How to Make a Contemporary Iron-Framed Bed Look Antique Shabby Chic

Use a screwdriver to remove the metal bed’s headboard, footboard and side pieces. Place any loose screws in a small plastic container. Wipe dust and debris away using an old, wet cloth. Move the parts to a well-ventilated area, such as a garage, driveway or porch, to paint.

Spread a drop cloth or old newspapers on the ground. Dip a 2-inch nylon paintbrush into crackle glaze and apply it to all of the metal bed parts using long, even strokes. To ensure all areas are covered, paint metal detailing and embellishments and smooth ridges and bumps with the paintbrush. When finished, allow the glaze to dry for approximately 2 hours.

Apply a single coat of white acrylic paint to the headboard, footboard and side pieces. Use even strokes in the same direction to ensure smooth coverage. Let bed parts air dry for 24 hours. During this time period, allow the paint to dry into multiple tiny cracks, exposing the original metal underneath.

Spray clear sealant over the headboard, footboard and side pieces. Allow them to dry for approximately 4 hours before reassembling the metal bed.

Make the reassembled bed with shabby chic style linens that contain small, floral patterns and country gingham on a white background. Cover the bed with a country quilt predominately in blues, greens, reds and yellows. Stack pillows in lace-trimmed cases at the head of the bed and arrange smaller decorative pillows on top of the larger pillows.