Need a Furniture Makeover? Try This Faux Wood Grain Painting Technique
Today, I'm excited to show you step-by-step how I achieved a faux wood grain look on a pair of old-fashioned nightstands, just by painting. With a few simple tools and materials, you'll be able to transform any surface into a rustic wood masterpiece. Let's get to this furniture flip!
Tools and Materials
- Rustoleum 2x Primer (or any primer of your choice)
- Patching material (if needed)
- Drill and drill bits
- Behr Baja chalk paint (or similar)
- Rustoleum Aged Glaze
- Sponge brush
- Large brush
- Kids' broom
- Varathane water-based satin polyurethane
DIY faux wood grain painting technique
1. Prep the Surface
Start by ensuring your surface is clean and free of any debris. Sand down the old finishing. A smooth surface will ensure the best results.
2. Apply Primer
Using the Rustoleum 2x Primer (or your preferred primer), apply a thin and even coat to the entire surface. This will create a solid base for the faux wood finish. Allow the primer to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
3. Apply Base Paint
Once the primer is dry, it's time to add your base coat. I used Behr Baja chalk paint for its rustic charm. Apply two coats of chalk paint, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly in between.
4. Add Aged Glaze
Take your Rustoleum Aged Glaze and a sponge brush. Begin applying the glaze in a random pattern, mimicking the look of wood grain. Don't worry about perfection – the imperfections add to the realism. After applying the glaze, use a large brush to smooth it out, creating a natural wood-like texture.
To enhance the texture even further, grab a kids' broom from the dollar store. Lightly dip the broom into the glaze and gently drag it across the surface in long, sweeping motions. This step will give your faux wood finish an authentic weathered appearance.
5. Seal the Finish
To protect your masterpiece and give it a subtle sheen, top coat the surface with Varathane water-based satin polyurethane. Apply a thin and even coat using a brush, following the manufacturer's guidelines. Allow the polyurethane to dry completely.
Faux wood grain painting technique
This faux wood grain painting technique is perfect for furniture, accent walls, or any DIY project you can dream up. Have you done faux wood grain? Share your projects in the comments below.
Follow @moderntouchbyjanette on Instagram for more DIY ideas.
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
Do I have to use chalk paint for it to work? I may want to do a darker brown as a base coat and wondered how it might look?