Shabby Chic Wood Furniture Paint Techniques

Milk Wash

• A milk wash (also referred to as a whitewash) adds a white creamy finish that is common to shabby chic furnishings. This technique involves mixing the milk paint with water and painting a layer onto the furniture piece; the finish is thin and irregular, giving it an aged look.

Distressing

• One distressing technique involves using a hammer, chisel or a bag full of pennies to inflict damage to your furniture. This will make your piece look like it has become weathered over time. Finish with a coat of paint that matches the shabby chic style. White is always a good option for a shabby chic look, or else use a pastel color like white, blue, yellow or pink.

Sandpaper Distressing

• Using sandpaper to distress a piece of furniture can make it look a little rougher around the edges, as if it has gradually worn with time. Stain the furniture piece in the color of your choice or paint it. A rough rubbing with sandpaper around the legs, drawers and doors adds character to the piece and mimics the effect of aging over long periods of time.

Crackle Finish

• Adding a crackle finish to your shabby chic furniture piece will make it look like an antique piece with paint that is chipping off. Paint your piece, add a crackle glaze (available at most home improvement stores) and add a final coat of paint on top to achieve this look for your shabby chic furniture.