Metal Wood Graining Process

Preparation

• The first part of the metal wood-graining process involves proper preparation of the metal surface. At a minimum, the surfaces needs to be thoroughly cleaned and sanded so that no debris remain. Depending upon the type of faux finish you are going to apply, you might need to take a few additional steps in the preparation process to achieve the desired effect. For instance, if you want to truly give the metal a texture that resembles wood grain, you can use a steel wire brush wheel at an angle to create a semi-textured finish on the metal before you apply a color or finish.

Undercoat

• Once the surface is adequately cleaned and prepared, you can then apply the first undercoat to provide the metal surface with its color. This can be done with a wood-colored paint. You can also use a gel stain as an effective undercoating. This will simulate the actual color of wood and can be used for texture purposes, as well. Avoid thin stains that can run and do not add any texture to the metal surface.

Texture

• Texture is the key to the metal wood-graining process. Texture can be applied in different ways and is usually determined based on your own preferences and what you are trying to accomplish. One technique for adding texture is to simply add a slightly darker color to the undercoat as you try to match the wood grain color of another part of the home, such as the wood floor. Rather than paint the color on though, you lightly brush the undercoat so that some of the original color shows through the second layer. You can add additional layers as needed. If using a gel stain, you can purchase a texturing tool from a home improvement store and use this to apply texture. These tools work like a comb that you simply drag through the gel stain to provide the simulation of wood grain.

Sealant

• Once you have reached the desired texture you want, the final step in the wood-graining process is applying a sealant that ensures that the finish will be long-lasting. A basic polyurethane sealant will do the trick in most cases. You don't want to leave this step out, especially because you will be applying multiple colors on top of one another. Should one of the underlying colors start to chip and peel, so too will the rest of the finish. A sealant will help hold the layers in place.