Saltwashed

Saltwashed is a decorative finishing technique used on walls, furniture, and pottery to produce a weathered, crystallized appearance. The term describes a surface treatment in which a salt-containing wash is applied and allowed to dry, causing salt crystals to form on or just under the surface. The resulting texture is often pale, matte, and slightly uneven, with subtle white or translucent splotches that mimic natural salt efflorescence or beach-weathered plaster.

Materials and methods: A salt wash may be a dilute solution of sodium chloride, calcium chloride, or other mineral salts, sometimes mixed with lime, plaster, or acrylic binders. The surface is prepared (etched, dampened or previously primed), the wash is brushed or sprayed on, and as it dries the salts crystallize. Different salt concentrations, drying conditions, and substrate porosity produce varied patterns. In architectural settings, saltwashed finishes are sometimes used on limewash or plaster to evoke coastal or rustic aesthetics. In furniture and ceramics, the effect can be achieved by applying a salt-rich glaze or wash to a porous surface and allowing controlled crystallization.

Durability and care: Saltwashed finishes rely on the ongoing presence of microcrystals and can be sensitive to moisture; excessive humidity or water may dissolve or dislodge the crystals. Sealing with a breathable finish or applying a top coat can stabilize the appearance, depending on the substrate and desired look.

See also: efflorescence, limewash, patina, salt glaze.