A Faux Wood Painting Tutorial

I just finished painting my metal door to make it look like wood. This is a great way to add character & warmth where it didn't exist before! Here's the video of a Studio 5 segment demonstrating this technique - followed by a text/photo tutorial . . . 

And here are the steps . . .

Clean the object you are painting & if the surface is shiny, it might need a primer.

Step 1: Cover with a layer of paint. I used Behr exterior flat paint in "Apricot Light". Allow to dry.
Step 2: Add a coat of a light gel stain. I used Old Masters "Maple 81208". Allow to dry.

Step 3: With a little of the darker stain color {I used Minwax Chestnut 601} on a sponge brush, twirl it in a circle to make a "knot". It can be dabbed with a rag if too much is applied. Allow to dry.
Step 4: Apply a layer of the darker stain. {In this case, Minwax Chestnut 601 again. Allow to dry.
Next: Apply a layer of polyurethane. I like Varathane Spar Urethane Outdoor Clear SATIN finish.

This technique works really well & I think it is really easy to pull off. {But of course I cannot promise you will get the same results I did.} I do recommend that you practice before painting anything of importance. 

You can get most of the supplies I used on-line if it's more convenient for you. (If you order from the links provided, Honey I'm Home receives a small commission - this helps me keep my blog running. Thank you!)

• Old Masters Gell Stain "Maple 81208"
• Minwax Stain "Chestnut 601"
• Varathane Spar Urethane Outdoor Clear SATIN
• Sponge brushes