How-To
How to Use Traditional Milk Paint
Learn how to apply a classic Shaker finish
When Fine Woodworking senior editor Matt Kenney set his sights upon recreating a Shaker cupboard originally built out of the movement’s Enfield, CT congregation, he knew it wouldn’t be a strict reproduction. Instead, Kenney hoped to update the classic 19th century cupboard.
One of the additions he made to the original design was a pair of dovetailed drawers mounted within the cabinet. To add a bit of flare and color, Kenney finished the drawer fronts with milk paint, a traditional Shaker finish.
In this step-by-step video tutorial, he demonstrates the proper way to apply milk paint, with two variations on how to achieve a deep luster that begs to be touched.
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Comments
Great job Matt. Beautiful work not only on the milk paint finish but the entire piece is an inspiring example of your fine work.
It is HIS piece, he can do whatever he wants with it.
But, there should be against some kind of woodworking rule to NEVER paint a custom made piece like this. Further insult to the beautiful piece is that it is Maple. YIKES! I winced in pain watching him paint the drawer fronts.
Personally, I would not even paint those pieces in those stores that sell pine furniture without finish on them.
Question: Can milk paint be used on outdoor furniture?
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