Making Furniture Look Primitive

Primitive-style furniture consists of new pieces that have been artificially antiqued. The antiquing process is very simple and can be done by any DIY enthusiast. The key to making your furniture look primitive is proper preparation of the wood before you apply multiple layers of paints and wax.

Sander
Gray paint and any other desired color
Beeswax
Rag
Gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Sand the surface of the furniture with 120-grit sandpaper. You don’t have to sand the surface completely clean, but you do want to create sufficient texture for the paint to adhere to.
- 2
  Paint the surface with a gray base coat. You’ll want to pick a neutral gray without any other color undertones present. The paint should have an eggshell finish. Let the paint dry before continuing.
- 3
  Melt beeswax on the stove and apply with a rag and gloves to the furniture. The wax will allow your top paint color to wipe away, so apply the wax to areas that should be distressed. These areas can include edges, tops and random places on the front surfaces.
- 4
  Apply your top coat paint to the furniture. Colors such as chestnut are excellent for a classical design. This paint should be either eggshell or flat paint. Let the paint dry and then wipe away the paint with a rag.
- 5
  Melt more beeswax. Apply and polish the entire furniture piece to give it a hand-rubbed final look.

How to Lower a Desk Chair

Wood Antique Plant Stand Decorating Ideas

Other Furniture