Do I need a special primer?

We recommend using our Lime-Prep Primer as a way to help ensure the success of the adhesion of the plaster to the prepared wall surface. If your surface needs a sealing primer to cover color or seal an irregular material, we recommend using a water-based paint prior to the application of the Lime-Prep bonding primer.

What are Lime Paint coverage rates?

Coverage is typically 250-350 square feet per-gallon with two coats.

Should I use a sealer?

All of our sealers can be applied over our lime paint finish for an additional level of protection. There will be a slight sheen increase when using our matte sealer. If you want the surface as flat/matte as possible, adding a sealer may not be desirable. If you decide to use sealer, always test in an inconspicuous area before applying to the whole surface to ensure that the visual appearance of the sealer is acceptable for your project.

Does sealer or wax make Lime Paint walls washable?

Sealer allows walls to become a gently washable surface. We would not consider it a scrubbable surface.

Where is your Lime Paint made and where can I purchase?

James Alexander Lime Paint is made in the United States. We currently sell this product exclusively via our website.

Can I apply Lime Paint to difficult-to-adhere or glossy surfaces?

After proper preparation. If the surface is glossy or a known difficult surface to apply paint, you will likely need to apply a “bridging primer” before applying Lime-Prep Primer. There are several readily available products that will work for this application. The “bridging primer” should be a primer that is intended to prime “difficult to adhere to” surfaces and is suitable for a water based paint coating over the primer. After applying the bridging primer, you will be able to apply the Lime-Prep Primer and will then be able to finish the surface with lime paint. Please feel free to contact us if you'd like advice with prep.

How to touch-up or repair Lime Paint

Lime Paint creates a mottled color and is a naturally plaster-like uneven finish so touching up very small items like nail-holes can often work quite easily with a small detail brush. Larger areas of touch-up may require a re-coat of the wall with a new coat of lime paint to reduce a patched-in appearance. Make sure that if you sealed your lime paint, that you apply Lime-Prep at your touch-up area before applying the lime paint. You can touch-up over non-sealed lime paint without applying primer first. It is a good idea to test your method in an inconspicuous area before touching up in a more visible location. If you have questions, you can always contact us for tips.

Are all of your Lime Paint products water-based?

Yes, they are water based, and are soap & water clean-up.

With standard paints, VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions occur during paint application and the drying process, and may continue to off-gas even years after application. It's important to note that even paint labeled as "Low VOC" can emit VOCs, as they are only required to contain less than 50g/l of VOCs, and may still include intentionally added VOC-containing chemicals. Conversely, "Zero VOC" paints must contain less than 5g/l of VOCs, with no intentional addition of VOCs, although trace amounts may be present as residual components of other ingredients. But what exactly do we mean by trace amounts of VOCs? According to the Federal Trade Commission's guidance on zero-VOC claims, this refers to VOCs that have not been intentionally added to the product and do not cause material harm that consumers typically associate with VOCs. Additionally, the level of trace VOCs must be no more than that which is found as a trace contaminant or background level in the ambient air. Our Lime Paint products fall under the zero VOC category for paint products. We are committed to providing you with eco-friendly, low-VOC and zero-VOC paints that are designed to enhance your indoor air quality without sacrificing quality or performance.

Can I use Venetian Plaster in showers or wet-locations?

No, Lime Paint is not designed to be used in showers, exterior applications or anywhere that will pool water. It is exclusively designed as a paint for interior wall surfaces.

Non-sealed lime painted walls should be minimally touched and should not be washed. This surface can be dusted or spot washed only with a damp cloth. Be aware of surface damage when wiping. A refresh coat can be applied directly over existing lime paint as a method of long-term care as-needed. Sealed Lime Paint walls can be washed with a non abrasive cloth or sponge and PH neutral soap (such as mild dish soap) and water. The surface should never be scrubbed and washing should be as minimal as possible.