Replies

1. 
   Gretchen | Jan 03, 2003 08:41pm | #1

   You might try a really fine crackle finish.  Or paint it and rub off some edges where normal wear might have taken place. Then go over it all with an umber stain wiped off and finally a wiped on varnish for protection. 

   You could also try milk paint as your paint and sand it off in a lot places. You may want to lightly stain your piece before painting so the exposed wood is a bit darker.

   Gretchen
2. 
   TomS | Jan 04, 2003 12:03am | #2

   I use a couple of coats of a red milk paint with sanding (some places aggressive) between coats.  From there I use a dark latex paint that I put on with a brush and rub in with a rag.  I've then used a wax or oil over that finish.  I use a dark stain in some places as well.  My wife is an art teacher and has all sort of oils around.  I mix until she scolds or the color gets just right to my eye.

   The best way to do this stuff is to find an example and use it as a guide to get the finish as close as you can.  There is a book of  projects by David T Smith that explains 'aged' finishes fairly well.  f

   Tom