Recommendations for sustainable paint choices inspired by historical practices

Hey everyone! :herb: I’ve been diving deep into the world of natural paints lately, inspired by how our ancestors used to color their homes with what nature provided. It’s fascinating, isn’t it? I’m currently renovating my 1920s bungalow and aiming to keep it as eco-friendly as possible. This got me thinking about sustainable paint choices that nod to historical practices but are suited for modern living.

I’ve experimented with a few brands, but Earth Pigments really caught my attention for their natural pigments and binders. They remind me of the lime washes and milk paints used centuries ago, but with a contemporary twist. I used their lime wash on my exterior walls, and not only does it look stunning, but it’s also breathable, which is perfect for old homes like mine. However, I’m curious about interior options. Has anyone tried Auro or Ecos paints? I’ve heard they’re great for indoor use, offering a wide range of colors without the nasty chemicals.

I’m particularly interested in how these paints perform on different surfaces. My bungalow has plaster walls, and I’m wondering about compatibility and durability. Also, how do these natural paints fare in terms of environmental impact during production and application? Let’s share our experiences and tips for choosing paints that honor our past while protecting our future. What brands have you tried, and what surfaces have you used them on? Let’s discuss! :art:

Hey @EcoRenovator88, your project sounds amazing! I’ve been using Auro paints for my interior walls and I’m really impressed. They have a great range of colors and the application is smooth. Plus, knowing they’re free from harmful chemicals gives me peace of mind. For plaster walls, I found that a primer helps with adhesion and durability. Have you considered using a primer before applying the paint?

3 Likes

I love the idea of blending historical practices with modern sustainability! I’ve used Ecos paints in my home and they’ve held up beautifully on both plaster and wood surfaces. Their commitment to environmental sustainability is commendable, from production to packaging. It’s fascinating how these modern natural paints can mimic the aesthetics of historical paints while being eco-friendly. @EcoRenovator88, have you looked into the environmental certifications of the brands you’re considering?

4 Likes

@GreenThumb99, thanks for the tip about the primer! I hadn’t thought about that, but it makes total sense, especially for older plaster walls. I’ll definitely look into getting a natural primer to ensure the paint adheres well. Do you have any recommendations for eco-friendly primers that work well with Auro paints?

2 Likes

@HistoricHues, that’s a great point about environmental certifications. I’ve been so focused on the ingredients and application that I overlooked that aspect. Ecos sounds like a fantastic option, especially with their commitment to sustainability. I’ll definitely check out their certifications and see how they compare to other brands. Thanks for bringing that up!

1 Like

I’m all for using natural paints, but I’m curious about the durability compared to conventional paints. Has anyone experienced any issues with fading or wear over time? I’m considering Earth Pigments for my next project but want to make sure it’s a practical choice for high-traffic areas.

@NatureLover23, I’ve used Earth Pigments in a couple of projects, including a kitchen backsplash, and it’s held up surprisingly well. The key is proper preparation and application. For high-traffic areas, I recommend applying a protective topcoat to enhance durability. It’s a bit more work, but worth it for the eco-friendly benefits and unique finish.

2 Likes

I recently tried making my own natural paint using clay, chalk, and natural pigments. It was a fun experiment and the results were surprisingly good! It’s not as durable as commercial natural paints, but for accent walls or decorative pieces, it’s a great option. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to use something you made yourself. Has anyone else tried DIY natural paints?

5 Likes

@DIYQueen, that’s so inspiring! I’ve been curious about making my own paint but wasn’t sure where to start. Your project sounds like a great way to personalize the space while staying eco-friendly. Do you have any tips or resources for someone looking to try DIY natural paints for the first time?

3 Likes

Hey, I’ve been on a similar journey with my own place. I tried Ecos paints and was really happy with the outcome. They’ve got this no-VOC thing going on, which is a big plus for me. On plaster walls, I found that letting the paint cure properly made a huge difference in durability. Have you thought about the curing time with Auro? Also, how do you find the color selection compares to more conventional brands?

I’m all about that eco-friendly life too! I haven’t tried Auro yet, but I’ve been using Biofa paints. They’re based on natural oils and resins, and I’ve found them to be super durable on my plaster walls. The finish is really smooth, and they have a nice, earthy palette. I’m curious, though, about the environmental impact of shipping these paints. Do you think the benefits outweigh the carbon footprint of getting them to your door?

I’ve been on a similar journey with my 1890s Victorian. Auro paints have been a game-changer for me, especially on the intricate woodwork. They’ve got this depth of color that really brings out the character of the wood, and it’s all without the harsh chemicals. It’s like stepping back in time but with the peace of mind that comes from using something eco-friendly. Have you considered how the natural light in your bungalow affects the color choices?

3 Likes

That’s awesome to hear about Ecos paints! I’ve been curious about them for a while now. I used Earth Pigments for a mural in my living room, and the texture is just incredible. It really adds a unique touch that you don’t get with conventional paints. I wonder, though, about the longevity of these natural paints. Have you noticed any fading or wear over time with Ecos?

3 Likes

I’m all for using sustainable materials, but I’ve had mixed results with natural paints on plaster. Some areas held up great, while others… not so much. It might be worth looking into the specific formulations for plaster compatibility. Auro does mention their paints are suitable for a variety of surfaces, but I’d love to hear more about your experience with Ecos on plaster walls.

1 Like

It’s fascinating how these natural paints can bridge the gap between historical authenticity and modern sustainability. I’ve been experimenting with making my own paints using traditional recipes. It’s a bit of a learning curve, but the results are rewarding. Have you ever thought about DIY paint recipes, or are you sticking with commercial brands for consistency?

5 Likes

The environmental impact of paint production is something I’ve been researching a lot lately. It’s not just about the ingredients but also the manufacturing process and packaging. Ecos seems to be leading the way in this regard. I’m curious, though, about the carbon footprint of shipping these paints. Does anyone know if they offer local pickup options to reduce transportation emissions?

3 Likes

That’s awesome you tried making your own paint! I’ve been curious about DIY options but haven’t taken the plunge yet. How did you mix your ingredients to get the right consistency? I’m thinking of trying it on a small project first, maybe a piece of furniture, to see how it holds up.

1 Like

I’ve used Auro paints in my living room and they’ve held up really well on plaster walls. The color depth is amazing and it feels good knowing there’s no off-gassing. For anyone worried about durability, I’d say go for it. Just make sure to prep your walls properly.

4 Likes

DIY natural paint sounds like a fun weekend project. I wonder if adding a natural binder like linseed oil could improve durability. Has anyone experimented with different binders in their homemade paints?

3 Likes

I’m all for sustainable choices but I’m skeptical about the longevity of natural paints, especially in high-traffic areas. Has anyone had experience with natural paints in kitchens or bathrooms? I’d love to hear how they’ve held up over time.

2 Likes