Perhaps you own a dresser that isn’t quite your style. Or it could be that you have a pair of end tables that are looking rather ragged. In either of these cases, you may be considering purchasing new furniture replacement pieces. But, that isn’t your only option. You may want to try turning these pieces from tattered relics into charming showpieces by using a distressing technique.
Learning how to distress furniture is rather simple—and, as a bonus, the process can actually be quite fun. Plus, it is relatively foolproof; if you aren’t happy with the results, you can remove paint or wood stain or do some more sanding of the piece until you feel that the furniture looks its best. Distressing furniture is also eco-friendly, as it is a way of recycling furniture and keeping it from ending up in a landfill. The process does not require expensive materials, either, so it is an inexpensive way to do some redecorating in your home.
Steps for Distressing Furniture
Follow these steps in order to distress a piece of wooden furniture of your choosing. If you are just learning how to distress furniture, you will likely want to choose a furniture piece that is not valuable to you; in other words, do not try your first project with your Grandmother’s beloved octagonal coffee table. And, before you begin, make sure that the piece is completely clean and dry.
It is also important to note that there is more than one way in which to distress a piece of furniture. Therefore, some steps are not obligatory.
- (Optional) Use a wax crayon to cover areas you will not want covered by paint. When you paint, the paint will not adhere to the crayon.
- (Optional) Apply layers of paint to the wood, using two or three colors. Use leftover house paint if you have any on hand or purchase small amounts of paint, as you will not need much. Use various items to apply the paint so as to enhance random breaks in the color when the item is sanded down.
- Sand the piece, using various grits of sandpaper for distinctive effects. If you have painted, you will want to sand in areas of the paint to remove it and expose layers of color. Regardless, you will want to sand edges and corners to simulate wear on the piece.
- Use an assortment of items to distress the piece. You can try an ice pick to simulate insect damage, a hammer to add depressions, and other tools to place additional distress. Have fun with it; however, do not overdo it or your piece may end up looking old instead of aged—this is not the look you are going for in how to distress furniture.
- (Optional) Use liquid paint stripper to remove additional paint, if paint was applied. Drip it on or let it puddle in small areas for various effects.
- Emphasize the marks you have made and finish the piece by using paint, wood stain, or shellac (depending upon the piece and what you have previously done).
Photo Credits: guy schmidt
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