What Is Rub ‘n Buff? | How To Use & Color Options

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What Is Rub ‘n Buff?

The original wax metallic finish! Formulated from carnauba waxes, fine metallic powders, and select pigments, for a finish no paint can duplicate. It comes in a little tube and is similar to a shiny, textured paste.

What Surfaces Can Rub ‘n Buff Be Used On?

The paste can be used on painted surfaces, metal, wood, ceramics, plastic, glass, metal and more. It’s easy to apply and can completely transform any item in a matter of minutes! I love to use it on antiques, frames, crafts and home decor.

Color Options

There are 12 different metallic colors to choose from! My personal favorite is Antique Gold and Autumn Gold.

1. Gold Leaf
2. Antique Gold
3. Grecian Gold
4. European Gold
5. Autumn Gold
6. Antique White
7. Ebony
8. Pewter
9. Silver Leaf
10. Spanish Copper
11. Ruby
12. Patina

How To Apply and Use

1. Choose your color
2. Prepare your item. Ensure that it is clean and the surface is dry. Rub ‘n Buff can be applied to painted surfaces, metal, wood, ceramics and more
3. Using your finger, a soft cloth or Q-tip, gently apply the paste in a rubbing fashion to your item
4. Buff with a soft cloth for more shine. Light circular motions work best.
5. I personally have found that depending on the metallic color I choose to use, I have had to apply multiple layers of the wax paste to achieve my desired color.

Drying Time

Once applied, it dries fairly quickly to the touch. If the finish is not as dark/thick as you’d like, apply another coat.

I generally allow about 30-45 minutes of drying time before I buff with a soft cloth.

My Previous Projects

I have used Rub ‘n Buff on many surfaces and for many projects in the past! My thrift store lamp is by far my favorite makeover with Antique Gold. I have applied it to photo frames, ceramic planters, metal baskets, door knobs, mirror frames…and even dresser knobs!

In my opinion, it is best used on items that aren’t used often, items that are better suited for decor items. High use items can show signs of wear, so in order to preserve the newly finished look, I prefer to use it on decor items.

Where To Buy?

Limited color selections of can be bought at Hobby Lobby. I prefer to purchase through Amazon as I can buy all 12 colors in one shot, for a more affordable price.

What Does It Look Like Once Applied?

It’s a bit tricky to figure out what color to use on your project based off of the color of the tube. To easily identify which color I would like to use, I applied all 12 colors to sterling silver spoons.

I photographed each color in various angles to give you the best perspective of what they look like!

Before… each spoon was a basic sterling silver kitchen spoon.

After! – with just 1 coat and no buffing

As you can see, the colors are GORGEOUS! Every color has such a unique look to it! Perfect for the DIYer who wants to update items on the cheap!

The options are endless. Let your creativity flow with this super affordable and exceptionally easy product to use!

What item in your home could use a transformation makeover? Tell me in the comments!

· In: Crafts/Projects, Painting & Staining