Hey fellow green DIYers! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project, and I’m at a crossroads between choosing clay paints and milk paints. I’ve previously used Earthborn Claypaint in my living room, and I was blown away by its breathability and the rich, matte finish it gave my walls. It was perfect for my old, slightly damp walls, allowing them to breathe and reducing the risk of mold. However, I’m curious about milk paints, like The Real Milk Paint Co., especially for furniture and smaller projects. I’ve heard they offer an incredibly durable finish and are super eco-friendly, but I’m wondering about their cost-effectiveness and how they perform on larger surfaces compared to clay paints.
Has anyone here tried both? I’m particularly interested in hearing about your experiences with application ease, surface compatibility (especially on plaster and wood), and, of course, the environmental footprint of each. Also, how do they compare in terms of cost over time? I’m all for investing in sustainable options, but I also need to keep an eye on my budget. Let’s share our insights and help each other make informed, eco-conscious choices for our homes! 
I’ve used both Earthborn Claypaint and The Real Milk Paint Co. products, and I must say, each has its unique charm. For walls, especially in older homes with moisture issues, clay paint is unbeatable. Its breathability is a game-changer. However, for furniture, milk paint offers a durability and finish that’s hard to match. It’s also incredibly eco-friendly, made from natural ingredients like casein and lime. Cost-wise, milk paint can be more expensive upfront, but its durability means less frequent repainting, which could balance out over time.
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@GreenThumb88 Thanks for sharing your experience! It’s great to hear that milk paint holds up well on furniture. Do you find it easy to apply? I’m a bit concerned about the learning curve since I’ve only worked with clay paints so far.
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@EcoPainterJane Milk paint does have a bit of a learning curve, especially getting the consistency right. It’s a powder you mix with water, so it can be a bit trial and error at first. But once you get the hang of it, it’s quite straightforward. Plus, the finish is worth the effort!
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I’m all about the environmental footprint, so I did a bit of digging. Both paints are eco-friendly, but clay paint has a slight edge because it’s made from natural clay and minerals, requiring less processing. Milk paint, while also natural, involves more steps in its production. However, both are miles ahead of conventional paints in terms of sustainability.
@SandyShorelines That’s a great point about the environmental footprint. It’s reassuring to know both options are sustainable, but I’m leaning towards clay paint for my walls and maybe experimenting with milk paint on some furniture pieces. Thanks for the insight!
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Has anyone tried mixing the two? I’m curious if combining clay and milk paint could give the best of both worlds - the breathability of clay paint with the durability of milk paint. Or is that a DIY disaster waiting to happen? 
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@DIYDave That’s an interesting idea! I haven’t heard of anyone mixing them, but it could be worth experimenting on a small scale. If you try it, let us know how it goes!
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I’ve been using Earthborn Claypaint for a while now, and I totally agree about its breathability. It’s a lifesaver for older homes. But when it comes to furniture, I’ve found that milk paint, especially from The Real Milk Paint Co., gives a finish that’s just stunning. It’s like the difference between a good wine and a great one. Sure, it’s a bit pricier, but the durability and the eco-friendly aspect make it worth it for me.
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Interesting take on milk paint for furniture. I’ve always been a bit hesitant because of the cost, but hearing about its durability makes me reconsider. I wonder, though, how does it handle on surfaces that aren’t wood? Like, has anyone tried it on metal or plastic? I’m thinking of some outdoor furniture projects and curious if milk paint could be a viable option there.
I’ve experimented with milk paint on metal, and it’s a mixed bag. It adheres well if you prep the surface properly—sanding and using a bonding agent are key. But for outdoor use, you’d definitely need a topcoat to protect it from the elements. It’s doable, but requires a bit more effort and materials, which could add to the cost.
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Speaking of cost, has anyone looked into making their own milk paint? I stumbled upon some DIY recipes online, and it seems like a fun project. Plus, it could be a way to cut down on expenses if you’re doing a lot of projects. I’m curious about the consistency and color options though. Anyone tried this and can share their experience?
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I’ve used both in different parts of my house and honestly, it comes down to what you’re painting. Clay paint is unbeatable for walls, especially in older homes where moisture can be an issue. It’s like the walls can finally breathe. Milk paint, though, has been my go-to for furniture. It gives this unique, vintage look that’s hard to replicate. Cost-wise, they’re pretty similar over time, but clay paint might save you a bit on larger projects due to its coverage.
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I’m with you on the environmental aspect. Clay paint does seem to have a smaller footprint, but don’t overlook the durability of milk paint. I painted my kitchen cabinets with it years ago, and they still look fantastic. It’s also worth mentioning that milk paint can be mixed to achieve any color, which is a huge plus for customization. For me, the deciding factor was the finish I wanted rather than the cost.
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Just a heads-up, if you’re considering milk paint for larger surfaces, be prepared for more coats. It doesn’t cover as well as clay paint, so you might end up using more product. That said, the finish is worth it if you’re after that authentic, old-world charm. Also, both paints are super easy to clean up with just soap and water, which is a big win for the environment and your sanity.
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Mixing clay and milk paint sounds like a bold move! I haven’t tried it myself, but I’d be worried about the consistency and how well they’d blend. Clay paint is pretty thick, and milk paint can be quite thin, so getting them to mix evenly might be a challenge. Plus, you’d have to consider how the different bases (clay vs. casein) would react together. Could be an interesting experiment, though!
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I’ve used both separately but never thought to mix them. The idea is intriguing, especially for getting that durable finish from milk paint with the breathability of clay. However, I’d be cautious about the application. Maybe test it on a small, inconspicuous area first? Also, consider the drying times; they might not sync up, leading to a patchy finish.
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Interesting idea, but I’m not sure it’s practical. Each paint has its own unique properties and mixing them could dilute what makes each special. For example, the natural pigments in milk paint are vibrant and durable, while clay paint offers a unique texture and breathability. Combining them might just average out their best features. Maybe better to use each for what they’re best at?
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I love the creativity here! While I haven’t mixed them, I’ve layered them. I used milk paint as a base for its durability and then a thin coat of clay paint on top for the finish and breathability. It worked well for a piece of furniture, giving it a unique look and feel. Not sure how it would scale to walls, though. Might be worth experimenting on a small scale.
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The thought of mixing them is fascinating, but I’d be concerned about the environmental impact. Both paints are eco-friendly on their own, but mixing could introduce variables that aren’t as green. Plus, the cost of experimenting might add up if it doesn’t work out. Maybe stick to using each paint for its intended purpose and enjoy the benefits they offer separately.
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