Working on a new piece that I cannot wait to share with you ladies.  I’m using my favorite paint, Annie Sloan Chalkpaint, and my favorite technique.  I am applying two coats of paint (by choice) because I like to have a contrast of color with my pieces.  I tend to use Old White as my first coat with most colors.  My favorite lately is Old White and then a coat of Paris Grey.

• I apply my first coat, not very thick, do not worry about complete coverage, particularly if the wood is dark.  The second coat I apply heavier and give complete coverage.

• Allow paint to dry, which is very quick, then apply a coat of clear wax (remember, less is more).  Be sure to remove the excess wax, allow to dry, and buff lightly.

• Take a sanding block (approximately 100/200 grit) and begin sanding areas that would be worn.  I usually sand legs, sides, and around groves.  This is the time to sand other areas lightly to bring some of the background color through.

• Now you are ready for my favorite part.  Instead of using dark wax straight on to give the piece an aged appearance I like to make a glaze.  A glaze is so easy to work with and I just love the control.   To make your glaze simply grab an old container, preferably with a lid.  ( I love to purchase the metal,  one quart,  empty paint cans at Lowes for $2.99) Add some low odor mineral spirits and Annie Sloan dark wax.  Close the container and shake vigorously.  Open the container and now you have a terrific glaze to apply.  I like to take a brush and apply the glaze to a large area, working sections of the piece.  I allow the glaze to sit until it begins to dry (do not allow to dry).  Take an old cloth (I love using my boys old white cotton t-shirts that they’ve grown out of) and begin to remove the glaze, leave some of the glaze in the groves and crevices which will give the piece a bit of the aged appearance.   Once you have applied the glaze to the entire piece wait until it dries completely and buff.  The next day give it a final buff and you’ve created your own French piece.

• Painting with our paint should always be a pleasure. If it’s feeling like hard work then maybe the paint is too thick, add some water to make the paint flow easily.

• Are you working with a small brush? Switch to a bigger one to get the job done quickly.

• If it is hard work rubbing back with the sandpaper then use a coarser sand paper but next time paint a thinner top coat.

Until next time,  Hugs & Brushes