Ready to transform your ceiling using our budget-friendly lime wash ceiling technique? Lime washing a pecky cypress ceiling is an easy way to add charm and character to any room.
Imagine the beautiful variations of color, the natural wood grain peeking through, and the unique, custom look you’ll create—all with just paint and water!
In this blog, I’ll guide you through each step of the process, from prepping your room to applying the final strokes of color.
You’ll learn how to select the perfect shades, mix the paint to the right consistency, and use a simple technique that brings out the natural beauty of your wood ceiling.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner looking to tackle a new project, this guide will help you achieve stunning results.
Are you ready to get started on transforming your ceiling into a breathtaking focal point that will leave everyone in awe!
The reason we call this our budget-friendly lime wash ceiling is that I’m going to show you how to do this with just paint and water.
Step #1:
Before diving into your lime wash project, it’s essential to prep the room to keep things tidy and stress-free. Lime washing with thinned-down paint can be a bit messy, so you’ll want to protect your surroundings.
First, hang plastic sheeting from the ceiling to shield your walls from splatters. If you have a chandelier or light fixture, wrap it in plastic too. Don’t forget to cover the floor with drop cloths or paper to catch any drips.
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry—you definitely don’t want to repaint an entire room because of stray paint!
Quick Tip: Use Frog Tape to hang the plastic sheeting. This low-tack tape is gentle on your walls and won’t peel off the paint.
Next, you’ll need to decide on the paint colors you’ll use. I recommend selecting no more than three different colors to keep the look cohesive.
For this project, we chose flat paint in Crème de Mint, Caribbean Mist, and Calypso Teal. We use Benjamin Moore flat paint.
Mix each color in separate buckets, combining three parts paint to one part water to thin it down. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add more water until it reaches the consistency of milk.
Step #3: Apply the Paint
Using a lime wash brush apply the thinned paint to the wood in a linear fashion, leaving some areas uncovered for the other colors. This technique will create a layered, textured look that highlights the wood’s natural beauty.
Step #4:
Using a damp terry cloth rag (I cut up an old towel), gently wipe off the excess paint to reveal some of the wood grain underneath.
Next, apply the remaining colors sporadically over the first layer. Again, use your damp rag to remove any excess paint, allowing the different hues to blend naturally while showcasing the wood’s texture.
Here’s a close-up of the ceiling. Notice the stunning variations in color and how beautifully the wood peeks through. The interplay of Crème de Mint, Caribbean Mist, and Calypso Teal creates a dynamic, layered effect that highlights the natural texture and grain of the pecky cypress.
This technique not only adds depth and character but also brings a unique, custom look to your space. The subtle blending of hues and the exposed wood creates a rustic yet elegant charm that’s sure to impress.
Lime washing a pecky cypress ceiling is a fantastic way to bring character and charm to your space on a budget. By carefully selecting your paint colors, thinning them to the right consistency, and applying them with a mindful technique, you can achieve a beautiful, textured finish that showcases the natural beauty of the wood.
Remember to take your time with the prep work to protect your room, and don’t be afraid to experiment with color application to find the perfect balance for your aesthetic. This DIY project is not only rewarding but also allows you to create a custom look that reflects your personal style.
So, gather your supplies, follow the budget-friendly lime wash ceiling technique, and transform your ceiling into a stunning focal point. Happy lime washing!
Have you ever thought about lime-washing your brick home? The results are amazing!
BTW: you can achieve this with any raw wood. Did you enjoy this budget-friendly ceiling makeover? I’d love to know.
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XOXO
Cheryl
