How to Achieve a Faux Shabby-Chic Painting Technique

Shabby chic is a superb DIY technique because it takes advantage of irregularities that may occur when you do a faux finish. Normally, a marred finish is unwanted. With shabby chic, it fits right in. The desired goal is a weathered, irregular surface, so some oddities in the application of the finish works fine. You don't need to worry overmuch regarding preparation. A worn-in look is just fine. Shabby chic is typically a faux finish applied to wooden furniture or cabinets. The preparation is done, then you paint on a glaze. Once the glaze is dry, you work it a bit to create the lived-in look.

Acrylic matte medium
Acrylic paints
Container for glaze
2-inch paint brush
Steel wool
Sandpaper (220 grit)

Instructions

- 1
  Sand the surface with sandpaper. Rough it up and don't worry about leaving a smooth surface.
- 2
  Pour a pint of medium in the container.
- 3
  Add acrylic paint in the color of choice. A light blue-green is a good cool choice. Warmer options are light orange and red oxide. You may also choose to match tiles or window treatments, for example. Add a teaspoon first, then mix.
- 4
  Test the glaze when fully mixed. It should be almost opaque, with some color from the surface underneath peeking through. If not, add more paint. If it's opaque, add more medium.
- 5
  Brush on the glaze. Follow the grain or use vertical strokes. Allow it to dry.
- 6
  Rub into the surface with steel wool. Buff it and scrape up the finish. Work the corners especially hard, as the the edges next. This is where the preponderance of natural wear occurs.

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