One of the last furniture painting techniques that I felt confident to try was adding texture to my painted furniture. I longed to create layered boho and industrial looks but just didn’t know where to start. I needed to learn how to add texture!
Supplies
- Dixie Belle Patina Paint
- Dixie Belle Patina Spray
- Dixie Belle Silk All-in-Mineral Paint – Hampton Olive and Cape Current
- Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint – Peacock, Kudzu and Haint Blue
- Dixie Belle Gilding Wax – Bronze and Gold
- Dixie Belle Sea Spray
- Dixie Belle Best Dang Wax – Clear and Brown
Option 1: Patina Paint
For my first try at adding texture, I turned to Dixie Belle’s line of Patina Paint and Activating Sprays. When you spray the patina activating spray over Bronze, Copper or Iron, texture is automatically created for you – crusty and rusty! I used all three for this horse bust and added some gold Gilding Wax for highlights. For tips and techniques, please refer to How to Use Patina Paint.
Option 2: Texture Additive
It’s only been recently that I have tried creating my own texture…and I don’t know why I waited so long! Having the right product makes all the difference. In the past, I tried adding a variety of materials to my paint (salt, kaolin powder) but Dixie Belle’s Sea Spray texture additive made it easy! Directions call for 2 level scoops for 8 oz. of paint but I usually mix much smaller amounts. I start by adding small amounts of Sea Spray at a time, stirring until it reaches a brownie batter consistency.
For these angel wings I started with a base coat of Silk All-in-One Mineral Paint in Cape Current (those are the hints of blue popping thru!). The built in primer was a time saver! I added Sea Spray to Haint Blue chalk mineral paint and used an old chip brush to apply in a pouncing motion. I like a lot of texture so I try to create little peaks with the mixture. Once it dries I have the option of sanding them down for a softer, more subtle effect. Finally, I added a color wash by mixing Peacock and Kudzu with water, sealed with Best Dang Wax in Clear and added some age with Best Dang Wax in Brown.
