If you’re looking for a way to add character and depth to your interior walls without going through the hassle of traditional limewash paint, Rust-Oleum’s Limewash Effect Wall Paint could be just what you need. In this review, I’ll be sharing my experience with this paint. This review will include my colour choices, application tips, and my honest thoughts on the final result.
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Why Choose Rust-Oleum Limewash Effect Wall Paint?
Rust-Oleum’s Limewash Effect Wall Paint is designed to recreate the natural, rustic look of traditional limewash. However, it has the convenience and ease of modern paint. For those who love the textured, chalky finish of limewash paints but are intimidated by the process of mixing and applying real limewash, this paint offers a simpler alternative.
One of the standout features of Rust-Oleum is the wide selection of colours available. When I first decided to try it, I wasn’t expecting such a range of options. After browsing their website, I picked five samples to get a sense of how they’d look in my space. I was aiming for a neutral, stone-like aesthetic. However, I was also prepared to go for something warmer like a terracotta shade.
For the terracotta shade, I went for No.380, which is described as a rich and inviting dark orange. For a pinker shade, I tried No.249 which is described as a delicate pink with a hint of peach. Then I went for three beige tones which were, No.098, (pale caramel with hints of brown), No.490 (deep brown with hints of warm orange) and No.193 (Mid caramel with a touch of orange).
Something to note is when the samples arrived, I noticed that the colours appeared much darker than they looked online. Keep that in mind if you’re selecting your shade from a screen. It is always worth testing in person first.
In the end, I chose the pinkish toned No.249. It’s got a plaster like hue to it, which was lighter than the browns of the other samples. I wasn’t quite brave enough to go for the wild card of terracotta. This turned out to be an unexpectedly bright orange!
Can You Apply Limewash Paint With a Roller?
Now, this is where things got interesting. In my early attempts, I wondered if I could speed up the process by using a roller for the first layer. Well, let me save you the trouble – don’t do it! I tried, and the result was weird. The roller didn’t create the textured, layered look that’s so characteristic of limewash paints. Instead, it ended up looking flat and patchy. The best way to apply Rust-Oleum Limewash Effect Paint is definitely with a brush. This helps to create the beautiful, uneven texture that mimics traditional limewash and gives your walls that sought-after, weathered finish.
The Application Process
One of the big advantages of Rust-Oleum’s paint is its ease of use. Traditional limewash can be a bit of a faff – you have to mix it up yourself, and the application can be tricky to get right. Rust-Oleum’s version, however, comes pre-mixed and ready to go. I found it went on smoothly and wasn’t too difficult to apply, even as a beginner.
That being said, there were a few challenges, particularly around the edges of the room. Areas like plug sockets, skirting boards, and corners required extra care, as the brush strokes are more noticeable. This isn’t a paint you can slap on quickly – you need to take your time, especially around the edges, to avoid obvious brush marks.
My Main Gripe – Coverage and Cost
While I’m generally pleased with the Rust-Oleum Limewash Effect Wall Paint, I do have one main complaint: the coverage. The standard 2.5L tub didn’t go nearly as far as I expected. The room I was painting is quite small, about 3 square metres (it’s a little single bedroom I use as an office). However, I ran out of paint when I was doing the second coat, with one wall left to do.
This meant I had to buy a second tub, which cost me another £65. In total, I spent £130 just to paint a small room – and that’s a significant investment. If you’re planning to use this paint in a larger room, be prepared to buy multiple tubs, which can add up quickly. For a small space like mine, one tub was not enough, so definitely factor that into your budget. It is a shame that Rust-Oleum does not do other quantities and sizes. This way you would be able to choose how much you require more wisely. I now have quite a lot of the second tub of paint left over, which now seems a waste.
Where to Buy Limewash Paint?
If you’re wondering where to buy limewash paint, Rust-Oleum Limewash Effect Wall Paint is widely available from various retailers. You can find it online through their own website or from popular DIY stores like B&Q, Amazon, or Homebase.
Final Thoughts
Despite the cost and coverage issues, I’m happy with the overall look and feel of the room. I now feel like my small boring office space is trendy with a new lease of life. The limewash pinkish tone of No.249 gives the space a warm, cosy vibe, though I do wish the colour had been a touch lighter. Even with the lighter shade I chose, the room still feels darker than expected, so if you’re considering a darker shade, be mindful that it may absorb more light than you want. If you’re after a bright, airy room, I’d definitely recommend choosing a lighter shade.
The texture and finish of the paint are what really stand out. The chalky, matte effect adds a lovely, rustic charm to the room, and it does a great job of disguising any imperfections on the walls. If you’ve got an older house like mine with walls that aren’t completely smooth, this paint is perfect for covering up cracks and blemishes while adding a bit of character.
Overall, Rust-Oleum Limewash Effect Wall Paint is a great choice if you’re after a stylish, textured look without the hassle of traditional limewash. It’s especially good for DIY beginners who want a high-end finish without dealing with the complexities of mixing their own paint. Just be prepared for the extra cost if you’re covering a large space!
Recommendations
- Best for Small Rooms: If you’re working in a small space, like I was, two tubs should be enough, though it’s still on the pricier side.
- Go for Lighter Shades: Even light colours can turn out darker, so keep that in mind when choosing your shade.
- Brush Application Only: For the best results, avoid using a roller – stick with a brush for that authentic limewash effect.
In the end, I would recommend this paint to anyone looking to add a bit of texture and charm to their interiors, as long as you’re prepared for the price. It’s a beautiful effect, and while it takes a bit of time and care to apply, the end result is well worth the effort.
