How to Blackwash Wood

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Things You'll Need

  • Practice piece of wood

  • Old cloth or newspaper

  • Black latex paint

  • Paintbrushes

  • #280 and #100 sandpapers

  • Damp cloth

  • Spray-on lacquer clear top coat

  • Paint spray gun (optional)

You can give a dated look to wood by adding a color wash.

Adding a wash to cabinets, tables and other wooden furniture can create a faux finish and add interest to the piece. A wash is a change in the tone of the underlying color by thinning the color. Depending on your decor, you can add a whitewash (the most popular), grey, red or blackwash to unfinished or finished wood. You can make a wash for wooden furniture with stain, glaze and even latex paint.

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Step 1

Lay sheets of newspaper or a cloth on the area where you will paint the wood.

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Step 2

Place the practice piece of wood on top of the cloth. It is not a good idea to start painting on your furniture until you see an example of the finished product.

Step 3

Dip a paintbrush in black latex paint. Add an even coat of paint on the practice wood. Allow the paint to dry for two hours or until it is thoroughly dry.

Step 4

Sand the latex paint with #280 sandpaper and remove the dust. Apply the clear top coat and allow it to dry.

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Step 5

Check the results of the wood. If you like the blackwash, apply the steps to the furniture.

Step 6

Lightly sand away black paint with the #100 sandpaper until the wash effect suits your taste. Wipe away the dust with a damp cloth.

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Step 7

Apply a coat of black latex paint with a paintbrush or spray gun depending on the size of the wooden piece. Allow it to dry.

Step 8

Repeat Step 3 to finish the wood. Spray on the clear top coat for a light, even look and to prevent the latex paint from dissolving with the clear coat. Allow the coat to dry and spray on a second coat.

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