Two small white bottles standing on a pale wood surface behind a printed exhibition card headed “Milk Paint”.

Milk paint is a blend of powdered ingredients that is not as heavy as traditional paints. It does not need any mildewcides or biocides to keep it fresh on the shelf. Milk paint can be manipulated to create different end looks, such as an authentically aged or chippy look, making it a favorite among DIYers and furniture flippers. Milk paint is biodegradable.

Composition

Milk protein (casein), lime, pigment

Handling Notes

  • The all-natural formulation is free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and can be used in non-ventilated spaces
  • Can be mixed with water before application
  • Prep work and sometimes a bonding agent are needed on slick or nonporous surfaces
  • Often used for painting wood

Applications in Craft

Keywords

Provenance

RMPco. Finishes, Hohenwald, Tennessee. Acquired 2026.

In Use

Have you used this material?

Please contact Mellanee Goodman, Program Director, Curator, and Materials Specialist, to start a conversation about submitting your work for inclusion on this site.

mgoodman@centerforcraft.org