A Quick How-To for Antiquing Furniture


This is a fun and easy way to change and update older furniture pieces you want to give a new look to.  I’ve done this with a number of old dressers and cabinets, and each one came out great.

  • Begin by sanding down the visible areas of your furniture piece.
  • Next, apply crackle paint with a small paint brush.  This can be used on edges, joints, and/or selective, flat surface areas.   Let the paint dry according to package instructions.
  • Once dried, use a latex paint and apply to all areas.  I like using off-whites, but, any color of your choosing could be used!
  • Next, apply a dark stain in vertical swipes and use a rag to wipe away some of the stain immediately after.  Repeat continuously.  Experiment with different thickness applications on different parts of your furniture.
  • Once the stain has dried, apply a wax coating to finish your furniture piece.  These can be purchased at most home improvement and furniture stores.
Last, update fixtures to finish off the new look.