Learn what makes these trending wall treatments, including limewash, milk paint, and Roman clay, unique.
The tool processes vary from quick, one-step coatings to multistep jobs that require extra workincluding priming and sealing.
Weve listed them in order from the easiest to apply to the most labor-intensive.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Courtesy of Annie Sloan
1.
As the name suggests, it dries with a soft matte, chalky finish.
The formula comes premixed and can be applied with a brush or a roller.
Credit:Courtesy of Annie Sloan
Annie Sloan
Chalk Paint bathes walls in a soft, velvety embrace.
Its all about the patina.
A matte finish absorbs light rather than reflecting it.
Credit:DANIEL PETER
They will be matte but can be buffed for a subtle sheen.
DANIEL PETER
2.
Limewash
This weathered finish is made from crushed burned limestone, natural pigments, and water and iszero-VOC.
Credit:Annie Schlechter
Sarah Sherman Samuel
Nothing compares to the organic texture limewash brings to a space.
you’re able to apply limewash directly over surfaces like brick and stucco.
On nonporous, painted surfaces or new drywall, apply a special lime prep coat.
Credit:MADELINE TOLLE
In high-traffic areas, a sealer is recommended.
Portola Paints and JH Wall also offer a range of great limewash options.
Annie Schlechter
3.
Credit:REID ROLLS
(Always use a mask when mixing powdered formulas.)
If youre painting over an already painted or sealed surface, consider a bonding agent.
The Old Fashioned Milk Paint Company has a wide range of colors to choose from.
Credit:STEPHEN KARLISCH
MADELINE TOLLE
4.
Jaqui Seerman
In the design of any space, balancing aesthetics with functionality is crucial.
Venetian plaster is applied in multiple thin layers with a trowel to achieve a marble-like surface.
It does require a primer for proper adhesion.
Both protect the plaster from dirt and stains, leaving the finish water-resistant and wipeable.
REID ROLLS
5.
Roman clay is similar to Venetian plaster but with a more organic quality.
(It is also recommended to seal it if using in a high-traffic area.)
STEPHEN KARLISCH
6.
(It is still used to cover the walls of hammams, or bathhouses.)
Today it comes as a powder you mix with water and apply with a trowel.
(Wear a mask when mixing.)
Urbanology Designs used tadelakt from Color Atelier to evoke a serene retreat in a walk-in shower,above.
Made from lime, marble, clay, and other natural materials, its also low-VOC.
The finish is similar to other plasters but glossier and with less visual movement.
