Hey everyone! 
I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints for my latest home renovation project. I’m all about reducing my environmental footprint, but I’ve hit a bit of a crossroads. I’ve been using Earthborn Paints, which are fantastic for their low VOC content and eco-friendly credentials. However, I’ve noticed that while they’re great for the planet, they might not be as durable as some of the more conventional options I’ve used in the past, like Farrow & Ball (which, while better than most, still aren’t 100% natural).
This got me thinking: is it worth it to sacrifice a bit of durability for the sake of using 100% natural ingredients? I’ve applied these paints to both walls and furniture, and while the finish is beautiful, I’m a bit worried about how they’ll hold up over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Plus, I’m curious about surface compatibility—has anyone tried natural paints on different surfaces like metal or concrete?
I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Have you found a natural paint that offers both durability and eco-friendliness? Or do you think the trade-off is worth it for the sake of sustainability? Let’s discuss! 
Great topic, @EcoDaisy! 
I’ve been using Auro Natural Paints for a few years now, and while they’re not as durable as some synthetic options, I find their environmental benefits outweigh the slight decrease in durability. For high-traffic areas, I recommend applying a natural wax or oil finish over the paint to add an extra layer of protection. It’s a bit more work, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind!
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I think it’s all about finding the right balance. I’ve used Earthborn Paints too, and while I love their eco-credentials, I agree that durability can be an issue. Have you considered Biofa Paints? They’re another great option that offers a bit more durability without compromising on natural ingredients. Plus, they have a wide range of colors!
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Honestly, I think the trade-off is worth it. The environmental impact of conventional paints is just too high. I’ve been experimenting with making my own natural paints using clay, chalk, and natural pigments. It’s a fun project, and you can customize the durability by adjusting the ingredients. Plus, it’s super satisfying to use something you’ve made yourself!
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@GreenThumb99, thanks for the tip about the natural wax or oil finish! I hadn’t thought of that. Do you have any specific products you’d recommend for the finish? I’m definitely willing to put in the extra work for a more durable, eco-friendly solution.
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@PaintLover23, I haven’t tried Biofa Paints yet, but I’ll definitely look into them. Do you know if they’re compatible with different surfaces like metal or concrete? I’m trying to find a versatile option for my whole house.
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@EcoWarrior, making your own paint sounds like an amazing project! Do you have any resources or guides you’d recommend for someone looking to get started? I’d love to try it out, especially if it means I can tweak the durability to suit different areas of my home.
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@EcoDaisy, I’ve had great results with Osmo Polyx-Oil. It’s a natural, hard-wax oil that provides excellent protection and brings out the color of the paint beautifully. It’s a bit pricey, but a little goes a long way. Just make sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area!
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@EcoDaisy, Biofa Paints are quite versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal and concrete. They have specific primers and finishes designed for different materials, so you can achieve a durable, long-lasting finish. I’d recommend reaching out to their customer service for specific product recommendations based on your project needs.
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@EcoDaisy, I started with a book called ‘The Natural Paint Book’ by Lynn Edwards and Julia Lawless. It’s a great resource for beginners and covers everything from sourcing materials to mixing your own paints. There are also plenty of online tutorials and forums where you can find recipes and tips. It’s a bit of trial and error at first, but it’s so rewarding once you get the hang of it!
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I’ve been on the fence about this too. I used Eco Paints in my living room and while the color is vibrant and the smell is non-existent, I did notice some wear after just a few months. I’m considering trying a different brand or maybe even mixing natural with a bit of synthetic for those high-traffic areas. Has anyone tried mixing paints for better durability?
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Honestly, I think the trade-off is worth it. The environmental impact of synthetic paints is just too high. I’ve been using Biofa paints and yes, they require a bit more maintenance, but knowing I’m not contributing to harmful emissions makes it all worth it for me. Plus, the natural look they give is unmatched.
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I’m all for natural paints, but durability is a big concern for me. I tried Green Planet Paints in my kitchen and it just didn’t hold up to the daily wear and tear. I ended up repainting with a more durable option. Maybe in the future, there will be a natural paint that can withstand high traffic areas better.
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I’ve found that the key is in the preparation and application. I use Aglaia paints and make sure to properly prime and seal the surfaces. It’s a bit more work upfront, but it significantly improves durability. Also, choosing the right sheen can make a big difference in how well the paint holds up over time.
It’s interesting to see everyone’s experiences. I’ve been experimenting with Livos paints and have been pleasantly surprised by their durability, especially when I apply a natural sealer on top. It’s not as tough as synthetic paints, but for the environmental benefits, I think it’s a fair compromise. Maybe the future of paint is in developing more durable natural options.
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I’ve been in the same boat, trying to balance eco-friendliness with durability. I haven’t tried Biofa Paints yet, but I’m intrigued. How do they fare on surfaces like metal or concrete? I’ve been using Auro Paints for my walls, and while they’re not perfect, they’ve held up better than I expected in high-traffic areas.
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Honestly, I think the trade-off is worth it. We’re talking about our planet here. Sure, the paint might not last as long, but isn’t it better to repaint with something natural than to keep using harmful chemicals? I’ve been using Ecos Paints, and while they require a bit more maintenance, I sleep better at night knowing I’m not contributing to the problem.
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I get where you’re coming from, but I think durability is key, especially for furniture. I’ve had bad experiences with natural paints chipping and fading too quickly. Maybe it’s about using different types of paint for different applications? Like, natural paints for walls where durability isn’t as critical, and something more durable for furniture.
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I’ve tried Biofa Paints on my kitchen cabinets, and I have to say, I’m impressed. They’ve held up really well against daily wear and tear. The color hasn’t faded, and there’s no chipping. It’s a bit pricier, but for me, it’s worth it to have something that’s both durable and eco-friendly.
It’s interesting to hear everyone’s experiences. I think the key is to do your research and maybe even test a small area before committing. I’ve been looking into Green Planet Paints for my next project. They claim to offer a good balance between being eco-friendly and durable. Has anyone tried them?