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Create a beautiful shabby chic effect on wood with Vaseline

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2. Age Resistance

In this method, the beeswax acts as a protective layer between two layers of paint. In places where beeswax has been applied, the top layer of paint will not be absorbed. This allows you to easily sand away and expose the bottom layer of paint.

Supplies:

100% natural beeswax blocks
Sandpaper or sanding block
Damp cloth

Staircase:

Apply beeswax to the areas of the item where natural wear is visible. This is done over the first coat of paint, which must be completely dry.
Apply a second coat of paint over the beeswax and allow it to dry completely. Sand the second coat down with sandpaper or a sanding block so that the first coat is visible where you applied the beeswax.

3. Wet aging

This method is faster and does not require sanding. You age the paint while it is still wet, creating a soft, naturally worn effect.

Supplies:

Fabric brush
Wet (optional)

Staircase:
After painting the surface, wait about 20 minutes.
Using a damp cloth (and a sponge if necessary), wipe off some paint in the areas where you want to create a distressed look. Because the paint is still wet, you can easily wipe it off, creating a nice, soft, worn effect.
4. Vaseline and Wood

This technique is similar to aging with beeswax, but much easier and faster. The Vaseline acts as a protective layer and allows you to rub off the top layer of paint if you want to create an aged look.

Supplies:

Vaseline
Lap
Wet paint (base and top coat)

Stairs:

Allow the base coat to dry completely.
Apply Vaseline to the areas where you want the paint to peel or be damaged. You can apply Vaseline with your fingers, perfection is not necessary.
Paint the entire room with one coat as if the Vaseline wasn't there.

Once the top coat is completely dry, use a damp cloth to wipe it off where you applied the Vaseline. This will reveal the base layer underneath.

Tip: The more often you wipe, the more damage will be done to the item. This method will give you a beautifully aged result without the need for sanding!

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