How to Do a DIY Faux Limewash Technique, Step by Step

Hannah.is.home
by Hannah.is.home

Welcome to this step-by-step tutorial on achieving a faux lime wash effect for your walls. This technique adds depth and character to your space, mimicking the timeless appeal of traditional lime-washed walls.


With just a few supplies and some patience, you can transform any room into a rustic haven. Let's dive in!

Tools and materials

  • 1 gallon of flat paint (mixed normally)
  • 1 gallon of flat paint (mixed 25% with the same color as normal)
  • 1 large masonry brush
  • Paint tray
  • Painter's tape

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by preparing your workspace. Lay down drop cloths to protect your floors and furniture. Use painter's tape to create a divider in your paint tray, ensuring that the two paint mixtures don't blend together.

Mixing the paint

Step 2: Mix Your Paint

Pour the normal color paint into one side of the paint tray and the 25% mixture into the other side. This setup will allow you to easily dip your brush into both colors while keeping them separate.

Loading the large masonry brush with paint

Step 3: Load Your Brush

Dip the tip of your masonry brush very lightly into the paint. It's crucial to avoid loading the brush with too much paint; you want it to be almost dry. The tape divider will enable the brush to pick up a little of each color.

Applying the paint in an X pattern

Step 4: Apply the Paint

Begin applying the paint to your walls using an X pattern. There's no right or wrong way to do this—aim for a dynamic, varied pattern with plenty of motion. Blend out any hard lines as you work, creating a natural, washed-out effect.

Building layers with additional coats

Step 5: Build Layers

Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying additional coats. Depending on the desired depth of color and coverage, you may need to apply 2-3 more coats. Each layer will enhance the richness and texture of the faux lime wash.

Cleaning up the mess

Step 6: Final Touches

Once you're satisfied with the coverage and appearance of your faux lime wash, remove any painter's tape and allow the paint to dry completely. Stand back and admire your handiwork—the walls now boast a beautifully textured, rustic finish reminiscent of traditional lime wash.

Before
DIY faux lime wash effect

DIY faux lime wash effect

Congratulations! You've successfully mastered the art of creating a DIY faux lime wash effect. While this process may not be the quickest, the results are well worth the time and effort invested.


Whether you're aiming for a cozy farmhouse feel or a Mediterranean-inspired aesthetic, enjoy your newly transformed walls and leave me a comment to let me know if you’re pleased with the results.


Follow @hannah.is.home on Instagram for more DIY ideas.

Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
  1 question
  • Deborah A Erhard Deborah A Erhard on Aug 26, 2024
    How do you get the plaster look before you use your painting technique?
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