Paint Washing Technique

The technique of "Washing" with paint is easy and fun! It's a great way to show off the grain of the wood, like when you use stain, and it allows you to add color to the piece at the same time.  Let get started!

Supplies

- Latex Paint

- Wash Cloth

- Bucket of Water 

Washing on a blue paint with a wet rag.  

A shelf form the folding table that was washed with grey.

I start by filling a bucket about a quarter of the way with warm water. Wearing gloves will keep the paint from staining your hands as well. I start by dipping my rag into the water and ringing it out. I don’t like to have the rag dripping wet but dampness of the rag determines the coverage of the paint. The damper the rag the more washed out the color will be. So with the rag wet, I dip the tip into the paint and wipe the paint on the wood. I like to work it in just like if I’m applying a stain. I rinse out my rag regularly, living in New Mexico where it’s dry and hot most of the year, the rag tends to start drying out pretty quickly. I continue the process until the piece is complete. If you are changing colors I recommend changing your water and your rags so you don’t mix your colors accidentally with the rinse water. 

Hope this has inspired you to turn something ordinary into a special piece but if you don't have the time to make your own, contact me for a custom piece and let me bring you that A Rustic Rose you've been looking for. 

Finished folding table with a washed white top and washed grey base. 

Thank you for spending time with me and until next time....

Addie