How to Choose the Right Natural Paint for Your First DIY Project

Hey fellow DIYers! :herb: I recently embarked on my first big project: repainting my living room. As someone deeply committed to green living, I knew I wanted to use natural paint. But, wow, the options were overwhelming! I ended up choosing EcoCoat Natural Paint for its low VOC content and because it’s made from renewable resources. It was a bit of a learning curve, but the result was worth it—vibrant, durable, and guilt-free!

I’ve previously tried BioShield Clay Paint in my bedroom, which was fantastic for its breathability, especially on older walls. However, for the living room, I needed something that could handle a bit more wear and tear. EcoCoat seemed like the perfect fit. Application was smooth, though it did require a couple of coats for full coverage. I used it on plaster walls, and it adhered beautifully without any primer.

I’m curious, what natural paints have you all tried? How did they hold up over time, especially in high-traffic areas? Also, any tips for first-timers on choosing the right type of natural paint for different surfaces? Let’s share our experiences and help each other make more eco-friendly choices in our homes!

Great topic, @EcoPainterJane! I’ve been using EarthHue Natural Paints for a while now, and I must say, their durability in high-traffic areas is impressive. I used their Lime Wash in my hallway, and it’s held up beautifully against daily wear and tear. For first-timers, I’d recommend starting with smaller projects to get a feel for the paint’s consistency and coverage. Also, always check the paint’s compatibility with your wall type. Lime-based paints, for example, work wonders on porous surfaces but might not be the best for non-porous ones.

3 Likes

Thanks for the tip, @GreenThumb88! I’ve heard great things about EarthHue but haven’t tried them yet. How many coats did the Lime Wash require for full coverage? Also, did you need to use a primer?

1 Like

@EcoPainterJane, the Lime Wash required two coats for full coverage on my plaster walls. I didn’t use a primer, as the paint is designed to bond directly with porous surfaces. However, for non-porous surfaces, a primer might be necessary. Always best to do a patch test first!

2 Likes

I’m just starting my journey into natural paints and this thread is super helpful! Has anyone tried PureNature Paints? I’m considering them for my kitchen cabinets but worried about durability with all the cooking fumes and moisture.

1 Like

@SunnyDaysAhead, I haven’t used PureNature Paints myself, but I’ve read that their Kitchen & Bath line is specifically formulated for high-moisture areas. It might be worth looking into their product specifications or reaching out to their customer service for advice. Good luck with your project!

2 Likes

I’ve experimented with several natural paints over the years, and my go-to for durability and ease of application is GreenGuard Paints. Their Eco Matte Finish is perfect for living spaces, offering a beautiful, non-reflective finish that hides wall imperfections well. For those new to natural paints, I’d suggest investing in good quality brushes and rollers. The right tools can make a huge difference in application and finish.

4 Likes

@DIYMaster123, I completely agree about the importance of quality tools! I found that using a high-density foam roller with EcoCoat gave me the smoothest finish. Have you tried any of GreenGuard’s other finishes? I’m curious about their Satin Finish for trim work.

1 Like

I’ve been eyeing EarthHue Natural Paints for a while now, especially their Lime Wash. Hearing about its durability in high-traffic areas is a game-changer for me. I’ve got a busy household, and the hallway is practically a runway. Starting with a smaller project sounds like solid advice. Maybe I’ll test it out in the bathroom first. Thanks for the tip!

3 Likes

I tried BioShield Clay Paint in my kitchen, and while I loved the natural look, it didn’t hold up well against splashes and stains. Ended up switching to EcoCoat for its durability. It’s been a few months, and so far, so good. For anyone considering natural paints, definitely think about the room’s function before choosing.

4 Likes

Interesting to hear about EcoCoat Natural Paint. I’ve been hesitant to switch from conventional paints because I’m worried about coverage and durability. But if it worked well on plaster walls without a primer, that’s promising. I might give it a shot in my living room too. How was the drying time compared to regular paint?

2 Likes

I’m all for natural paints but have found that the color options can be a bit limited. Has anyone else noticed this? I went with EarthHue for my living room and loved the quality, but I wish there were more vibrant colors available. Maybe it’s time for these brands to expand their palettes.

Durability is key for me, so hearing about EarthHue’s Lime Wash holding up in high-traffic areas is great. I’ve been using BioShield in less trafficked areas and love it, but I need something tougher for the living room. Might have to give EarthHue a try. Any tips on application?

I’ve been using EcoCoat in my kids’ rooms, and it’s been a lifesaver. The low VOC content gives me peace of mind, and it’s held up surprisingly well against crayons and markers. For anyone with kids, I’d definitely recommend giving it a try. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze.

I’ve used PureNature Paints in my bathroom, and honestly, it’s held up pretty well against the moisture. Not sure about cooking fumes, but for steam and splashes, it’s been great. Just make sure you give it enough time to cure properly before exposing it to too much moisture or heat.

I tried PureNature for my kitchen cabinets last year. The color is still vibrant, but I did notice some areas where the finish has dulled a bit, probably from the constant cleaning. Maybe consider a more durable topcoat if you’re going for PureNature in the kitchen.

1 Like

Haven’t tried PureNature yet, but I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for my furniture projects. They’re super eco-friendly and have a great range of colors. Might be worth looking into for your cabinets if you’re exploring options.

4 Likes

I’m all about Auro Paints for high-traffic areas. They’re a bit pricier, but the durability is unmatched. Used it on my kitchen walls and cabinets, and it’s been two years with no signs of wear. Might be overkill for some, but I think it’s worth the investment.

1 Like

I’ve been using Earthborn Paints for a while now, and I must say, their Eggshell No. 28 is a game-changer for high-traffic areas. It’s got this amazing durability that stands up to daily wear and tear, plus the finish is just stunning. For anyone just starting out, I’d recommend starting with smaller projects to get a feel for the application process. It really helps in understanding how different natural paints behave on various surfaces.

1 Like

Totally get where you’re coming from with the overwhelming options. I tried Auro Natural Paints last year for my kitchen cabinets. Their Plant-Based Paint was a bit tricky to apply at first, but the end result was so worth it. The key for me was patience and not rushing the coats. Also, for those diving into natural paints, don’t skimp on prep work. Properly cleaning and prepping your surfaces can make a huge difference in how the paint adheres and lasts.