Hello, freckled friends.
Below is my tutorial for the Faux Zinc
painting technique that I used to create my
Restoration Hardware inspired nightstand.
For those of you that haven't seen this post,
check it out first because there a many more photos
to illustrate the faux zinc finish.
This technique is so easy
and beginner friendly.
There are a several steps listed
but it is simply a matter of mixing
3 shades of metallic paint and
3 shades of metallic paint w/glazing medium,
and layering it on.
You can do this.
Supplies List:
Cotton rag (an old t-shirt works great)
Below is my tutorial for the Faux Zinc
painting technique that I used to create my
Restoration Hardware inspired nightstand.
For those of you that haven't seen this post,
check it out first because there a many more photos
to illustrate the faux zinc finish.
This technique is so easy
and beginner friendly.
There are a several steps listed
but it is simply a matter of mixing
3 shades of metallic paint and
3 shades of metallic paint w/glazing medium,
and layering it on.
You can do this.
Supplies List:
Cotton rag (an old t-shirt works great)
Chip brush
fine tip paint brush
paper plates
water
nails
hammer
2 oz. DecoArt American acrylic paint in Titanium White
8 oz. DecoArt Americana Glazing Medium
Before I continue,
let me say that the paint you use is essential to a realistic faux zinc finish .
I am grateful that Mallie at DecoArt found my blog, offered to help with this project,
and sent me some metallic and acrylic paints to try.
And. oh. my. gosh.
I've used several metallic paints before and the Elegant Finish Metallic paint is the best
(and I'm not just saying that because of Mallie's kindness).
Most metallic paints are thin and sheer, requiring several coats.
This paint covered in one coat, has a beautiful, realistic sheen,
and the consistency was a dream to work with.
(I've been a painter for 20 years and know a quality paint when I use it.)
The Elegant Finish Metallic paint is specifically for home decorating -
furniture, walls, wallpaper, etc.
DecoArt also makes an Elegant Finish Metallic glaze.
You can find all of the paints that I used at any Micheal's or Hobby Lobby.
I put the DecoArt button up top, in my sidebar if you need to order online.
Step 1
nails
hammer
1 jar DecoArt Elegant Finish Metallic Paint in Shimmering Silver
2 oz. DecoArt Americana acrylic paint in Ebony Black2 oz. DecoArt American acrylic paint in Titanium White
8 oz. DecoArt Americana Glazing Medium
Before I continue,
let me say that the paint you use is essential to a realistic faux zinc finish .
I am grateful that Mallie at DecoArt found my blog, offered to help with this project,
and sent me some metallic and acrylic paints to try.
And. oh. my. gosh.
I've used several metallic paints before and the Elegant Finish Metallic paint is the best
(and I'm not just saying that because of Mallie's kindness).
Most metallic paints are thin and sheer, requiring several coats.
This paint covered in one coat, has a beautiful, realistic sheen,
and the consistency was a dream to work with.
(I've been a painter for 20 years and know a quality paint when I use it.)
The Elegant Finish Metallic paint is specifically for home decorating -
furniture, walls, wallpaper, etc.
DecoArt also makes an Elegant Finish Metallic glaze.
You can find all of the paints that I used at any Micheal's or Hobby Lobby.
I put the DecoArt button up top, in my sidebar if you need to order online.
Step 1
Lightly sand your piece with a fine grit to prepare for primer.
Step 2
Step 2
Prime
I used Sherwin Williams "Controls Rust" primer for use on metal or wood.
The light gray cap matched their zinc spray paint cap exactly.
Yes. Sherwin Williams carries a 97% Zinc Powder Spray Paint.
There's only one problem though.
You can't use the Zinc paint on wood according to the can...
in CAPITAL LETTERS and bold font.
in CAPITAL LETTERS and bold font.
(I can take a hint.)
Step 3
Hammer in tiny nails.
Step 4
Mix three shades of metallic paint.
Light. Medium. Dark.
Use a combination of:
Shimmering Silver
Titanium White
Ebony Black
Step 5
Using a rag to apply and blend
the different shades.
You don't need to be too particular about it either.
Imperfect works here.
Just use long strokes and work in sections
because the paint dries pretty quickly.
Here is my nightstand after the base coat of metallic paint.
You can stop here and have a beautiful piece of furniture.
If you want a more worn patina, continue...
Step 6
Mix a light glaze for the lighter patina.
Use a 1:1 ratio of water and glazing medium.
Add Titanium White and Shimmering Silver.
(Again, the Shimmering Silver is also available in a glaze so you could
use the pre-made glaze and simply add white.)
Step 7
Rub on the white patina.
I applied the patina a bit heavier on the sides like this
Restoration Hardware photo
See...
Step 8
Mix a dark glaze for burnishing.
Use a 1:1 ratio of water and glazing medium.
Add Ebony Black and Shimmering Silver.
Step 3
Hammer in tiny nails.
Step 4
Mix three shades of metallic paint.
Light. Medium. Dark.
Use a combination of:
Shimmering Silver
Titanium White
Ebony Black
Step 5
Using a rag to apply and blend
the different shades.
You don't need to be too particular about it either.
Imperfect works here.
Just use long strokes and work in sections
because the paint dries pretty quickly.
Here is my nightstand after the base coat of metallic paint.
You can stop here and have a beautiful piece of furniture.
If you want a more worn patina, continue...
Step 6
Mix a light glaze for the lighter patina.
Use a 1:1 ratio of water and glazing medium.
Add Titanium White and Shimmering Silver.
(Again, the Shimmering Silver is also available in a glaze so you could
use the pre-made glaze and simply add white.)
Step 7
Rub on the white patina.
I applied the patina a bit heavier on the sides like this
Restoration Hardware photo
Step 8
Mix a dark glaze for burnishing.
Use a 1:1 ratio of water and glazing medium.
Add Ebony Black and Shimmering Silver.
Step 9
Use a rag and chip brush to burnish certain areas.
Burnish more areas if you want a darker patina,
burnish less if you want to keep your piece lighter.
There's no right or wrong way.
Step 10
Use your rag and dark glaze mixture
to create imperfections
by swiping, rubbing, dabbing, etc.
Step 11
Use your rag and light and medium glaze mixtures
to create imperfections.
Step 12
Use a 2:1 ratio of glazing medium and Titanium White
WITHOUT water to create a white nook and cranny patina.
Use a fine tip paint brush to apply white patina
to the nooks and crannies. Wipe off excess with rag.
(Final) Step 14
(Final) Step 14
After your piece is completely dry,
apply a clear coat.
and then follow up with wipe on poly."
Why spray first?
Because you can rub off the acrylic paint if you don't.
Thank you for the tip, Marian!
Voila!
(...and not a speck on those white linens in my craft room/occasional guest bedroom.)
I hope you like the tutorial and find it helpful.
The video quality isn't the greatest but in this case,
I think it works better than photos.
And just in case you're wondering why I'm not talking in the videos,
the original PLAN was to splice them together into one video
with french music playing in the background.
However, my video software wasn't cooperating.
And just in case you're wondering why I'm not talking in the videos,
the original PLAN was to splice them together into one video
with french music playing in the background.
However, my video software wasn't cooperating.
If you have any questions, just put them in the comments
below or email me directly. I'm happy to help.
A few anticipated answers:
The chair in the background can be found here.
The tutorial for the rosette on the chair can be found here.
The song playing in two of the videos is "La vie en rose" by Edith Piaf.
The linens on the bed are Pottery Barn's "Hemstitch" collection and are about 6 years old.
Yes, I needed a manicure afterward.
And,
A few anticipated answers:
The chair in the background can be found here.
The tutorial for the rosette on the chair can be found here.
The song playing in two of the videos is "La vie en rose" by Edith Piaf.
The linens on the bed are Pottery Barn's "Hemstitch" collection and are about 6 years old.
Yes, I needed a manicure afterward.
And,
if you decide to faux zinc something,
I would love to see a picture.
I'll do a show-and-tell on my blog.
I'm off to zinc a baby or something...
I'm off to zinc a baby or something...
(No, not really! But it is addicting. Chalkboard paint addicting.)
This post is linking with
Wow! You did a wonderful job with this tutorial - I didn't realize there was so much involved with this process! I LOVE how your dresser turned out and I'm still excited to try it. I'm going to GW tomorrow to find the perfect piece to try it on - I'll send you a pic...if it turns out half as good as yours. :)
wow jami! you out did yourself! with the videos and the finished nightstand! how did you know to do all those different steps! you are good girl!
Jami - This is simply gorgeous! Great tutorial. You did an amazing job - I really like it. ~ Stephanie Lynn
Thanks for that, Jami, I think you have inspired me to try one for myself!
xx Karen
Jami, thank you for posting such a thorough tutorial! You spent a lot of time doing this. I am so excited to give this a try. Your piece is so pretty!
Thanks for posting that. I just love your french song you cutie!!
I thought you were super clever yesterday, but I didn't realise your talents extended to AMAZINGLY DETAILED AND ACTUALLY FOLLOWABLE tutorials too. Fab job. Thanks for sharing.
Looks too painstaking for me, but it is a beautiful result! Great tutorial!
Now I know why my DIY project always look like crap, I have no patience. What a lot of love went into this little nightstand. The videos are great so maybe I might try this one. Thanks for the hard work and inspiration.
Amazing task, amazing detailed tutorial! Thank you so much for sharing it!
Graciela Sosa
This tickles me pink! I love the look of this and the tutorial is great! You need to link this up to the DIY Club in August (starts 8/6).
Fabulous! I'm with Holly...I hope you link up the DIY Club August event!!
Thank you for such clear instructions and beautiful work. You are a master artist
Such an incredible tutorial. Thank you so much for taking the time. That piece is *inspired*!!! Way to go!
I love it! I read the post previous to this one, too, and am so, SO impressed! I am now adding this to my list of must-do projects! Thanks for the tutorial and advice! :)
I hope you have a beautiful weekend!
You are good! Love this!
I am your newest follower. Come follow back and happy blog hop!
Going to look around! You are very talented!
XO
Frenchy
Okay, standing ovation!!! it breathtaking!! great job.
Hi, hope it's OK to contact you here. We would love to include your blog on our giveaway search engine: Giveaway Scout (http://www.giveawayscout.com). Have a look and if interested, use our online form to add your blog (http://www.giveawayscout.com/addblog/ ). thanks, Josh
Hi! I'm your newest follower from the Friday Follows! Cool blog! I hope to see you at Dropped Stitches.
xo Erin
droppedstitches72.blogspot.com
Once again you have created a beautiful piece of furniture. But boy are you patient! I think I would try this but I would probably skip a few steps...just to get it done! How long did this take you to do all the steps? The nails make a big difference in the industrial look don't they? I think it came out fab!
Oh wow! You did a fantastic job! I love how your furniture turned out - absolutely beautiful!
The piece is gorgeous, I really want to try this on a dresser I have. All the tutorial photos are showing up as black squares however. Not sure why. I will try refresh to see if it fixes the problem!
Saw this on DIY showoff. It is beautiful! I am in the process of staining some nightstands, wish I had seen this a few days ago, but I've got some ideas. Thanks for the step by step!
That is so outstanding! You did a great job, and I'm happy I found your blog!
Hi Jami! Fantastic tutorial and gorgeous dresser! Wanted to let you know I'll be featuring this today. Stop by and grab a featured button if you like. Thanks so much for joining the Sunday Showcase - I greatly appreciate it. Hope you have a fabulous week! ~ Stephanie Lynn
So Cool! I have to try that sometime! Thanks for the great tutorial!
Jami - what a wonderfully instructional tutorial! Thank you so much for all the time and effort you put in to attempting to teach us rookies out here. lol! You do such beautiful work. Do you know if it would work on a piece of icky laminate countertop?
xoxo laurie@heavens-walk
OK - I bought a power sander today (my favorite purchase of the year) and have almost finished sanding the first of two matching nightstands. I am 100% committed to making my faux zinc night stands happen and I don't want to cut any corners. I didn't use any type of varnish or lacquer remover to get down to bare wood and I'm wondering if I should - especially for the crevices my sander isn't reaching. The stuff I bought off Craig's List is 10 yr old Crate and Barrel pieces made of real wood - it is taking a long time to get off the finish. Is a liquid chemical remover the way to go? I've searched the web for an answer but found no clear guidance. Any help would be appreciated.
OOPS I spoke too soon. This will qualify that you entered perfectly and you will receive a coupon from the Canvas People soon.
Cheri
I LOVE IT but can't believe you did not get a speck of paint on your white linens. The whole time I watch the clips I was asking "how you did it? " I am the messiest painter, no matter how hard I try I still get covered in paint every time I do a project.
Wow! Totally amazing. Thank you for sharing.
This is a truly great way to recycle (or upcycle as I like to call it.) I love it and would love to see you post this at my linky party Upcycled Awesome!
http://tinyurl.com/Upcycled9 and come back to my blog for Stashbusting-September. I promise it will be worth your while!
LOVE this idea! I just did a post on my "wish list" from Restoration Hardware and that dresser was on it!! :)
I think I will share this tutorial with my readers! Thanks so much!! :)
Ruth
What a great tutorial. I just love how it turned out. I'm looking at pieces on Craig's List so I can try it.
Thanks for linking up to the “Cheap Thrills Thursday” party at Black Kats Design. I hope you had fun and will join in again next Thursday!
Kat
www.BlackKatsDesign.blogspot.com
Thanks so much for the visual tutorial and the project...I followed your steps to make a "zinc" framed chalkboard out of a $1.00 garage sale 8x10 frame. I LOVE IT!
Great tutorial and inspiration! I use a different process & products, but it's really all about the end result, isn't it?! Here's a link to a photo, of a small table I used my zinc treatment on: http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs105.ash2/38583_418376792014_71007972014_5238288_6161290_n.jpg
Deb @ Retreat
Thank you so much for the tutorial...you made it so easy to do. I haven't tried this on furniture yet but I did make a killer menu board out of a $1 yard sale picure frame. Here is the link http://mudpiesandmarigolds.blogspot.com/2010/08/making-most-of-naptime.html
so amazing! just found this and had to share with friends on twitter. what a great job. it looks so high-end!
I followed your tutorial and just completed my nightstand. I LOVE it! Thank you so much for posting this!!!!
You're welcome! I'm happy that your nightstand turned out great. Thanks for taking the time to comment. :)
Hugs,
Jami
Thanks so much for posting this! I've bookmarked your page. I'm a kitchen designer (designing her own kitchen), looking for a less expensive range hood that looks great, so I thought I could make my own. I've found this one to copy: http://www.handcraftedmetal.com/gallery/hoodsZinc/SingleRoll/pages/SH173b.html
and I'll be building it myself out of plywood, wood straps and nailheads. I'm so excited to get started!
This is unbelievable! Thank you for the extremely thorough tutorial.
I am so inspired!
Especially love the nail details.
i am so excited and nervous to try this!!! i cant imagine it coming out as good as yours...where did you get those nightstands?
wow. you have a fantastic talent. i will try. tyvm hun.
You love Edith Piaff! o.k. now I'm certain we were cut from the same cloth! Linen? or dropcloths?
I love your faux zinc and was thinking of trying it on the outer edge of the beveled mirror in one of my bathrooms do you think this technique will work on a mirrored surface? any tips would be great!
hi! I'm so excited that I found this tutorial, because I've been wondering if this type of finish could be done on wood! I'm thinking of doing this to dining room chairs to match a more modern glass table I'm getting! I'm thinking it'll prove to be a tad bit more difficult to maneuver around a chair, but I'm willing to try!
It turned out beautiful! I would love to do a tall dresser that have in this finish. Do you think I should double my supplies? I would assume you used all of your paint on this night stand and that I may need double to finish a dresser.
Oh and I am a new follower! :)
I love it!!! The French music goes perfect with the zinc!! :)
I have a table that needs something but no colors were "it" but I hadn't thought of metallic at all. But now that I see this, I think this is "IT!!"
Thank you so much for sharing and especially for the videos!! :)