A simple (and fun) technique that looks really complicated. That’s the perfect kind of painting technique, right?
I did a dresser in this technique earlier this year and it blew up online, my little two minute color washing video didn’t seem to do the technique justice so here is my updated and more complete version.
I use a mirror in this example, mirrors by the way are a great thing to try a new finish on. They are smaller, so quicker and easier – a great way to practice before tackling a giant buffet – and you can usually find a wood framed one pretty inexpensively at a thrift store!
Somehow I forgot to take a “before” photo of the mirror, but this one is very similar to how it looked when I found it.
In just a few quick steps, I turned it into this:
Yeah, that’s a fun finish right??
Here’s how its done:
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Materials needed:
● 220 Grit Sandpaper (optional)
● Purdy XL Cub Paint Brush
● Gloves
● Bright Paint Color (I used General Finishes Corinth Blue Milk Paint match
to Behr Aruba Blue P4806)
● Second Paint Color (I used General Finishes Coastal Blue Milk Paint) mixed with
water
● Third Paint Color (I used General Finishes Coastal Blue Milk Paint mixed with 1T
Lamp Black Milk Paint) mixed with water
● Damp Paper Towel/Rag
● Razor (if refinishing a mirror)
The goal with this technique is to make it look like years and years of paint. Some good layering from age and patina make the details of the piece really stand out. So a more intricate piece will give you a little more interesting finish.
I’m using blues in this tutorial, but other colors would certainly work just as well. Just always start with a bright color and tone down as you go.
The blue I start with is General Finishes Corinth Blue Milk Paint (sadly discontinued, but a match in case you want to duplicate this finish is Aruba Blue by Behr P480-6).
First coat of paint.
The second coat is General Finishes Coastal Blue Milk Paint (mixed with water).
Second coat
The third coat is General Finishes Coastal Blue Milk Paint mixed with about a tablespoon of Lamp Black Milk Paint (mixed with water).
Third Coat
Told you, a really interesting finish, and WAAAAYYYY easier than you thought right? Do this and you’ll look like a rockstar 🙂 You’re welcome.
Happy Painting!
Jenni
