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Fresco lime paint
Indulge in warm, timeless spaces that captivate with rich colour and movement using lime paint
Description
Embrace the timeless elegance of limewash paint, historically used across Europe and the Mediterranean for its durability, strength, and colour fastness. Fresco lime paint is 100% mineral, water-based, and made from natural lime, water, and mineral pigments. It is appreciated for its eco-friendly nature, traditional wall finishes, and historical significance. Pure & Original Fresco lime paint stands out due to its high lime content, which yields a rich, limestone texture and depth.
What the finish looks like
Fresco dries to a velvety matte, slightly textured surface with a characteristic cloudy depth that shifts subtly with the light and the angle of application. No two applications look exactly the same, providing a distinctly bespoke look. The near-zero sheen gives the wall a raw, organic quality similar to aged European plaster or traditional limewashed stone.
Characteristics
- A naturally aged, matte finish with authentic lime-wash brushed styles, from vertical strokes and crosshatch to “Al Fresco” for more colour nuances and a lime wash.
- Over 190 naturally pigmented colours with a hint of lime gray and unique colour shading that varies per colour.
- A breathable, antibacterial, antifungal, and air-purifying surface due to the high pH of limestone.
- A water-repellent and washable paint after saturation with the Dead Flat Eco Sealer.
- Paint made from high-quality natural ingredients in our 100% solar-powered factory.
Sample options and pro-tips
Colour accuracy:
Lime-based paints may appear lighter than on the colour card but finishes like Dead Flat Eco Sealer will darken the colour. Shade variation depends on colour and application; dark colours reveal lime shading, light colours show subtle variations, and whites exhibit minimal or no variations in colour.
Samples recommended:
Digital screens are not a reliable source for colour selection. It’s best to order our hand-painted colour card.
300 ml sample pots are also available for purchase exclusively at the online store to test for accurate coverage and colour representation on your surface and light conditions.
Surface preparation:
Fresco will not properly adhere to synthetic or sealed surfaces, including drywall, sheetrock, previously painted walls, standard primers, and other non-mineral substrates. Applying Fresco without Wallprim (or Omniprim) may result in poor adhesion, uneven absorption, or premature failure of the finish.
We also recommend practicing on a sample board prior to starting your project to achieve your desired finish. If you are uncomfortable with DIY, ask your installer to create a sample board for you.
Theoretical coverage:
One liter of Classico covers about 108 ft2/based on a single coat. Two coats are the standard.
Coverage may vary depending on the underground, application technique, and dilution.
Touch up Fresco lime paint:
Little accidents can happen; check our touch-up recommendations here.
| Usage areas |
Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, hallways, feature walls, powder rooms; bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial spaces with sealer |
|---|---|
| Best for |
Homeowners and designers who want the genuine limewash look — soft, layered, and imperfect; organic modern, Mediterranean, wabi-sabi, and heritage interiors; confident DIYers; decorative painters It’s also suitable for commercial spaces
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| Not ideal for |
Anyone wanting flat, uniform colour with no texture or tonal variation; high-traffic surfaces without sealing; exterior use in challenging climates |
| Skill level |
Intermediate — application technique directly affects the final look; test on a sample board first |
| Required system products |
Wallprim primer on most substrates (required); Dead Flat Eco Sealer for bathrooms, kitchens, and areas subject to moisture or wear and tear |
| Finish outcome |
Velvety matte; soft, layered tonal variation with a cloudy, organic depth; near-zero sheen; finish reads differently in different light conditions |
| Maintenance / washability |
Not a washable finish without sealing; light dust and dirt removable with a dry or damp cloth; avoid scrubbing during the 28-day cure period; apply Dead Flat Eco Sealer for any surface needing moisture resistance or wipeability |
Frequently Asked Questions about Fresco Lime Paint
Visit our FAQ page for more information.
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What is the difference between Fresco lime paint and Marrakech Walls plaster paint?
The difference between Fresco lime paint and Marrakech Walls, a lime-plaster-paint, is mainly the texture. Fresco lime paint provides a brushed effect, while Marrakech Walls offers a more tactile, concrete-like texture. Both are beautiful in their own unique way, providing a rustic charm and sophisticated elegance to any space. Learn more here.
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What is Fresco lime paint?
Pure & Original Fresco lime paint is a distinctive, eco-friendly paint made from 100% mineral limestone, showcasing its versatility and sustainable characteristics. This unique paint offers a velvety matte, textured finish and comes in over 190 rich, naturally pigmented colours. Unlike conventional paints, lime paint is breathable, preventing moisture buildup and promoting a healthier indoor environment. With its historical roots tracing back to ancient Rome and Greece, lime paint has stood the test of time, providing both aesthetic appeal and environmental consciousness.
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How can lime-painted wall textures enhance the look and feel of a room?
The velvety finish of lime paint, sometimes known as limewash paint, brings depth and character to walls. Natural colour variations contribute to a warm and inviting living space, while the lime texture creates a timeless, aged look, evoking a sense of history, authenticity, and sophistication. If a lime wash application is desired, you can dilute lime paint with water. Best yet, the breathable nature and high pH of lime paint prevent issues like mould growth and contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
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How do you apply Fresco lime paint?
To apply Fresco lime paint, start with a clean and primed surface. Ensure proper adhesion by using our Wallprim primer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for stirring, and apply it evenly using a specialty block brush or cotton cloth—avoid using a roller or spray. To achieve authentic lime brushed textures, try vertical strokes, crisscross strokes, or Al Fresco for more colour nuances and a lime wash. Allow the lime paint to dry thoroughly. For a darker colour and added protection, use a sealer finish like Dead Flat Eco Sealer.
For detailed instructions, refer to the Fresco technical data sheet.
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Does lime paint work on drywall?
Yes, Fresco can be applied to standard drywall, but Wallprim primer is required first. Fresco’s mineral chemistry does not adhere well to synthetic surfaces without this preparation step. Synthetic latex primers and paint are not compatible and should not be substituted.
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Can Fresco be used in a bathroom?
Yes, with sealing. Lime is naturally breathable, antibacterial, and mould-resistant, which makes it well suited to humid rooms. However, because the finish is open and absorbs moisture and grease, Dead Flat Eco Sealer should be applied in bathrooms and kitchens. Do not use Fresco inside a shower cabin, even with sealing — it is not suitable for direct water contact.
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Is Fresco lime paint an eco-friendly paint?
Fresco lime paint is an all-natural, VOC-free, and eco-friendly option made from slaked limestone and organic pigments. Great for interior spaces with a naturally high pH, it promotes a healthy living environment by being breathable, antibacterial, antifungal, air-purifying, and capable of absorbing nitrogen and CO2 gasses. This water-based mineral paint is 100% recyclable, making it a sustainable and circular choice.
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What are the benefits of using lime paint versus traditional paint?
Lime paint offers numerous benefits compared to traditional paint, making it an increasingly popular and environmentally conscious choice. Composed of natural ingredients such as slaked lime and organic natural pigments, lime paint is breathable, anti-bacterial, and antifungal, promoting a healthier indoor environment. Its recyclability and zero VOC content contribute to its eco-friendly profile, while its natural mineral composition provides a unique and textured finish. With the ability to absorb CO2 during the drying process, lime paint not only enhances indoor air quality but also showcases sustainability by acting as a circular paint. The longevity and durability of lime paint make it an attractive option for those seeking a lasting and aesthetically pleasing alternative to conventional paints.
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Can I touch up Fresco lime paint?
Touching up lime paint requires some creativity; we have some recommendations.
- Assess the damage: Determine the size and depth of the damage on the lime-painted surface. For small areas, a touch-up may suffice, while larger areas may require more extensive work or even a completely new coat. Touch up:
- Prepare the Surface: Soften the edges of the damage by light sanding. Clean the area to remove any dust or debris.
- Use Primer if needed: For damage that affected the primer as well, apply Wallprim to the patch area and let it dry for 4 hours.
- Apply Lime paint: Use a small amount on your brush. Apply it gently onto the damaged area, and blend it in the same direction as the existing brush strokes. Avoid overloading the brush to prevent drips and thick application. Depending on the depth of the damage, it may require a 2nd coat.
- Feather the Edges: After applying the paint, feather out the edges by lightly brushing in the same direction as the original brushstrokes. This helps blend the new paint with the existing colour and texture, creating a seamless look.
- Let Dry: Allow the area to dry fully before judging the result. Lime paint needs time to cure.
- Check the result: Once dry, check if the touch-up matches the surrounding area. If necessary, you can apply additional coats or sand it lightly to achieve the desired look.