Hey fellow eco-warriors! 
I’ve recently embarked on a journey to repaint my living room with clay paint, aiming for a more natural and sustainable vibe. I’m super excited about the aesthetic and environmental benefits, but I’ve hit a bit of a snag when it comes to priming. Traditional primers just don’t align with my green living ethos, so I’m on the hunt for eco-friendly alternatives that work well with clay paint.
So far, I’ve experimented with a couple of options. I tried a natural chalk-based primer from EcoPure Paints, which was pretty good but required a bit more elbow grease to apply smoothly. I also gave a go to a plant-based primer by Earthborn Paints, which was easier to apply and had a lovely, subtle scent. Both seemed to bond well with the clay paint, but I’m curious about your experiences.
What eco-friendly primers have you used with clay paint? How did they perform in terms of application and durability? Also, any tips on surface preparation to ensure the best adhesion would be greatly appreciated. Let’s share our knowledge and help each other make more sustainable choices in our DIY projects! 
Hey @GreenThumbGary! 
I’ve been down the same path and found that a linseed oil-based primer works wonders with clay paint. It’s all-natural and enhances the paint’s durability. Just make sure to apply it thinly and let it dry thoroughly before your clay paint. Also, sanding the surface lightly before priming can really help with adhesion. Happy painting!
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I’ve used Earthborn Paints’ plant-based primer as well and loved it! The application was a breeze, and the finish was smooth. For surface prep, I always go for a good clean with a damp cloth to remove any dust or grease. It’s a simple step but makes a huge difference.
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@MistyMeadow Thanks for the tip! I haven’t tried linseed oil-based primer yet. How many coats do you usually apply? And does it affect the drying time of the clay paint?
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@BreezyBirch I second the cleaning tip! Also, if you’re dealing with a particularly shiny or non-porous surface, a light sanding can help the primer adhere better. It’s all about creating that perfect base for your clay paint.
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Has anyone tried milk paint as a primer for clay paint? I’ve heard it’s a great eco-friendly option, but I’m curious about its compatibility and durability.
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@LeafyLane That’s an interesting idea! I haven’t tried milk paint as a primer, but I’m intrigued. If anyone has experience with this, I’d love to hear how it went.
I’ve been experimenting with clay-based primers and found them to be a perfect match for clay paint. They’re made from natural clay and minerals, so they’re super eco-friendly. The key is to apply them evenly and allow ample drying time. They might require a bit more patience, but the results are worth it!
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@EcoExplorer That sounds promising! Do you have any brand recommendations for clay-based primers? And how do they handle on different surfaces?
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I’ve been using a soy-based primer for my clay paint projects and it’s been a game changer. It’s not only eco-friendly but also super easy to apply. The key is to make sure your walls are clean and dry before you start. I usually wipe them down with a damp cloth and let them dry overnight. The primer dries to a nice matte finish, perfect for clay paint. Plus, it’s low VOC, so it’s safe for indoor use. Definitely recommend giving it a try!
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Interesting! I went with a milk paint primer for my clay paint. It’s a bit unconventional, but it’s all-natural and has a unique, vintage look once the clay paint is applied. The application was a bit tricky at first, but once I got the hang of it, it was smooth sailing. It’s important to mix it well and apply it in thin layers. The adhesion is fantastic, and it really brings out the texture of the clay paint. A bit of a learning curve, but totally worth it.
I tried a clay-based primer from a local eco-friendly brand, and it was a perfect match for my clay paint. It’s made from natural clay and minerals, so it’s completely in line with sustainable living. The application was straightforward, and it dried quickly. The best part is that it enhances the natural color and texture of the clay paint. Just make sure to stir it well before use. It’s a bit pricier, but you get what you pay for in terms of quality and eco-friendliness.
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Has anyone tried beeswax-based primers? I’ve heard they’re great for sealing and priming surfaces for clay paint. They’re supposed to be all-natural and provide a durable base. I’m curious about the application process and how well it holds up over time. Also, does it affect the color of the clay paint? I’m all for trying new eco-friendly options, but I want to make sure it’s the right fit for my project.
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I’ve been experimenting with casein-based primers and they’ve been surprisingly effective with clay paint. Casein is derived from milk, making it a sustainable choice. It’s a bit thicker than other primers, so it requires some thinning with water, but it provides excellent coverage and adhesion. The finish is smooth and it really makes the clay paint pop. Just be mindful of the drying time, as it can take a bit longer than synthetic primers. Overall, a solid eco-friendly option.
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I’ve actually used milk paint as a primer for clay paint in my kitchen. It worked surprisingly well, giving a smooth base that the clay paint adhered to nicely. The key is to make sure the surface is clean and slightly sanded for the best adhesion. Durability-wise, it’s been a few months and no issues so far. Just make sure to seal it properly if you’re going for a washable finish.
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Milk paint sounds intriguing! I haven’t tried it myself, but I’ve been using a casein-based primer which is somewhat similar. It’s made from milk protein and works great with clay paints. The application was smooth, and it’s held up well over time. Plus, it’s completely natural and biodegradable, which is a huge plus for me.
I’m a bit skeptical about milk paint as a primer. I tried it once, and while the application was fine, I noticed some areas where the clay paint didn’t stick as well. Maybe it was the brand I used or perhaps I didn’t prepare the surface correctly. I’ve since switched to a lime-based primer and have had better results. It’s also eco-friendly and works well with clay paints.
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I’ve heard about milk paint but never used it as a primer. I usually go for a natural silicate primer. It’s mineral-based, so it’s eco-friendly, and it creates a really strong bond with clay paint. The only downside is that it can be a bit tricky to apply evenly. But once you get the hang of it, it’s a great option.
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Milk paint as a primer? That’s a new one for me. I’ve been using a soy-based primer with my clay paint projects. It’s easy to apply, dries quickly, and has a low VOC content. I’ve been really happy with the results. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s made from renewable resources, which aligns with my sustainability goals.
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I tried milk paint as a primer on a small project, and it was okay. Not the best, not the worst. I think the success really depends on the surface and the specific brands of paint you’re using. I’ve since moved to using a natural oil primer, which has been fantastic. It’s a bit more work to apply, but the finish and durability are top-notch. Plus, it’s all-natural, which is a big win for eco-conscious DIYers.
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