Like the idea of painted old wood furniture or adding paint to your other DIY projects, but don’t like the idea of using toxic VOC-filled paints?

Consider milk paint instead. That’s right. Milk. Paint. Milk paints are water-based paints that are made from milk and lime with added pigments. It’s been around for thousands of years and was even used by early humans to create cave paintings and other decorative objects. Many people most likely associate the paint finish with colonial-era furniture and finishes. The advent of petrochemicals saw the rise of oil-based and acrylic paints, but milk-based paints are again gaining in popularity for those looking to avoid VOC-laden paints that are also difficult to dispose of safely.

While it is possible to make your own homemade milk based paint, if you are so inclined, it’s also possible (and way easier) to purchase it if you are looking for a more consistent product, or need to cover a larger area. Buyer beware, though, some suppliers sell paint that creates a milk-like paint effect, but which still contain VOC-producing chemicals. Both Real Milk Paint Company and Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint are both non-toxic and contain no VOCs.

Milk-based paints, which generally produces a delicious saturated matte effect, come in powdered form and must be mixed with water before use. But don’t let this necessary step deter you. The process is actually pretty simple as demonstrated by Dwayne Siever, founder of Real Milk Paint Company, in this video tutorial.

The paint works well for both furniture refinishing projects as well as on walls. There are special considerations when painting on walls, like whether you are painting directly on drywall or not, the type of joint compound used, and more. It’s probably best to do some research first before deciding to tackle painting your walls with the paint.

Milk-based paint is definitely ideal for DIY furniture projects of all kinds. From creating a Union Jack buffet to painting up a child’s dollhouse with a safe non-toxic alternative, the Internet is awash in inspiration. Here are a few of our favorite DIY projects to get your creativity working overtime.

Milk Paint Projects

1. Milk Paint Kitchen Cabinets
2. Distressed Dresser Layered Milk Paint
3. Plank Wall with Milk-Based Paint
4. Milk Paint Piano
5. Two Toned Dresser

Related on EcoSalon

7 Simple Rules for Picking Wall Paint Colors
Try These 3 Low VOC Interior Paint Brands for Your Next Fall Project
Is Plywood a Sustainable and Elevated Design Material?

Milk Paint Colors Image via Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint

The post Non-Toxic DIYing with Milk Paint? appeared first on EcoSalon.

Seeing a love of the water on land.

Art, sand and the sea come together in this short by Red Reel Video, as they follow artist Alejandro Gonzalez through his work in Baja, Mexico, bringing the wonders of the ocean to the surface.

Drawings on the Wall from RED REEL on Vimeo.

The post Video: Drawings on the Wall appeared first on EcoSalon.

Let me paint you a picture: You’re at the paint store. After sorting through thousands of slightly different colors and arduously selecting the perfect tint or shade to embellish your bedroom walls, the indifferent sales clerk asks, “What finish do you want?” Wait, what? You are already emotionally exhausted from sorting through heaps of colors. Dearest reader, let me help.

Choosing the right paint finish is dictated by two things, appearance and function. Finish options range from dull matte to overwhelming sheen.

FLAT paint provides a smooth, matte finish that softens facades and disguises surface imperfections. This finish is difficult to keep clean, so avoid high traffic areas (children and pets will not get along well with flat finish paint). Flat paint is less durable than other options, so keep a reserve of the paint for touch ups. This finish absorbs light and is ideal for hiding bumps, cracks, and flaws.

“¢ Suitable for (adult) bedrooms, dining rooms, formal living rooms, libraries, and ceilings.

EGGSHELL/PEARL/SATIN finishes are similar to flat, but with an added hint of sheen and a large dose of functionality. This cleanable, velvety finish has a charming texture and is ideal for high traffic areas.

“¢ Suitable for hallways, bedrooms (even children’s), family rooms, living rooms, powder rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and woodwork.

SEMIGLOSS paint is lustrous and durable, perfect for areas that are exposed to moisture and get cleaned frequently.

“¢ Suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, utility areas, laundry rooms, doors, trim, and woodwork.

GLOSS paint is an extremely hard and durable finish that exudes a glossy, shiny luster. Gloss finish reflects light and tends to magnify imperfections, so meticulous sanding and surface preparation is essential.

“¢ Suitable for woodwork, trim, floors, cabinets, doors, and furniture.

ADDITIONAL WISDOM

Because the different finishes absorb and reflect light in different ways, consider the lighting of your space when selecting your sheen. For example, if your dining room has very dim lighting, the space will benefit from a finish with enough gloss to subtly reflect light. In this scenario, an eggshell finish would add a little more sparkle and ambiance than a flat finish.

Add a handful of contrast and dimension to any room by combining several paint finishes. Cover the ceiling with a flat finish to hide surface flaws. Use an eggshell or satin finish on walls for a functional surface with a bit of shine. Select a semigloss finish for doors, trim, and woodwork for a durable, easy to clean surface. Using different sheens within a space is aesthetically pleasing, but ultimately it’s a functional solution, too.

Need a few more tips? The EcoSalon archives offer great painting advice. How about a guide to eco-friendly paints? Or a little color guidance? Grab your paintbrush!

(Photographs by Emma Lee of Pearson Lyle Management.)

The post Shine and Sheen appeared first on EcoSalon.

In my household, we love decorating almost as much as we love our homemade java. We even get giddy when it’s time to paint – well, not the actual act of painting, that can be boring. We get excited over the endless possibilities and the fresh new look. We’re huge fans of eco-friendly paint, so the next time you’re thinking of taking on a redecorating project, here’s everything you need to know about finding the right type of paint for your project.

Buh-Bye VOC’s

VOC’s, the solvents used to make standard paint are fumey and gag-worthy, not to mention a proven health hazard. Fortunately, companies like YOLO Colorhouse, Benjamin Moore and Freshaire Choice have come up with VOC-free paint that’s less harmful to the environment and far better for people and animals. In fact, we’ve named low VOC paints as one of the top 20 greenest materials on the market.

If it’s spray paint you need for smaller projects, there are a few lower-toxicity ones out there if you dig around. They’re not completely risk-free, but they’re far better than what you’ll find in a standard can of the spray stuff.

Can I Have Cookies With That?

Milk paint is a big favorite around here. Originally made from milk, lime and earth, and used in cave paintings, milk paint has been around for centuries. There are many different ways to make your own, including a super-simple method that uses just two ingredients: nonfat dry milk and water. Of course, you can always spring for a pre-made batch from green businesses like The Real Milk Paint Company.

Painting Frenzy

There are a ton of ways to use your eco-friendly paint around the house. Color an accent wall, decorate mirrors and glass, or spruce up the entire place before putting it on the market. No matter what kind of project you tackle, check out some color tricks you can use to make the most out of your rooms.

Images: Photocapy, Mess of Pottage, redeye, and lejoe

The post Everything You Need to Know About Eco-Friendly Paint appeared first on EcoSalon.