Distressing a paint finish successfully is an art. For me it isn't simply loading up a palm sander and attacking. Let me share some of my secrets.
A light edge distressing is extremely attractive look and
shows all the detail of your project especially right after a nice
crisp paint job. The more detailed the more it stands out in a crowd!
***********************************
First lets talk sand paper ...
I hand sand all my distressing,
NO ELECTRIC SANDERS HERE!!!
I fold my paper over twice as shown in the photos above.
To get into recessed areas I curve my paper as seen below.
Another trick is to highlight flaws.
When you come across something unusual in the finish
like a knot or dent make it more noticeable.
See below how I've sanded a little extra around the dent.
Distressing is meant to simulate age. Imagine the wear & tear
furniture goes through in 50 years. Kids sitting rubbing their feet
over the same rung of a chair as they grow up, or mom wiping
down the cabinet doors during each week of house cleaning.
The paint starts to wear in the same areas over time.
furniture goes through in 50 years. Kids sitting rubbing their feet
over the same rung of a chair as they grow up, or mom wiping
down the cabinet doors during each week of house cleaning.
The paint starts to wear in the same areas over time.
I hope this will help you with your distressing projects
and gives you some great ideas.
For another article on distressing click here:
