Limewashed walls are soothing, calming and pleasing to look upon.  This finish has a texture and lightly variable color that would take a lot of artistry to achieve with any regular latex paint. In addition, lime is an air purifier while it’s wet, and it’s non toxic; it produces no VOCs. (We also discuss the mold-remediation and prevention aspects of using it for a primer here).   It does take a bit of work to apply, but the aesthetics of limewashed walls are amazing!  You can buy limewash pre-mixed, or make your own.

That said, I’d like to introduce or remind you of an old, true rule: the Good, Fast and Cheap Rule.  You can pick only two of the following:

• Good
• Fast
• Cheap

For example Good + Fast is not Cheap.  Fast + Cheap is not Good.  Good + Cheap is not Fast.  Think about it and you’ll realize it applies to many areas of life, not just renovation projects!  In this case, you can make Limewash Cheap.  It’s a Good recipe that turns out well.  However, it takes some time to properly mix and apply it, therefore it’s not Fast.  Making and applying limewash should cost less than $50 and make LOTS of limewash.

As I mentioned, you can also buy limewash pre-mixed; Color Atelier is a highly rated brand for pre-mixed limewash paint.  According to the manufacturer, one gallon ($98) will cover approx 400 sq. feet, and normally two coats are advised (total $196).  It still requires a Primer (same with making your own limewash) and optionally but optimally, a Sealer to protect it.  Therefore, you just need to decide which two aspects of Good, Fast and Cheap appeal the most to you!

“The Sorry Girls” have a really good tutorial and video on making your own limewash.  A quick science lesson is given in the video at minute 3:25 (or read our article).  For best results, be patient and follow the directions and steps as closely as possible!  

Photo from House Beautiful