Author: Iva D. Kimmell

This example used a yellow first coat with a purple top coat. Below see other examples that show other color combinations.

Design Series:
Decorative
Painting
Techniques

Crackle Finish

©Copyright 2004 PaintR, Inc.

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The tell tail sign of old furniture is a crackled paint finish. This same effect is easy to achieve, without the hundred-year wait. The process is simple enough for a novice do-it-yourselfer and requires few supplies.
Materials:
Steel wool or sand paper (only needed if project surface is slick)
Latex paint (two colors)
Crackle-finish medium
Paintbrush or roller
Polyurethane sealer
1) Choose the object you wish to work on. Hint: start with a small piece or do a practice board. While this is an easy project, there are options for different effects and application procedures vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
2) You will then need to prepare the surface for the crackle finish. If the surface is slick, you will need to remove this using the steel wool or sand paper; slick surfaces will not accept paint.

Another technique to ready a slick surface to accept paint is to paint the surface with a special primer. Ask a sales person to help you pick the correct primer for the type of surface you are finishing.
3) Next clean the surface, make sure the surface is dry before beginning this project. The final step in preparation is to mask off any areas that will not receive the crackle finish.
Note: Remember, the first coat of paint will be the color that shows through the cracks. A subtle look is achieved by choosing paints that are a close color match (e.g. cream under white, see cover). Differences in color allow for a more striking appearance.
4) Paint the surface with the first color; remember this color will show through the cracks. Allow to dry completely.

5) Apply the crackle medium closely following the manufactures instructions. This step varies according to the manufacturer of the crackle medium, pay particular attention to the timing needed for this layer. If you go past the time allowed to paint the top coat of paint, you will need to re-apply the crackle medium.
6) After the recommended time, apply the top coat of paint. Generally, the thicker the paint is applied the bigger the cracks, a thinner coat of paint will give the effect of hairline cracks. Note: This may vary by manufacturer, however many crackle mediums start to crackle immediately. Avoid painting over the area you have already painted, this will disrupt the crackle.
7) Allow the paint to dry thoroughly then apply a polyurethane sealer.

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