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Easy Way to Microcement with Smartcret: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

June 1, 2026
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3 min read
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6 steps

Limewash walls are everywhere right now—soft, cloudy, and perfectly imperfect in that modern/designer way. The only annoying part? Buying real limewash paint can be expensive or hard to find, depending on where you live. So we did what we always do: we made our own. In this guide (based on our video “How to Make Your Own DIY Limewash!”), you’ll learn the simple DIY limewash recipe, what each ingredient does, and the best way to apply limewash so you get that signature textured look—without panicking halfway through the first coat.

Dan
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Quick Steps

For the “Just Tell Me How” Crowd

  1. Mix 1 part water to 4 parts hydrated lime until milky.
  2. Add alum salts, mix until dissolved.
  3. Add pigment (1:1 with alum), mix well.
  4. Apply in small X/crosshatch strokes — not long strokes.
  5. Don’t panic: It goes on dark, dries much lighter.
  6. Second coat if needed.

Why Choose Microcement?

Why Choose Microcement?

Microcement is a versatile finishing material that has become increasingly popular in modern interiors. Its benefits include:

  • Seamless finish: No grout lines or visible seams.
  • Durability: Once sealed, it’s scratch and water-resistant.
  • Quick installation: Can be applied over existing surfaces like tile, drywall, and cement.
  • Eco-friendly: Reduces waste by applying over existing materials instead of removing them.

With Smartcret, you get a complete DIY kit that includes primers, fillers, and base/top coats, making it easy to achieve professional results at home.

Step 1: Clean Your Surfaces

Clean Your Surfaces

Before starting, thoroughly clean your surfaces to remove any dust, grease, or residue. This ensures proper adhesion for primers and microcement.

Step 2: Fill Grout Lines

for Tiles

If you’re applying microcement over existing tile:

  1. Use the Smartcret filler to fill grout lines.
  2. Smooth it out so the surface is even and ready for microcement.
    This step ensures a completely smooth, seamless finish.

Step 3: Prime Your Surfaces

Prime Your Surfaces

Smartcret provides two primers for different surfaces:

  • Porous surfaces (like drywall): Apply the milky, tacky primer that helps the microcement stick.
  • Non-porous surfaces (like tile): Use the grippy primer designed to adhere to slick surfaces.

Let the primer dry and lightly sand it to prepare for the base coat.

Step 4: Apply the Smart Base

Apply the Smart Base

Apply two coats of Smartcret Smart Base, sanding gently between each coat.

  1. Focus on smooth, even application while maintaining a wet edge to avoid streaks.
  2. Allow the base to dry fully before moving on to the top coat.

The Smart Base has a slightly textured look, giving your walls a subtle, contemporary character.

Step 5: Apply the Smart Liso Top Coat

Apply the Smart Liso Top Coat

  1. Use Smart Liso for areas that need to be waterproof (like shower walls).
  2. Apply two or more coats, sanding between each for a smooth, glassy finish.
  3. The top coat provides additional durability and water resistance.

Tip: Keep a wet edge and work in a continuous motion for the most uniform result.

Step 6: Seal Your Microcement

Seal Your Microcement

Once the top coat is dry, apply a Smartcret sealer to protect your surfaces from stains and water. More coats increase water resistance and durability, especially in wet areas like showers and floors.

Step 7: Final Touches

Final Touches

  • Remove masking tape carefully using a utility blade to avoid peeling the microcement.
  • Add silicone around tubs or sinks for extra protection.
  • Admire your smooth, seamless, contemporary space!

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The tools and materials we use in our projects.

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