How to Limewash Walls
Learn how to create elegantly textured walls using a limewash paint technique for a look that's suited for many interior design styles.
Limewash is a type of paint that contains limestone that has been crushed into a powder. Painted on walls using a special technique, it creates lightly textured walls with depth and slight color variation that mimic concrete, suede or Venetian plaster. Limewash paint creates an Old World vibe but can be used in any space, from traditional to modern to industrial or boho.
Jennie Andrews
Tools and Materials:
- deck staining brush
- lime wash paint (can either be made by adding lime to paint or bought pre-mixed)
- primer
- paintbrush
- roller
- painter’s tape
- rags
Jennie Andrews
1. Prime the Walls
Begin with a clean, primed surface. If your walls are already painted a color, you will need to prime them with white before beginning the lime wash. If your walls are already white, you can skip this step.
2. Paint the First Coat on the First Section
Starting in the upper left corner of the room, use a deck staining brush to make haphazard paint swipes in the shape of Xs and Ws. Swirl the brush onto the wall to create cloud-like strokes. Work in 3’ x 3’ sections and blend well before moving on.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
3. Move to the Next Section
Skip about a foot of the wall and begin painting the same technique on the next 3’ x 3’ section. Work the paint back into the first section, blending the two seamlessly. Working from left to right, repeat this action to reach the halfway point of the wall. Use a smaller brush if necessary to blend near baseboards and trim.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
4. Go to the Opposite Side
Move to the opposite side of the wall and begin the same action again. This time, however, work from right to left. Continue until the two sections meet in the middle. Blend the two sections well using the same X, W and cloud-shaped strokes. Let dry.
Jennie Andrews
Jennie Andrews
5. Apply a Second Coat
Repeat the whole process across the entire wall. The variation in color and texture should become more subtle after the second coat is fully dry. Once dry, small areas may need to be retouched using the same technique.
Jennie Andrews
6. Admire Your Style
With minimal effort and just a couple of materials, you’ve added depth and texture to your walls. Limewash walls pair well with a romantic, organic style full of natural materials and heirloom furniture. A minimal use of wall decor allows the simple beauty of the limewash to take center stage.
Jennie Andrews
