Answers to common questions about our Modern Lime Paint: what it is, how it compares to limewash, prep, application, coverage and care. See all FAQs.
What is Modern Lime Paint?
It's our modern take on a mineral lime finish: a true mineral wall paint with a thick, smooth, creamy consistency, pre-blended and ready to use. It's zero VOC with virtually no odor, and it dries to a durable matte finish.
What's the difference between lime paint and limewash?
Lime paint is creamier, carries deeper color, has a softer, more even texture, doesn't chalk and needs no Densifier. Traditional Limewash is thinner and chalkier, with more brush-stroke movement, and it can also be used on exterior masonry. Both are zero-VOC mineral finishes applied with a block brush.
See the side-by-side comparison →
Is lime paint good for beginners?
Yes. It's our recommended lime finish for first-timers because brush-stroke variation affects the result far less than with limewash. It's also low-splatter, so it stays where you put it.
Can I use lime paint outside?
No, Modern Lime Paint is interior only. For exterior brick, stone or stucco, choose our Traditional Limewash. Lime paint is also not heat or fire resistant.
What surfaces can I use lime paint on?
Interior walls and ceilings, on properly prepared drywall and wood. Drywall and previously painted surfaces should be primed with Lime-Prep Primer first.
Can I use lime paint on floors?
No. We don't recommend Modern Lime Paint for floors or any other surface you walk on.
Do I need a primer for lime paint?
Yes, on drywall and painted walls use one coat of Lime-Prep Primer, which bonds but doesn't seal. New drywall and patches need a water-based sealing primer, such as Thrive Primer, before Lime-Prep. Porous surfaces such as bare plaster generally don't need it. Choose White Lime-Prep for mid-tone and deeper colors, or Contrast Gray to give whites and lighter colors more movement.
How many coats of lime paint do I need?
Two coats. Let the first coat dry to the touch before applying the second; drying time depends on the room's temperature and humidity.
How much does a gallon of lime paint cover?
About 300 sq ft per gallon with two coats, about 75 sq ft per quart, and about 1,050 sq ft per 3.5-gallon pail. Coverage varies with how porous your surface is.
Can I apply lime paint with a roller?
No, use a block brush for the lime paint itself; a roller is fine for the primer. Stir well, cut in edges with a small brush, then brush in overlapping crisscross strokes, keeping a wet edge and finishing each wall corner to corner. Tools clean up with soap and water.
How to Apply Modern Lime Paint →
Do I need Densifier with lime paint?
No. Lime paint dries to a less chalky, durable matte finish right out of the can, so there's no Densifier step.
What does a lime paint finish look like?
A glowing, velvety matte with a nearly flat sheen, deep color and subtle movement from the brushed application. Calcite crystals that form as it cures refract light and give it its luminous glow.
Is lime paint washable?
No, lime paint is not a washable finish, so avoid scrubbing it. If you need a wall you can wash regularly, our Thrive Natural Interior Paint is washable.
Can I thin lime paint into a wash?
No, lime paint can't be thinned into a translucent wash. If you want a thinned wash that lets brick or wood show through, use Traditional Limewash.
What colors does lime paint come in, and can I get a sample?
Lime paint is formulated for a wider range of deeper, more saturated colors, from whites to plums and greens. Colors shift with your lighting, so we recommend brushing a 4 oz sample jar over a generous area of your wall, over the primer you plan to use.
Still have a question?
Our team is happy to help, Monday–Friday, 8 am–4 pm CST, at Support@JamesAlexanderPaint.com or 855-695-5333.
