Color Washing Painted Furniture
When I bought this buffet, I knew it really needed some refreshing. It sat for a while because I just couldn’t decide what to do with it.
Then it came to me - color washing!
Color washing is a fun way to add layers and texture to a piece while still keeping it bright and colorful. Glazing can tone down a piece quite a bit, but layering color keeps it bold and interesting.
You can see how the buffet has great bones, but it's dull and boring. I decided on color washing it to a teal color. You can watch the entire process in my newly updated Color Washing tutorial.
Step 1. Paint the piece a base color. This should be the brightest color in your palate.
Step 2. Mix a darker color (here I chose navy) with water to make a runny paint. Apply with a brush and then wipe off with a damp paper towel to reveal a layered look.
Step 3. You may choose to apply the color wash layers of paint as many times as you like darkening each layer with a bit of black paint. Keep wiping off the paint, until you get the desired finish.
What a difference!
I heavily distressed this piece as I wanted it to have lots of interest.
I added these detailed cup pulls and it just made it all come together.
I’ve done this finish before with different combinations of color. I've used patina green for mirrors and soft blue for dressers. I even used it to makeover my cedar trunk in my living room. I went dark navy blue over the cedar. Be sure to check out this current project (and video) by clicking on my blog link below.
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When I was done it reminded me of turquoise, almost southwestern in feel.
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