In the past few years, the popular limewash effect has made a comeback, becoming a trendy paint and finish. However, the art of this finish has existed since Roman times and is has been practiced in several cultures. It is a mineral and natural lime paint that can be easily applied on different surfaces.
The beauty of artisanal lime is reflected in the nuances that appear during its application; the brushstrokes, the marks of the trowels and the natural reaction of lime with the pigments create irregularities and subtle colour effects that can be appreciated by sight and touch, arousing a sensory experience.
There is a generalized inclination towards what comes from nature, purity and organic forms. Retail stores, restaurants and hotels are also joining the trend by adding character to their spaces with apparently worn, bare and uneven walls in both, industrial and bohemian designs.
Years ago, this limewash effect was associated with a more historic style. But today we are seeing limewash paired with cleaner, minimalist interiors which makes it both soft and refreshing.
Is it possible to achieve the limewash effect without hiring professional services?
Our answer is YES, Graphenstone makes it easy for you thanks to Siena, our natural lime-based paint specifically formulated to create limewash effects. Achieving this on-trend effect quickly and with a professional finish by yourself is now possible with Siena by Graphenstone.
You can enjoy the timeless beauty of slaked-lime and its matte finish with an easy application. Siena contributes to create healthy spaces thanks to its unique formula, that absorbs CO2 during the carbonation process and is free of preservatives and toxic substances. It is highly breathable and is made with Graphenstone technology for enhanced performance, flexibility and durability.
Siena is available in 16 colours inspired by Mother Earth that evoke the primary origins of nature: earth, sand, water stone and the passage of time on them.
How to use Siena to achieve a perfect limewash effect?
Surface preparation
Before getting started, make sure that the surface is dry, firm, well adhered and free of any impurities. If the substrate presents algae, mould, fungi and / or other impurities, it is recommended to do a thorough cleaning or treatment using specific products for this purpose.
Depending on the nature of the surface, the preliminary actions vary:
- If it is an old glossy or satin paint, slightly sanding and cleaning the surface is recommended.
- If it is an absorbent surface such as concrete block, brick or plaster, apply a first coat of AmbientPrimer.
- If the surface is very absorbent, such as clay, adobe or rammed earth, apply Minerseal.
- If the surface is wood, metal (without corrosion or oxidation) or non-porous, such as glazed tiles, phenolic panel, epoxy or polyurethane paints, our bonding primer Four2Four will be required.
Product preparation
To prepare the product, stir and thin with water to 0-5% of the product volume (0-50 ml of water per liter of product or 0-7fl.oz per gallon). Add water gradually until achieving the desired consistency. Ensure a homogeneous mixture. Avoid excessive shaking to minimize bubble occlusion. For pigmentation, add the liquid toner to the dilution of the product. Add some of the water to the pigment container to make sure no pigment remains in the containers.
Application method
Apply 2 coats with a brush, paint mitt, glove or sponge with soft and multi-directional gestures according to the desired effect, so that the paint load is not evenly distributed, enhancing the natural lime effect and its shadows. To intensify the colour effects, we recommend applying a coat of Graphenstone white paint beforehand.
Drying
As it is a lime-based paint, real hiding power will not be appreciated immediately after application. It is important to respect the drying time between coats (2-4 hours) to appreciate the coverage of the paint. The carbonation process mainly occurs during the first 30 days. Avoid cleaning and/or rubbing during that time.