Do you have an older piece of furniture that you like, but just don’t like the finish?
A friend was telling us about “Uncle Matt’s Piece” . . . that’s what she called it because that’s what everybody called it! This table, pictured above had been around for a long time (and so has the photo!!) – and there wasn’t a thing wrong with it! Except that it looked like it had been around a long time . . . perhaps a little sprucing up – a good paint job and a little Briwax to give it some depth and character?!?
After painting, “Uncle Matt’s piece” looks almost nothing like it did before. How was our friend able to make this amazing transition? First a coat of Kilz (just so that the paint would adhere evenly), then 2 coats of Sherwin-Williams paint in the color “Spirit in the Sky”. After the paint cured (nice and dry), the table was lightly sanded all over and sanded more in places to scuff through the paint. Then the entire piece was given a light application of Dark Brown and Clear Briwax. The Clear Briwax is used to give the entire protection and a lovely sheen. The Dark Brown Briwax is used to give character to the worn places, and to accent crevasses and carvings.
We think that even Uncle Matt would be pleased with the results!!
Hints:
- When possible have a test board for trying out your paint and Briwax application techniques. When a test board is not available, use the back (where it will be hidden) of the piece of furniture.
- Latex or oil based paints can be used under Briwax. Just remember than oil based paints will require a longer curing (drying) time.
- Start with sanding with a light touch. If you like the look and want to achieve a more distressed look, then sand more aggressively. Sand through the paint where the piece would naturally have gotten wear. You don’t need to sand through the paint all over.
- Still think that your piece needs some sprucing? Try changing the hardware. New drawer pulls will make a big difference.
