Soft, naturalistic elements are continuing to be a mainstay in modern interior design. We’re craving a more authentic feel in our homes. While there is beauty in the clean lines and organized essence of farmhouse design, modern organic is starting to take center stage. It’s a newer style that draws from minimalism, midcentury modern, and bohemian design. Limewash paint is an element you’ll see again and again in these designs. But what exactly is it and how can you use it in your home design projects?
Limewash paint finds its roots in early Roman times. It was originally comprised of crushed and burned limestone, water, and pigment. In combination, these ingredients would create a dense putty that was then applied to surfaces with a mottled, matte, or chalky texture. Once dried it would take on a soft, suede-like appearance. There’s still evidence of this early limewashing around Pompeii and Herculean ruins in Southern Italy.
The limewash paint of today is not much different than its predecessor. Some modern varieties do contain additional binding agents but they are mostly made from mineral additives. This makes limewash paint an environmentally-friendly option for updating your walls.
Limewash doesn’t contain any of the harmful solvents most paints are made with. Modern limewash contains just natural lime, natural pigments, and environmentally-friendly mineral additives. These qualities also make limewash hypoallergenic. It discourages microorganism growth and can even remove odors and harmful CO2.
When you open a can of modern limewash, it can have a chalky consistency. When applied to a wall, it has a putty-like consistency. Limewash has an off-white color in its base form. Natural, alkali-resistant pigments can give it an earthy color. It can come in shades such as taupe, pale yellow, brown, terracotta, and more.
Limewash is a great option for both interior and exterior walls. It does best on porous surfaces such as plaster, stone, and brick. Rather than sitting on top of these surfaces, it actually sinks in for a better grip. When outside, it creates a unique patina due to weather exposure. Limewash can also be used on drywall too. Modern varieties usually feature mineral-binding additives for easier application. But you can also use a primer to create a stronger bond with the drywall. It should be a mineral-based primer such as an acrylic primer.
If you’re on a tight budget, you can create your own limewash. All you need is hydrated lime and water. You can typically find hydrated lime at your local hardware store. Mix it together until it has a thick, putty-like consistency. You can then add natural pigment until it reaches the proper color. Remember, limewash becomes lighter as it dries. Be sure to spot-test it before applying it to the entire surface.
When you apply limewash on an interior wall, be sure to use a primer if the type you’re using calls for it. Once the surface is prepped, use a long-haired masonry paintbrush to apply thin coats of the putty. You don’t want to use a roller for this as you won’t achieve that hallmark texture limewash is known for.
Limewash is typically up to 10 times darker when it’s wet. Be sure to test the color on a small section of the wall first. Opacity will depend on how many coats you apply. It’s typical to apply up to three coats. But you may need to do more or less depending on the composition and porosity of the surface.
Before you decide to choose limewash paint for your interior or exterior, be sure you know the pros and cons.
Limewash can add beauty and an organic, naturalistic element to your home. This distinct feature can be difficult to style if you’re not very familiar with modern organic interior design. If you need help shifting your interior towards this style during your next home renovation project, get in touch with Forge & Bow! We are your go-to construction and design team in the Fort Collins area!
