Antiquing wood is a painting technique that will turn your furniture into antiques. It can also create interesting color effects. Antiques are expensive but if you want it yet you can’t afford it, you don’t have to save up for it because you can turn your wood furniture to an antique. Saves you a thousand dollars!

Step-by-step guide in antiquing wood

The first step in antiquing wood is to clean and dry the surface. Make sure that there is no dirt or oil on it. Next, you have to distress the wood. If you want the same look that beat up antique pieces have, choose a hammer, keys or rocks. Chisel to shave off some spots to represent wear and tear. Then, sand the piece in order to dull the surface.

Antiquing wood, the next step is to apply a base coat of flat or gloss enamel. Let it dry completely. The next step is to lightly brush on a dark brown glaze. While the glaze is still wet, use the steel wool to wipe it off and spread into the recessed areas or you can apply a transparent antiquing glaze. Let it dry only when it starts to dull. Wipe it off with a soft cloth along the grain of the wood. Always remember to work from the center out to the edges.

Let it dry completely and then sand certain areas to expose the wood. Seal the piece with semi-gloss or high-gloss varnish. Always make sure that the varnish is compatible with the antique finish as this will protect the surface.

When antiquing wood, distressing the wood, choose cheap furniture and not real antiques. You can also find antiquing kits in paint and hardware stores. Also, you have to keep in mind that the greater the contrast in color between the base and the glaze, the more obvious it will be that the furniture is antiqued. Also, you must keep in mind that antiquing glazes set quickly, so don’t do an area too large. Do not sand against the grain of the wood as it will scratch your piece.

Antiquing wood is really easy. Following this step-by-step guide will help you when it comes to antiquing wood.