How
to apply limewash
HOW TO APPLY
Limewash offers a stunning, breathable, and ancient finish for masonry and plaster, known for its soft, mottled texture. However, proper application is crucial for the best results, preventing issues like dusting and ensuring a quicker cure. These steps, demonstrated in the videos, will guide you through the process, from loading your brush to applying a perfect, sheer coat
Loading the Brush: Getting the Right Amount
Dip only the tips
Carefully dip the ends of the bristles into the limewash. You only want the bottom third to half of the bristles coated
Gentle Tap / shake off
Hold the brush over the bucket and give it a gentle tap against the inside rim. This allows any excess limewash to drip off and ensures the bristles aren't overloaded
The Goal
The bristles should be saturated enough to hold a charge for a good stroke, but not so wet that they are dripping heavily when you lift the brush
Holding the Brush:
Lightness is Key
The technique you use to hold the brush directly impacts the finish. Limewash is not like paint; it should be applied as a sheer stain, not a thick covering.
Hold the handle
Hold the wooden handle with a comfortable, firm, but not white-knuckle grip. The hand shown in the video is wearing a glove for protection, which is always a good idea.
Use minimal pressure
Using minimum weight on the bristles helps you achieve those thin, "almost see-through" coats described in the next step. Pressing too hard will force too much material onto the surface, creating thick spots that won't cure properly and are more prone to dusting.
Application: Sheer Coats for a Perfect Finish
apply almost see-through coats
to avoid dusting and provide maximum opportunity to dry out quicker (as seen in the last video).
The "Scrubbing" Motion
Limewash is typically applied using a random, cross-hatch, or scrubbing motion, as shown in the video. This prevents visible brush lines and creates the desirable mottled, matte look.
Sheer Coverage
The first coat, as demonstrated, will look very thin and translucent—almost like a wash. This is exactly right. You are not aiming for opaque coverage on the first coat. Thin coats allow the limewash to cure properly by reacting with the carbon dioxide in the air
Avoid Dusting
Thick, heavy coats dry on the surface before fully carbonating (curing), which leaves a powdery residue that easily rubs off—known as dusting. Thin coats ensure the material fully hardens, making the finish durable.
Drying Time
Thin coats also dry and cure much quicker, allowing you to apply subsequent coats sooner. Depending on the conditions, you will likely need to apply 2-3 coats to achieve the desired depth of colour and coverage.
