How to Limewash

When I decided on a western theme for my basement bathroom, I really wasn’t sure where to start – but the limewash paint by James Alexander brought my vision to life!

This paint added so much depth and texture to my walls! It is fairly easy to apply and really affordable. I love the results and how my bathroom came together!

Materials:

Primer
Limewash
Densifier
Sealer (optional)

Tools:

Microfiber Rollers
Block Brush
Painter’s Tape
Paint Tray
Paint Pail
Paint Sticks

Step One: Prep Walls

Prep your walls by filling any holes, sanding, and taping your edges!

Step Two: Apply Primer

Do not skip this step! The primer creates a porous surface for the limewash to adhere to. Most surfaces only require 1 coat of primer.

To apply the primer, you can either use microfiber rollers or a block brush. We used microfiber rollers, and it went very quickly! Be careful, the primer is very thin and applying too much will lead to drips!

Step Three: Apply Limewash

First, there is no “right way” to do it! Apply in whatever pattern you prefer. We recommend watching YouTube videos to see how different patterns look. A popular approach is to create “clouds” and blend them together. We went with a cross-hatch pattern for our bathroom walls!

Once you have settled on your pattern, you are ready to get started! Apply the limewash using a block brush. We used a 4” Block Brush, but James Alexander also carries a 5.5” Block Brush. We chose the smaller size as the bathroom is a smaller space.

Keep in mind, limewash goes a LONG way – start with thin
coats. Spread it as far as it will naturally go!

When cutting in corners and edges, do not do a straight line like you would with regular paint. Work it into your pattern to keep the look seamless.

Make sure you are stirring frequently during application, the paint will settle.

Note: I cannot stress how far this paint will go! I barely put a dent in the gallon I had, I definitely could have done my space with a quart.

Limewash will become lighter as it dries. The first coat will probably look a bit splotchy, but that’s what the 2^nd and 3^rd coats are for!

Leave the first coat to dry for 24 hours before starting coat #2. Apply the 2^nd coat in the same pattern used for coat #1!

Important Note

When applying limewash, you want to keep a wet edge. If it dries and you overlap it, it will be darker. During the 2^nd and 3^rdcoats, keep a water bottle handy to spray the edges when they start drying.

Let the 2^nd coat dry for 24 hours before starting on coat #3! For coat #3, you will add in the densifier to help protect the finish. Mix 4 parts limewash with 1 part densifier. Apply with the block brush, in the same pattern used for coats 1 & 2.

Step Four: Apply Sealer (optional)

The sealer will allow your walls to be wipe-able! It will however slightly change the color and sheen, so do a test area before applying to the entire wall.

Since this is our basement bathroom, I wasn’t planning for a ton of toothpaste splatter! I decided to skip the sealer as I didn’t want to lose the matte look of the limewash.

Again, this step is totally optional, so consider what space you are limewashing to determine if it’s necessary! The sealer is applied with the block brush, in the same pattern you used during the limewash application. The sealer should only be applied AFTER the densifier step.

Limewash FAQs

What is limewash: Limewash paint has a lightly textured surface and matte finish. Limewash paint provides a wall finish with movement and variations in color.

Is it textured: Yes! The walls will have a chalky, textured finish.

Where can I used Limewash paint: Anywhere! Some surfaces are better for limewash than others, but that is where the primer comes in! The primer creates a porous surface for the limewash to adhere to. If you are applying to a surface that isn’t naturally porous (think drywall!), make sure you prime!

How is Limewash applied: Again, there is no “right way” to apply! Pick a pattern you like and stick to it. Use a block brush for the pattern application. Pick a block brush size appropriate for your space. I.e. for smaller spaces, use a smaller block brush!

Should I use a sealer: When deciding to seal your walls, you need to factor in whether or not you need your walls to be wipeable. A sealer will change the color and the sheen of the limewash, so if you want the surface to be as matte as possible, a sealer is probably not for you. You cannot touch up your walls after applying a sealer, you will need to prime again. As noted above, test the sealer in an inconspicuous spot BEFORE applying!

If you are looking for more information on how to limewash, fortunately James Alexander has a TON of instructions, including videos, how-to guides and more! Check out their guides & their products here!