Clay Paints:

Clay paints are usually applied over an earthen plaster, but can also be applied over conventional plasters. They are made from a mixture of clay (natural clay and processed clays), water and additives. You can use natural colors or the paint can be tinted with pigments and oxides.

Additives such as mica and straw add artistic accents, and can break up unwanted monotony. Wheat paste and casin are added for wall strength and durability.

Why use clay paints over conventional paints?

• Clay paints have no VOC's. This means that the people who apply it don't have to deal with harmful gases that are released when a chemical substance is applied in a house.
• Clay paints give you an alternative to a basic brown earthen plaster.
• Both allow for accents in rooms with different colors, textures and effects, yet with clay paints these atributes are unlimited, and most find the clay to be more appealing.
• It is better to seal your walls using natural materials, compared to toxic products that are manufactured in a toxic environment.
• Clay paints provide a breathable protective coating on top of earthen plasters.
• Eliminating chemicals and other binders commonly found in conventional paints can increase your health.
• Cost effective

Are there any drawbacks to using clay over conventional paints?
Yes, but not many:

• Drying time is higher when using the clay paints in order to avoid the off-gasing effect in conventional paints.
• You may have to spend more time searching for clay paints and the companies like MudCrafters to apply it, since it is not as well known.

How is clay paint applied?
The earth plaster is put on before the clay paints. Clay paints are first mixed to a consistency slightly thicker than conventional paints. Then it is applied with larger, natural bristle brushes. The application must consist of a random pattern, yet evenly coated. There are usually two coats, followed by buffing with soft sponges for consistency in any visual efffect. Some paints are finished with casein or rubbed bee's wax.