Made from lime putty thinned with water, limewash can be tinted with artist's acrylics and used in traditional Italian interiors The paint goes on with a very thin consistency like milk and is built up layer by layer but dries opaque with a soft, chalky texture It can be used on bricks and new plaster It is good for old buildings as it enables the walls to breathe You can't usually buy it ready-made although some companies will make it up for you Alternatively, you can make your own following a paint recipe