might have to give Earthborn a shot for my next project. Do you know if they offer a wide range of colors, or is it more limited compared to conventional paints?

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I tried a different brand of plant-based paint last year, and while the finish was nice, it didn’t seem to last as long as I hoped. It’s great to hear that Earthborn has worked out so well for you. I wonder if the difference lies in the specific plant oils and resins they use. Maybe I’ll give them a try next time.

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The durability of Earthborn Paints sounds promising. I’ve been looking for more eco-friendly options for my woodworking projects. Besides the kitchen cabinets, have you used it on any other types of wood or furniture? I’m curious to know how versatile it is across different surfaces and finishes.

I’ve been using Auro plant-based paints for a while now, and I’m really impressed with the quality. The finish is smooth, and it’s held up well over time. I was skeptical at first, thinking it might not be as durable as oil-based paints, but it’s proven me wrong. Plus, the peace of mind knowing it’s eco-friendly is a big bonus.

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Honestly, I tried a plant-based paint once and wasn’t thrilled. It was Green Planet Paints, and while the application was easy, the finish didn’t seem as durable as traditional oil-based paints. Maybe I didn’t apply it correctly, but it started chipping after a few months. I’m open to trying again though, any tips?

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I switched to BioShield Paint for my wooden furniture and haven’t looked back. The finish is beautiful, and it’s held up against scratches and spills better than I expected. Plus, knowing it’s better for the environment makes me feel good about my choice.

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I’ve been curious about plant-based paints too, especially for outdoor furniture. Has anyone tried them outside? I’m worried about how they’ll hold up against the weather. I’ve heard Ecos Paints are good, but I’m looking for firsthand experiences before making the switch.

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I’ve actually dabbled in making my own plant-based paints, and it’s quite the adventure. I used linseed oil as a base and mixed in natural pigments I sourced online. The finish was surprisingly good, very matte and natural-looking, but it took some trial and error to get the consistency right. Definitely not as straightforward as store-bought, but rewarding if you’re into DIY.

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Mixing your own paint sounds like a cool project, but I’m not sure I have the patience for it. I’ve been using Auro plant-based paints, and they’ve been great. The finish is smooth, and they’ve held up well over time. Plus, they’re eco-friendly, which is a big win in my book.

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I tried making my own paint once, and it was a bit of a disaster. The color was off, and it didn’t stick well to the wood. I think I’ll stick to buying mine. Ecos Paints have been my go-to. They offer a wide range of colors, and the finish is always top-notch.

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