Hey everyone! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I’ve got to say, it’s been quite the learning curve. I started with a simple goal: to find a paint that’s not only eco-friendly but also durable and easy to work with. That’s when I stumbled upon the fascinating world of additives in natural paints.
I’ve been experimenting with Earthborn Paints, which are clay-based and come with a variety of natural additives to enhance performance. For instance, they use natural waxes to improve water resistance and plant-based thickeners to adjust the paint’s consistency. It’s been a game-changer for my project, especially when painting over old, uneven surfaces.
But here’s where I need your input: What’s your experience with natural paint additives? Have you found certain types to be more effective for specific surfaces or conditions? I’m particularly curious about how these additives impact the paint’s environmental footprint. Does the addition of natural waxes or thickeners significantly alter the paint’s biodegradability or VOC levels?
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences. Let’s share our knowledge and make our homes a little greener, one wall at a time! 
Hey @EcoPainter89, great topic! I’ve been using Auro Paints for a while now, and their use of natural additives like linseed oil and citrus solvents has really impressed me. The linseed oil not only enhances durability but also gives the paint a beautiful, rich finish. As for the environmental impact, I believe these additives are pretty low in VOCs and are biodegradable, but I’d love to hear more expert opinions on this.
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Thanks, @GreenThumb22! I’ve heard a lot about Auro Paints but haven’t tried them yet. The use of linseed oil sounds fascinating, especially for durability. Do you find that it affects the drying time significantly?
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@EcoPainter89, yes, it does extend the drying time a bit, but I think it’s worth the wait for the finish and durability it provides. Plus, it gives me more time to work with the paint, which is great for detailed areas.
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I’ve been experimenting with Biofa Paints, which use natural resins and oils as additives. I found that these additives not only improve the paint’s adherence to different surfaces but also enhance its resistance to mold and mildew, which is a big plus for humid areas. Has anyone else tried Biofa Paints?
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@NatureLover77, that’s interesting! Mold resistance is definitely a key factor for me, especially in the bathroom. How do you find the color selection with Biofa Paints?
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@EcoPainter89, the color selection is quite extensive, and they offer a range of natural pigments. I’ve been able to find shades that perfectly match my eco-friendly decor. Plus, the colors seem to stay vibrant longer, which is a bonus!
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I’m just starting out with natural paints and this thread is super helpful! I’m curious, does anyone have tips for applying natural paints over previously painted walls? I’m worried about compatibility issues.
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@SunnyDaysAhead, great question! I’ve found that lightly sanding the walls and applying a natural primer first can really help with adhesion. Also, make sure the previous paint isn’t oil-based, as that can cause issues. Good luck with your project!
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Hey @EcoPainter89, I’ve been experimenting with Biofa Paints and their natural additives have been a revelation for me. They use things like casein and lime which not only improve the paint’s durability but also its breathability. This is crucial for older homes where moisture can be a real issue. As for the environmental impact, I think it’s minimal since these are all natural, biodegradable components. Would love to hear if anyone else has tried Biofa and their thoughts.
Interesting discussion! I’ve been using Aglaia Paints and their approach to natural additives is quite unique. They incorporate beeswax and natural resins which not only enhance the paint’s performance but also give it a unique texture and depth. I’m particularly impressed with how these additives improve the paint’s resistance to wear and tear. On the environmental side, I believe these additives are sustainable and have a low impact, but I’m curious about the sourcing of these materials. Does anyone know more about the sustainability practices of Aglaia?
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I’ve been using Biofa Paints for a while now, and I must say, the natural resins and oils really do make a difference. Especially in my bathroom, which tends to get pretty humid. The mold resistance is a game-changer. I haven’t noticed any issues with biodegradability either, which is a huge plus for me. Have you tried their exterior paints? I’m curious about how they hold up against the elements.
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Interesting take on Biofa Paints. I’ve been more into Auro Paints myself. They use plant-based additives that seem to work wonders on wooden surfaces. I painted my deck with it last summer, and it’s still holding up great. The color hasn’t faded much, and it’s withstood rain and sun like a champ. I wonder how Biofa compares in terms of UV resistance and color retention over time.
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I haven’t tried Biofa Paints yet, but your experience with mold resistance sounds promising. I’ve been using Ecos Paints, which also boast low VOCs and natural ingredients. They’ve been great for my living room, especially since I have pets. The paint dried quickly and didn’t leave any strong odors. I’m curious, though, how does Biofa handle coverage? I found that some natural paints require multiple coats, which can be a bit of a hassle.
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Hey, I’ve been using natural paints for a while now, and applying them over previously painted walls hasn’t been a big issue for me. The key is to make sure the surface is clean and dry. Sometimes, I lightly sand the wall to help the new paint adhere better. Just make sure to wipe off any dust afterward. Also, using a primer can really help with compatibility and coverage. Good luck with your project!
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I had a bit of trouble with natural paints peeling off when I tried to paint over old walls. What worked for me was using a natural primer first. It created a good base for the paint to stick to. Also, make sure the old paint isn’t oil-based, as natural paints might not adhere well to that. If you’re unsure, you can do a small test patch to see how it goes.
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I’ve found that the type of natural paint you use can make a big difference when painting over old walls. Some brands have better adhesion properties than others. It might be worth experimenting with a few different types to see which one works best for your walls. Also, don’t forget to consider the color of the old paint. Sometimes, a darker color underneath can affect the final look of the new paint.
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One thing I learned the hard way is that natural paints can take longer to dry than conventional ones, especially if you’re painting over a previously painted wall. Make sure you give it enough time to dry between coats to avoid any issues. Also, ventilation is key. Even though natural paints have lower VOCs, good airflow will help with the drying process and make the application smoother.