DIY Network

All Projects

TV Projects

    What Do You Want To Work On?

      What Activity Do You Want To Do?

        0

        Available Projects

        Get Results

        Milk-Paint Finish

        Milk painting can give unfinished furniture a distinctive antique look, a method of finishing that was popular a century ago.

        More in Painting

        paint surface of piece with coat of milk paint

        Step 1: Determine if Milk Paint is Suitable for your Project

        During the early and mid-1800s, furniture was often painted with paint made from a combination of milk, lime and natural pigments. Today powdered milk-paint formulas, available in a variety of colors, may be used to create an attractive and durable finish. Milk paint is a good choice for less expensive woods such as pine and fir that aren't prized for their grain patterns.

        Step 2: Measure Water and Powdered Milk

        Once you've selected a color, measure equal amounts of powder and warm water in separate containers. Add the powder to the water, and stir until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. For a thinner paint, add more water. Mix thoroughly for about 3 minutes, then let the paint stand for about 15 minutes

        get the milk paint mixed and ready to use

        Courtesy of James Calloway

        Step 3: Remove Dust from Furniture

        Wipe the wood with a damp cloth to remove any dust and dampen the wood (Image 1). Seal any knots with fast-drying shellac (Image 2).

        Step 4: Paint the Surface

        Use a foam or synthetic-bristle brush to paint the entire surface with a first coat of milk paint. For a thin coat--almost like a stain--add more water to the mixture. For a thicker coat, or for stenciling, add more powder.

        Let the paint dry for about 2 hours, then buff it with a synthetic sanding pad. If you wish, apply a second coat.

        Step 5: Distress the Furniture

        Once the piece has been painted, it can be carefully distressed with a sanding pad to remove paint from areas that would be worn on a true antique--for example, around the feet or along the front edges.

        Step 6: Apply a Water-Based Finish

        Once you're done distressing the finish, you may want to protect the milk paint by applying a clear water-based finish with a foam brush. This will help bring out the color of the milk paint.

        water based finish will bring out color of paint

        Courtesy of James Calloway

        Was this project helpful?

        Don't forget: Read comments and leave your own

        Advertisement

        COMMENT ON THIS PROJECT

            

        Sign in

        All fields are required.

        E-mail Address:

        Password:

        Remember me on this computer

        Signing in

        Please enter your email address and we will send your password

        E-mail Address

        Your password has been sent and should arrive in your mailbox very soon.

        Not a member?

        Sign up with DIY Network to share tips with other do-it-yourselfers and comment and ask questions on projects.

        It's free and easy.