By learning how to apply a crackle finish to furniture, walls, windows, and other objects, you can customize your home with unique accent pieces. An aged crackle finish has a very rustic, distressed look that blends well with many types of home decor. People pay a lot of money to buy crackled furniture in stores, but you can learn how to apply a crackle finish yourself for a fraction of the cost. This is a faux painting technique that is not hard to do, but will require a bit of practice.
The first time you try the faux crackle finish medium and technique, practice on a foam board or scrap piece of wood. Then, once you have the process down, you can apply it to dressers, chairs, wood chests, picture frames, window boxes, window sills, bed frames, and many other things around the house.
Supplies needed to apply crackle finish:
– Paint brush
– Paint tray
– Base coat (optional)
– Sandpaper
– Top coat
– Crackle medium
– Face mask
– Protective gloves
When an aged crackle finish is applied between a base coat and top coat of paint, it will cause the top coat to split and crack so that the base coat shows through. Therefore, you will want to use two paint colors that blend well together. If you are working with an object that is already painted with a color you like, you will not need to apply a base coat. However, if you are working with a piece of unfinished wood, or on a surface that’s painted in a color that won’t work with your top coat, you will need to paint it.
Safety note – This faux painting project will require you to work in a well ventilated area. Wear a face mask and protective gloves, as well.
Step 1 – Remove glass inserts, hardware, handles, or any other parts and pieces from the object you will be crackling.
Step 2 – If you are working with unfinished wood, or an object with peeling or chipping wood, sand the surface down thoroughly . Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove dust and other debris.
Step 3 – Apply a base coat of paint, if necessary (optional, see above). Let dry completely.
Step 4 – Using a paintbrush, apply the crackle medium. The thicker you apply the aged crackle finish, the larger the crackle will be. If you don’t want a heavy crackle finish, apply a thinner amount.
Step 5 – Allow the crackle to dry. This process typically takes around 30 minutes, but because each product is different, consult the packaging for appropriate dry time.
Step 6 – Once the aged crackle finish has dried, you are now ready to apply the top coat. This is the step that may require some practice to get right. Apply the paint in one consistent motion, working only in one direction. You’ll be able to see the crackling take shape almost immediately. Take care not apply the paint too thick, as it will make the crackle finish difficult to see. Continue until the faux crackle finish is applied to the entire surface. Allow to dry completely.
At this point, your job is complete! If you want to go one step further, you can do so by applying a protective coat of water-based polyurethane. Some people like the glossy finish it provides, while others prefer the matte finish the aged crackle finish has without it. The choice is up to you.
More from Jennifer Wagner:
DIY Faux Painting: Marbling
DIY Faux Painting: Wood Graining
DIY Faux Painting: Color Washing
SOURCE:
Personal knowledge and experience