Imagine needing to redecorate your house. What if you could find the paint you need right in your backyard? That is the idea behind Organizaçao Terra e Tinta.
Organizaçao Terra e Tinta is not just any arts center. It promotes the use of natural earth-based paints. These paints offer an economical and sustainable alternative to conventional paints.
These paints are clean functional and easy to make. They adhere well to surfaces like wood and fabrics. With some modifications they can even work on plaster walls and glass.
The primary advantage of using earth-based paints is sustainability. Conventional paints contain many chemical elements harmful to nature. Discarding these paints can contaminate the soil and water. They pose a threat to the environment and public health. Earth-based paints eliminate this problem.
Making earth-based paints is a simple process. First you need about six to eight kilograms of clay soil. This soil can be collected from various places. Just avoid disturbing anthills or termite mounds. Hills are often a good source as the soil tends to be purer there.
You will also need a container about 3.5 liters. A sieve ten liters of water and one kilogram of binding agent are needed. The binding agent can be white glue gum arabic or acrylic varnish. Pigments like saffron or sand can be added for color.
Start by sieving the soil to remove stones and roots. The sieving time depends on the desired texture. For a textured look sieve quickly. For a smooth finish sieve longer.
Mix the sieved soil with the binding agent. Use about half the volume of soil in binding agent. Too much binding agent can cause cracks later.
Add water gradually while mixing. You may not need all ten liters. More water gives a more watercolor-like appearance.
Test the paint on a small area or fabric before painting an entire wall. Earth-based paints can be a great eco-friendly option.
The “Tons da Terra” project highlights the benefits. Conventional paints are increasingly expensive. This prevents people from painting homes churches and schools. Painting helps maintain hygiene and reduces microorganism growth which prevents respiratory diseases.
“Tons da Terra” paints are easy to produce using earth water and glue. They dry quickly and are odorless. These paints cost about 75% less than conventional paints. Eighteen liters can cover about 78 cubic meters. This requires eight kilos of earth eight liters of water and four liters of glue applied in two coats.
The paint can also be used in crafts to boost family income. This promotes science and art. Students have shown more interest in chemistry through this hands-on method.
The process involves collecting soil sustainably. Various soil tones are collected. The soil is crushed sieved and mixed with water and glue. The ratio is typically 1:1:1/2.
These paints have been used to paint houses since 2012. The durability has been proven against weather and sun exposure. Workshops have been conducted in communities schools and universities. Approximately 2000 people have learned to produce earth paint.
So as you stand here at Organizaçao Terra e Tinta consider the possibilities. You can create beautiful and sustainable art with materials from the earth.