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How to Antique Exterior Statues

Exterior statues are made from many different materials, including concrete, stone, marble or sandstone. Left to their own devices and the changing seasons, exterior statues will antique by themselves. But nothing stands out like a brand new statue in an established garden. Such statues draw too much attention to themselves and detract from their surroundings instead of blending in and adding aesthetic beauty to the garden. Help new statues along the road to antiquity and they'll soon look right at home.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean water
  • Bucket
  • Brush
  • Concrete sealer
  • Paintbrush
  • Latex concrete paint
  • Latex exterior paint sealer
  • Damp cloth
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the statue with clear water. Use a brush and water from a bucket, or use a garden hose.

    • 2

      Apply a water-based concrete or stone sealer to seal the surface of the statue with a brush or cloth. Allow this to dry for 24 to 48 hours.

    • 3

      Paint an exterior latex concrete paint in black or brown over the statue, then wipe off the excess with a damp cloth before it's had time to dry. Work on small areas at a time to avoid letting the paint dry. When the whole statue is covered, allow the paint to dry for 24 hours.

    • 4

      Finish with coat of exterior latex sealer for concrete or stone.