How to Make New Wood Look Weathered

You can give new wood that old, rustic look with a simple technique. So get distressed!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wire Brushes
• Wood Preservatives
• Wire Brush Accessories

1. Brush the wood with a stiff wire brush. Brush with the grain of the wood to remove a small amount of the cellulose between the grain. This will make the grain stand out.

2. Apply a gray or dark stain to the brushed wood.

3. Wipe away the stain with a cloth while it is still wet. This step will make the grain of the wood appear to stand out, giving it a weathered appearance.

4. Treat the wood with a preservative after you have achieved the desired texture.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use a wire brush accessory tool on your electric drill to speed up the sanding process.

on 11/22/2005 To make wood look weathered,
I take a propane torch and slightly burn the wood, then use a wire brush on it.
This is something an adult should do - not a step for a child.