How to choose the right natural paint for your home: A beginner's guide

Hey everyone! :herb: I’ve recently embarked on a journey to make my home more eco-friendly, starting with the walls. I’ve been diving into the world of natural paints, and let me tell you, it’s both exciting and a bit overwhelming. I started with Earthborn Paints, known for their eco-friendly credentials and breathable finishes. The difference in air quality was noticeable almost immediately, which was a huge win for me.

However, I’m curious about your experiences. Have you tried Auro Natural Paints or Biofa? I’ve heard great things about their sustainability and how they handle on different surfaces. I’m particularly interested in how they perform on older walls that might have some imperfections. Also, how do you balance the environmental considerations with the aesthetic outcome? I want my home to look good but not at the expense of the planet.

So, what natural paints have you tried and loved? Any tips for a beginner like me on choosing the right one for different rooms and surfaces? Let’s share our stories and help each other make more informed, eco-conscious choices!

Hey @EcoPainter88, welcome to the world of natural paints! :seedling: I’ve been using Auro Natural Paints for a couple of years now, and I’m really impressed with their performance, especially on older walls. They have a range of products designed to cover imperfections beautifully. One tip I’d give is to always test the paint on a small section of your wall first, as older walls can sometimes react unpredictably. Also, their Plant-Based Paints are fantastic for achieving a smooth finish without compromising on eco-friendliness.

3 Likes

Thanks @GreenThumb99! That’s really helpful. I’ll definitely look into Auro Natural Paints. Do you have any specific product recommendations from their range for living rooms? I’m aiming for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

1 Like

@EcoPainter88, for a warm and inviting atmosphere, I’d recommend their Clay Paints. They come in a variety of rich, earthy tones that can really transform a space. Plus, they’re breathable, which is great for maintaining good air quality. Another option is their Casein Paints, which have a lovely matte finish and are perfect for creating a cozy vibe.

2 Likes

I’ve been experimenting with Biofa paints recently, and I must say, their Linseed Oil Paints are a game-changer for wooden surfaces. The depth of color and protection they offer is unparalleled. However, they do require a bit more patience during application, as the drying times can be longer than conventional paints. But the wait is definitely worth it for the eco-friendly benefits and the stunning finish.

4 Likes

That’s interesting, @SunnyDays47! I have some wooden furniture that could use a refresh. How many coats of Linseed Oil Paints do you usually apply for the best results?

1 Like

@EcoPainter88, I typically apply two coats for a rich, even finish. Make sure to sand lightly between coats for the best adhesion. Also, giving it ample time to dry is key – I usually wait at least 24 hours between coats. The patience pays off with a durable and beautiful finish!

3 Likes

Has anyone tried mixing brands for different effects? I’m curious if combining Earthborn Paints with Auro Natural Paints could offer unique textures or finishes. Or is it better to stick with one brand for consistency?

2 Likes

@NatureLover23, mixing brands can be tricky, especially with natural paints, as their formulations are quite specific. I’d recommend sticking to one brand per project to ensure compatibility and consistency. However, experimenting on a small sample board could be a fun way to see the effects without committing to a whole wall.

1 Like

Hey @EcoPainter88, I’ve been on the natural paint journey for a while now and I totally get where you’re coming from. I tried Biofa last year for my living room and was pleasantly surprised by how well it covered up some old stains and imperfections. The key for me was prepping the walls properly before painting. It made a huge difference in the final look. Also, their colors are so vibrant and true to the sample cards, which is a big plus for me. Have you considered the lighting in your rooms when choosing colors? It can really change the vibe.

1 Like

I’m just starting out with natural paints too, and it’s been a learning curve. I went with Earthborn Paints for my bedroom and loved the matte finish it gave. It feels so much more natural and less ‘plastic’ than conventional paints. I’m curious though, how do you guys deal with the higher cost of natural paints? I want to do my whole house but the budget is a bit tight. Any tips on where to save or maybe some brands that offer good value for money?

5 Likes

I’ve been using Auro Natural Paints for a while now, and I’m really impressed with their performance, especially on older walls. They have this unique way of blending into the imperfections, making them look more like features than flaws. The color palette is also quite extensive, which is great for someone like me who loves experimenting with different shades. The only downside is the price, but considering the quality and eco-friendliness, I think it’s worth it.

5 Likes

I tried Biofa for the first time last month, and I was blown away by the finish on my wooden furniture. The Linseed Oil Paints really do bring out the natural beauty of the wood. I agree that the drying time is a bit of a hassle, but I used that time to do some other eco-friendly upgrades around the house. It’s all about the patience and the bigger picture, right?

4 Likes

I’m all about Earthborn Paints too! The difference in air quality is something you can’t ignore. I used it in my living room and bedroom, and it’s like the walls are breathing. It’s fascinating how something as simple as paint can make such a big difference. I’m curious, though, has anyone tried mixing brands for different effects? Like using Earthborn for the walls and Biofa for the trim?

2 Likes

I haven’t tried mixing brands, but I did use Auro for my kitchen cabinets and Biofa for the walls in the same room. The contrast is stunning, and it really highlights the craftsmanship of the cabinets. It’s a bit more work, coordinating the drying times and all, but the result is a kitchen that feels both modern and timeless. Plus, knowing it’s all eco-friendly makes me feel good about the choices I’ve made.

1 Like

I think the key is to not rush the process. Choosing natural paints is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. I spent weeks researching and sampling before I settled on Earthborn for my walls and Biofa for my furniture. The transformation has been incredible, not just in how my home looks, but in how it feels. It’s like I’ve created a sanctuary that’s in harmony with nature.

1 Like

I’m just starting my journey with natural paints, and this thread has been super helpful. I’m leaning towards Auro for my first project, mainly because of the color options and the way it handles imperfections. I’m planning to do a feature wall in my living room. Any tips on how to prepare the wall to get the best results with Auro? I’ve heard that preparation is key with natural paints.

1 Like

Mixing brands can be a bit of a gamble. I tried combining Earthborn with Auro once, aiming for a unique texture in my living room. The result was interesting but not exactly what I expected. It’s tricky because each brand has its own base and consistency. If you’re going for a uniform look, sticking to one brand might be safer. But if you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiment on a small section first?

4 Likes

I’ve been using Biofa for a while now, especially on older walls. It’s great at covering imperfections without needing multiple coats. The finish is smooth and it really brings out the character of the walls. Haven’t tried mixing it with other brands though. I think each brand has its own charm and mixing might dilute that. Plus, sticking to one brand helps in maintaining a consistent eco-footprint.

3 Likes

I’m all for experimenting with different brands to achieve unique effects. I mixed Earthborn and Auro in my study, aiming for a textured look that would stand out. The key is to test the mix on a small area first. It turned out pretty well, giving the walls a depth that a single brand couldn’t achieve. Just make sure you’re okay with the possibility of it not turning out as planned.

4 Likes