How to Create Rustic White Furniture
If you’re trying to give your home a country vibe, but don’t want to purchase new furniture, here’s how to create rustic white furniture. Bright white furniture can look too fresh and modern for your rustic decor. To make bright white furniture look rustic, use various finishing techniques. Older kids may want to try some of these finishing techniques since they can give your furniture a beating! Luckily, these techniques are easy enough for even kids to handle!
Distressed furniture
One of the easiest ways to create a distressed look without sandpaper is to paint your furniture. You can use flat paint like milk or chalk paint. When painting, don’t put on too many layers so the underlayer of paint shows through. Use a wet rag to scrape off excess paint from the edges and around the hardware. If you want to achieve a worn-looking finish, you can use more sandpaper to achieve a rougher look.
Distressed paint
Painting furniture can give your room a distressed look without using sandpaper. Choose a flat paint like chalk or milk paint. Don’t apply too many coats to prevent the underlayer from showing through. Once the paint has dried, you can use a wet rag to wipe off any excess paint around the hardware or edges. Start with fine-grit sandpaper and work your way up.
Milk paint
Milk paint is a powder that is mixed with water to create a creamy consistency. It is recommended to use a milk frother or blender for this process because the powder will spoil quickly when mixed with water. You should use a lid or plastic wrap to store it in the fridge between applications. Once the first coat of paint has been applied, you can seal the container to protect it. Milk paint lasts up to several days in the fridge.
Latex paint
Whether you’re trying to add character to your home, or you simply want to update your old furniture, there are many ways to achieve a rustic, white finish. Latex paint is the cheapest option, but it won’t distress easily. It’s also available in a range of sheens, so you can find one that suits your needs. If you’re looking for a unique look, you can also mix your own homemade chalk paint with this popular paint.
Oil-based paint
The most common type of paint for rustic white furniture is oil-based. Oil-based paint has the advantage of being durable and adheres to wood without primer. This type of paint is also more difficult to use because of the chemicals it contains. The paint dries slowly and requires ample ventilation. However, oil-based paint is not available everywhere and is often banned in some areas. For this reason, you should only use it on pieces that are very well-maintained.
Natural finish
If you want your white furniture to look old and rustic, a natural finish is a way to go. While there are many types of finishes to choose from, you should avoid oil-based products, as these can give the wood an amber color. Instead, choose water-based finishes that don’t add any color. Water-based finishes come in a variety of colors, including ivory, brown, and tan.
