How to Antique Furniture With Crackle Paint

Wipe down the furniture with a damp cloth before you begin painting. To remove more stubborn stains, use a low-sudsing soap and water. Lightly sand your furniture to roughen up the surface -- if your furniture is too smooth, the new paint is less likely to adhere easily.

Apply the first coat of paint with a roller. Use a brush to get paint into cutouts or around corners on the furniture. Let the paint dry for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. Oil-based paints typically take longer to dry.

Apply a crackle glaze medium to the furniture. Use a brush to apply the glaze, always working in one direction. Let the glaze dry per the manufacturer's instructions. Pay special attention to when you must apply the final coat of paint. You must apply it within a certain amount of time. In some cases, if you do not add the second coat of paint within four hours, you may not have as effective a crackle look.

Add the second coat of paint with a brush or sponge. The crackles will begin to appear as you apply the second coat. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly.

Brush on a water-based clear coat to protect your furniture. Let the clear coat dry before you return the furniture to regular use.