How to Use Crackle-Painting Techniques

You can give a new or old piece of furniture an antique "look" by using crackling compound liquid to make the final coat of paint "crackle" and expose the layers of paint underneath. The crackling compound makes the paint peel and mimic the look of decades of aging. You then seal the crackles with clear polyurethane or varnish. The result looks so natural that no one will know it was done artificially.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sandpaper--finish grade
• Two colors of paint: the color you want your piece to be and a contrasting color
• 2-inch paint brush
• Crackling compound liquid finish
• Clear polyurethane or varnish
• Fine grade steel wool

1. Sand the surface of the piece of furniture to be "crackled." Use a finishing sandpaper and smooth the surface to help the finish adhere.

2. Paint the first coat a color that contrasts with the color you want the piece to be. Allow the paint to dry for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer.

3. Apply the crackling compound liquid finish. Use a 2-inch paintbrush. Apply a relatively thick coat and try to avoid brushing over areas to which you've already applied the crackling medium. Allow to dry until tacky, about 20 minutes.

4. Apply the topcoat of paint in the color you want the piece to be. Again, try not to brush over areas you've already painted. The final coat of paint will begin to crackle and expose the contrasting first coat of paint.

5. Allow the final coat of paint to dry for 24 hours.

6. Brush on a coat of clear polyurethane or varnish to protect the crackle finish.

7. Allow the polyurethane or varnish to dry for 24 hours.

8. Use fine-grade steel wool to lightly sand and smooth the surface.