Choosing the right color for your plaster project is different from choosing a paint color. Mineral pigments in lime plaster interact with light, texture, and surrounding materials in ways that flat paint simply doesn't. Here's a practical approach to making a confident selection.
Step 1: Start with the Fan Deck
The Earthaus Fan Deck is the recommended starting point. It provides a physical representation of all 54 colors that is far more accurate than any screen.
The Fan Deck's printed swatches are color-matched to Stone Finish, so Stone is the truest match. If you're using a different finish, keep in mind that colors will vary by finish:
Sand, Base, and Lime Stucco will closely match the Fan Deck.
Limewash will appear brighter and more pastel than the Fan Deck.
Step 2: Consider Your Space
Before narrowing down colors, think about:
Lighting:
North-facing rooms receive cooler, indirect light — warm tones can help balance this.
South-facing rooms receive warm, direct sunlight — colors will appear warmer and more saturated.
Rooms with limited natural light will make lighter colors appear more muted.
Surrounding materials:
What color are your floors, countertops, cabinetry, and fixtures? Earthaus colors are designed to feel natural and grounded, but they need to work with what's already in the room.
Wood tones, stone, and concrete pair naturally with most Earthaus colors.
Room size and function:
Lighter colors (Shell, Ibis, Cream, Alabaster) open up smaller spaces.
Mid-range earth tones (Latte, Prairie, Cove, Silt) create warmth without overwhelming.
Darker or more saturated colors (Storm, Midnight, Aubergine, Olive) work well as accent walls or in larger rooms with good light.
Step 3: Order Samples
Once you've narrowed to 2–4 colors using the Fan Deck, order Handmade Sample Boards in your chosen finish.
How to evaluate samples:
Place them in the actual room where the plaster will go.
View them at different times of day — morning, midday, evening, and under artificial light.
Hold them next to surrounding materials (countertops, tile, wood, fabric).
Live with them for a few days before deciding.
If none of the standard 54 colors are right, you can order a Custom Color matched to a Sherwin Williams paint color.
Step 4: Factor in the Finish
Your choice of finish affects color just as much as the pigment itself. If you haven't decided on a finish yet, consider:
Want a polished, water-resistant surface (the only finish for showers and wet areas)? → Tadelakt (colors will be slightly deeper)
Want a smooth, luxurious look with movement? → Marble (colors slightly deeper with more tonal variation)
Want a classic, natural plaster look? → Stone (most true-to-Fan-Deck color, burnishing will deepen the color)
Want a textured, rustic feel? → Sand (true color, matte)
Want a brushed, matte, paint-like finish? → Limewash (brighter, more pastel)
Want a brushed coating that shows the texture beneath it? → Lime Slurry (opaque, matte, with a fine sandy texture; follows the structure of the substrate)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing a color from your screen. Digital displays cannot accurately reproduce mineral pigment colors. It is recommended to use the Fan Deck and physical samples.
Assuming the color will look the same across finishes. The same pigment in Tadelakt vs. Limewash will look noticeably different. Order samples in the finish you plan to use.
Judging wet plaster. Freshly applied plaster appears darker. Wait for full cure before evaluating the final color.
Layering Limewash Colors
For Limewash specifically, you can create added depth and dimension by layering a darker base color beneath a lighter top coat. Popular combinations include:
Cove (1st coat) + Linen (2nd coat)
Prairie (1st coat) + Latte (2nd coat)
This technique brings visual depth and subtle movement to the surface. See the Limewash Palette for more details.
Need Help Choosing?
If you're unsure which color or finish is right for your project, email [email protected] or text 1-800-917-2414. Let us know your finish, the room, lighting conditions, and any reference images — we're happy to help guide your selection.
You can also find a professional installer through our Artisan Referral Program.