How to Paint & Antique Ivory With Wood Finish

Stained ivory works well with dark furniture and wood paneling.

Painting wood finish onto ivory will give it an aged look, which will make it appear more classy and refined. In a study or other room, a stained ivory item complements wood paneling and dark-colored chairs. To paint ivory with a wood finish is to antique it, since this process darkens the ivory to make it appear older. Using hardware-store wood finish will suffice, and the whole process will take around half a day to complete, depending on how many coats of wood paint you require.

Things You'll Need

• Wood stain
• Brush
• Cloth
• Water
• Drop cloths (optional)

Instructions

1. Move the ivory item outdoors, so as to avoid damaging any other items. If it is too large to move, then place drop cloths underneath, and remove from the vicinity any items that could be damaged.

2. Wipe the ivory with a damp cloth to remove any dust or stains. Use small, circular motions to clean the ivory. Once you have cleaned it, dry it with a different cloth.

3. Paint on the wood stain with a paintbrush. Use small amounts to begin with, painting in lines down the ivory. The wood stain will attach to areas of imperfection, and will create an uneven, stained look. After completing one coat, allow to dry fully.

4. Repeat the painting process if you want to age the ivory further. Truly aged ivory is the color of iced tea, and so staining it too dark will not make it look authentic. One or two coats will usually suffice. Allow the ivory to dry fully, and leave it 24 hours before allowing children or animals near the ivory.

Tips & Warnings

• Distressing or antiquing your ivory in this way will reduce its value.

References

• DIY Data: Wood finishes
• Repair Home: How to distress wood