How to Easily Create a Rustic Look By Staining Wood With Paint

Wilsonfarmandhome
by Wilsonfarmandhome

Hey friends! Today, I'm excited to show you my favorite method for staining wood with paint to achieve a rustic vibe. This technique is super easy and perfect for adding character to your wooden projects. Let's dive in!

Tools and Materials

  • Acrylic paint
  • Paper plate
  • Drop cloth
  • Baby wipes
paint staining wood, Craft paint for home decor
Craft paint for home decor

Lay down some old newspapers or a drop cloth to protect your work surface. This will make cleanup a breeze.

paint staining wood, Brown paint and light colored wood
Brown paint and light-colored wood

1. Choose paint

Squeeze a small amount of your chosen paint color onto the paper plate. This will be your base color. It's a good idea to start with a little paint and add more as needed.

paint staining wood, Baby wipes
Baby wipes

2. Dip a baby wipe into the paint

Grab a couple of baby wipes – these will be your secret weapon for creating the rustic stained look. Dab a baby wipe into the paint on the paper plate. Make sure it's evenly coated but not dripping.

paint staining wood, Staining wood with paint and baby wipes
Staining wood with paint and baby wipes

3. Apply the Paint

Now comes the fun part! Take the paint-dabbed baby wipe and gently spread the paint all over the wood. If you're working on smooth wood, you'll find that this technique works like a charm.


While the paint is still wet, you have the flexibility to control the color intensity. To lighten the color, use a clean part of the baby wipe to gently wipe away some paint. For a darker look, simply apply another layer of paint with the baby wipe.

paint staining wood, How to stain wood with paint
How to stain wood with paint

How to stain wood with paint

Take a step back and admire the rustic beauty you've created! The paint will settle into the wood's texture, giving it a charming aged appearance.


I'm so glad you joined me for this staining wood with paint DIY adventure! Feel free to share your projects in the comments below – I'd love to see your unique spin on this staining method.


Thank you for hanging out with me today. Until next time, happy crafting!


Follow @wilsonfarmandhome on Instagram for more DIY ideas.

Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
3 of 4 questions
  • Debra Debra on Aug 22, 2023
    Love this idea! My question is can you seal this and if so what product would you use? I would want to “ stain” my kitchen table using this technique. Thank you
  • Meredith Westbrook Meredith Westbrook on Aug 22, 2023
    I love this idea! Yours looks fantastic. I wonder could this technique be used on already painted furniture to update the color?
  • Lyn12467409 Lyn12467409 on Aug 22, 2023
    Can it be regular wipes?
Comments
Join the conversation
3 of 12 comments
  • Syntha Syntha on Aug 22, 2023
    Millie that is true, but even a few extra pennies over time add up, at least in my mind. That is why I use old tee shirts. Besides I wash the stained tee shirts for reuse in other craft projects. So, each to her own, right? As far as baby wipes having oil or lotion in them and impacting the stain, I don't have any idea, Michelle. I have used baby wipes in a pinch to clean up something, but never thought about the lotion or oil aspect of it. I did not mean to create controversy with my comment, the poster did a fabulous job on her shelving, and I was not disparaging her or her craft. I was stating what I have done with my shelving with success, nothing more and nothing less. We all have our own ideas, and there is nothing wrong with sharing our thoughts on what we do with our projects.
  • JH JH on Aug 22, 2023
    Adding our knowledge is never controversial...unless someone makes it so. We come on here for inspiration and to inspire. So keep adding your knowledge. She is basically diluting the paint just a tad. A moist cloth of any kind works as well. I agree Jamie, wear gloves!!! 😉I also meant to add, the ingredients in the baby wipes might differ with each brand. I have not used them for any reason in many, many years. I do know that oils and lotions are what I use to remove paint and stain from my hands and clothes...if I get it on me. Regardless, the shelves are very lovely!!
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