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homebrewed natural finishes are made from a variety of common
foodstuffs and earth, plant and animal derivatives. These finishes
have no added synthetic compounds or chemicals nor do they offgass
at any point in their lifecycle. The typical odors from VOCs
found in conventional finishes are replaced with fresh, natural
and some time’s unusually enchanting aromatics.
Why do I make these? Besides being healthier
both directly and indirectly, I enjoy the sense of independence
and esthetic values that can’t be duplicated with synthetics.
Perhaps more important is the awareness it brings to alternative
methods and the satisfaction of knowing I am not supporting
the chemical manufacturing giants.
How did I get started? My interest in making
natural finishes was spurred after learning to replicate Native
American paints for my bows
in the late 90’s. With an ongoing curiosity, I have
since experimented with hundreds of combinations of milk paints,
dyes, stains, patinas, polishes and earthen plasters. Holding
high admiration for the ingenuity and incredible resourcefulness
of traditional cultures, all my finishes have been influenced
in one way or another by primitive techniques.
Making your own. Concocting your own finishes
is not difficult. It just takes a little time, willingness
to experiment and a good book. For paints, stains and more,
take a look at The Natural Paint Book
by Lynn Edwards and Julia Lawless. For plasters as well as
other finishes, try The Natural Plaster Book
by Cedar Rose Guelberth, Dan Chiras and Deanne Bednar. Give
it a shot. It's fun!
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pic of
finish materials will go here
Could
even the smallest amount of certain chemicals, or combination
of several, be the culprit to some of the many birth defects
and pregnancy complications that have no known cause?
There is no hard proof, but a growing number of scientists are
casting their suspicions. While chemicals are found in thousands
of commonly used products, for those parents-to-be who enjoy
crafting or art, the type of paint used might be worthy of special
consideration. A common misconception is that acrylic and latex-based
paints are benign. Even though some acrylics may be “safer”
than others, not all are toxin free. And while latex-based paints
are some times lower in VOCs than oil-based paints, they are
still laden with varying chemicals. Paints marked "Low
VOCs" are only slightly better. Of commercially
available paints, "Zero VOC" milk paints are the "safest"
available and over all, the most ecologically sound. And
given the effects conventional paints have on indoor
air quality, milk paints are also the logical choice for
those anxious to ready their child's nursery.
A
basic yet informative environmental
study of paint can be found here.
The Duke University Medical Center listserve also has a discussion
on acrylics
& pregnancy. General information
on chemicals can be found here at Society's
Chemical Oblivion.
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