Sideboard color change

Susan Hanline
by Susan Hanline
I have a distressed, off white (cream) colored sideboard/buffet with a wooden top. What can I use to get the cream color to turn a gray/blue shade but not look like paint, more opaque. I don't want it to be "solid" Would you suggest gel stain? A wash? My dining chairs have a very light blue/gray undertone with what seems to be a faint green overlay.
  7 answers
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Feb 08, 2016
    I am thinking chalk paint for the look you are try to achieve.
    • See 1 previous
    • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Feb 08, 2016
      @Susan Hanline To add you may want to also look into other painting techniques such as white washing so to speak but with a touch of color. Should you still feel the chalk paint is to solid.
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Feb 08, 2016
    I have never done the process. I have seen painted furniture done in chalk paint on Home talk posts and it does not appear to be solid at all. It is a very pretty decor should you choose to attempt the painting. Just as an example research Anne Sloans chalk paint or the Purple Painted lady. They both give very helpful ideas.
  • MN Mom MN Mom on Feb 08, 2016
    Susan I agree that all the chalk paint I have seen has also been more "solid" in coverage. I'm wondering how a colored wax would work to give you a color yet not coverage?
  • Diana Northrop Diana Northrop on Feb 08, 2016
    I disagree with all of the painting of beautiful furniture. Chalk is done and over with.,strip it and enjoy all of the war wounds that it has endured through the years. Love it for what it is.
    • MN Mom MN Mom on Feb 09, 2016
      I agree. To me chalk paint looks like you didn't take the time to stain it so you painted it quickly instead!
  • Marie Caruana Marie Caruana on Feb 09, 2016
    Chalk paint is definitely NOT what you're looking for. After stripping the piece, "whitewash" with the blue gray color you want--mix with water to make a wash, brush on and wipe off. Keep at it until you get the depth of color you're looking for.
  • Country Design Home Country Design Home on Feb 09, 2016
    Hi Susan! You can achieve the desired effect with a glazing product. Your local crafts store will have several to choose from. You can buy one in the color you want, or buy a clear one and add your own color to it. (just make sure they are both water based). You simply paint it on, then wipe away the excess with a damp rag. I have even used chalk paint with that same technique, with great results. Here is the how-to (this one is red over wood, but I have done this over white with excellent results as well: http://countrydesignhome.com/2015/02/02/americana-vintage-sideboard-makeover/
  • Barbara Barbara on Feb 09, 2016
    I agree with Marie Caruana with a wash. First mix your blue and green to the color desired then add water to thin out and make a wash. Wipe down with a soft clean damp cloth and allow to air dry then check for color depth. If too light go at it again.