Ways to Rustic Paint

Washing

• The color-washing rustic paint technique is one way to hide imperfections. For a wall that's flawed or has imperfections, a color wash can achieve a lived-in, mellow, rustic look while hiding a less-than-perfect surface. The Tuscan style is a soothing Old World rustic look that works well with warm colors sch as reds, oranges and yellows. A white paint is applied as the base coat and covered with a bright glaze.

Antiquing

• When you think of rustic, you think of time-worn furniture that has seen countless hands and has been around for years. There is a way to take a wall, piece of furniture or accessory and give it the patina of age. A rustic painting method called antiquing adds age to almost any piece of furniture. By using a chain, screwdriver and a hammer, you add character. Then you apply a stain or two and wipe off right away. The method is a bit different for walls. Roll on a base coat first. For the color coat, dip a brush in paint, wipe it almost completely off and then lightly brush horizontally and the vertically. You don't want to completely cover the wall with the second coat of paint.

Leather

• Leather faux painting can lend an instant richness to any rustic look without the cost of real leather. Leather painting is a special effects painting technique achieved with a base coat of paint, plastic bags and glaze. A leather painted wall can be a dramatic backdrop for a rustic decorating.

Stenciling

• Stenciling moose, bear, stars, pine trees, wildflowers or even numbers. The choices are limitless and you don't have to repaint entire walls. Choose a stencil that complements your rustic decor. Hobby stores have stencils, brushes and stencil paints. This is an easy way to rustic paint without much cost, time or effort.