If you are looking for an alternative to chemical-based interior paint, consider making your own. Homemade paint is the greenest and least toxic alternative possible to traditional store bought chemical paint. Homemade paints aren't based upon petrochemicals and they're far less toxic than most commercial paints including the zero\ VOC paints that have flooded the market.

Homemade milk paint can transform old furniture into an item of beauty. Milk paint has been around since the cavemen days. Egyptians and the American colonists used milk paint for painting just about everything. In modern times milk paint has again become popular for people who want to take a stand in protecting the environment and doing things differently.

The ingredients for homemade paints vary. This basic recipe consists of lime, water, pigment, and milk. To add additional body to the paint as filler, add chalk powder or plaster.

· The basic recipe for milk paint:

· Hydrated lime (available at most home and garden supply stores)

· Water

· Pigment (powder or liquid)

· Whole milk (at room temperature)

Mix lime with water using a stirring stick or plastic spatula.

Add one to two cups of hydrated lime. Add just water and stir until you have a thick paste.

In a separate container, do the same with the pigment powder. Use 2 to 4 tablespoons of pigment for a small batch such as a quart.

Gradually add milk to the lime paste until the consistency of sour cream is attained. Then add the pigment paste and mix thoroughly.

You can buy pigments at many hardware or artist supply stores. Avoid using pigments made from toxic compounds, otherwise you'll defeat the purpose of making your own paint.

See related articles:

How to Avoid Paint Roller Ridge Marks

How to Estimate Paint Requirements

How to Choose the Safest Paint

How to Clean Latex Painted Walls

How to Dispose of Unused Paint