What do beer, lime and milk all have in common? Give up? You can actually make PAINT with all three. For real.

Talk about natural. Beer and milk can be found in the fridge. And lime (the stone) can be crushed and mixed with water to make "lime paint", available for purchase at your local alternative building supply. All three of these materials can be mixed with natural pigments to make paint that creates a beautiful earthy finish. It's good for you and your family. It's good for the planet. And, hopefully, it's the future.

Unlike conventional latex paints (even the "environmentally-friendly," zero-VOC versions), natural paints are biodegradable and free of petro-chemical ingredients. Conventional paints contain toxins that must be carefully disposed of to prevent environmental contamination. Ever take old paint to the dump?

Natural paints are based on recipes that have been successfully used by people throughout the world for thousands of years. They are made with raw ingredients like clay, chalk, marble and mineral pigments that are not produced with petrochemical (oil-derived) or synthetic ingredients. Just water and ground up earth-stuff.

Most churches and cathedrals throughout Europe were painted with these same materials. Not to mention, the art of all ancient indigenous cultures. This is how paint began. I am loving using these products. I recently used clay paint in a bathroom and laundry room. And I'm currently bringing new life to a rock wall with lime paint. Both products perform well and smell great. They have moisture-wicking properties and are breathable, contributing to a positive room climate.

Is your room climate positive?