How to Make a Lime Wash for Furniture

Whitewashing furniture is safer than traditional lime washing.

Lime wash is a lime-and-water solution used to give surfaces, such as brick walls and cement steps, a paler, whitewashed look. It also serves as a protective finish on these types of materials. Because of its caustic nature, lime wash is not suitable to use on wood furniture. A faux lime wash, commonly called "whitewash," is used instead. This wash is made of paint and water and is safe for use on furniture. It has the same effect as a traditional lime wash when it is properly made and applied.

Things You'll Need

• Flat latex paint
• 2-gallon bucket
• Water
• Bucket
• Paint stirrers

Instructions

1. Select an off-white, gray or antique white latex paint. It should have a flat sheen to give it the chalky, lime-like appearance. One-half to 1 gallon of paint should be sufficient for most projects.

2. Stir or shake the paint well and pour it into a 2-gallon bucket.

3. Add water to the paint until it is thinner but still creamy. A two-part-paint and one-part-water solution works well, but you can vary this slightly. The thinner the paint, the paler the finish.

4. Stir the water and paint until it is mixed thoroughly, and you are ready to whitewash your furniture.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use a ready-to-use liming wax that is less caustic than a traditional lime wash; it is safe to use on furniture.

References

• ArtSparx.com: Creating a Simulated Lime Wash Finish
• CalFinder Nationwide Remodelers: Ideas for Whitewashing Furniture
• Earth Pigments: Lime Wash
• This Old House: How to Lime a Table
• Design Sponge: Before and After Basics, Whitewash