Milk paint, which is produced from organic raw materials, allows you to paint a piece with rich, fade-resistant colors. But that’s just the start of what milk paint can do. You can also use it to create an authentic distressed-looking finish.
Milk Paint Makeover. A timeworn finish may suit an item better than a brand-new one. This simple stool, for example, benefits from its interesting new paint scheme. Continue through the slides to see how you can transform your own pieces.
Milk paint is available through online retailers in both pre-mixed and powdered forms. To achieve this distressed, vintage look, choose two colors: one dark and one lighter. First, apply a darker base color, and let it dry. Next, brush on a lighter shade, and allow this coat to dry, too.
Once the paint is dry, you’re ready to start the distressing process. Use an abrasive pad to burnish areas that normally show wear, such as corners, edges, and raised details.
The abrasive pad will take care of the areas that show heavy wear, but you’ll also want to lightly distress the larger surfaces. To do so, simply rub the piece with sandpaper until you're happy with the appearance of the finish.