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Typically used for traditional buildings which need to breathe to prevent dampness lime wash is made from lime putty (calcium hydroxide or slaked lime). Ingredients such as linseed oil, tallow and caesin are sometimes added to improve water resistance. It has a matte finish. Note that lime is HIGHLY caustic. Be careful!
- 2 1/4 pounds (1 kg) lime putty
- 2 quarts (2 litres) water
- 7 ounces (200g) lime tolerant pigment
Note that only lim tolerant pigments can be used - this usually means earth pigments, ochres, ubers and the like. This recipe should cover about 130 - 26 square feet (12 to 24 square meters).
Slake the pigment. For a lighter color use less pigment but do not exceed the amount in the recipe.
Add water to the lime puttyand sift to remove grit. Add pigment slowly with an electric mixer. Once mixed it can be stored indefinitly. Surface to be painted must be scrupulously clean.
At least 4 coats will be required, let each coat dry for 24 to 48 hours and spray with water to moisten before painting each successive coat.
It will appear dry and durty for a few days until it's taken in enough CO2 and has completed carbonation at which point it will be as of it were a coat of solid limestone.
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