Transforming this vintage chair from its tired, faded state into a rich, primitive beauty was a rewarding process. With just the right combination of products and techniques, I was able to bring out the wood’s natural character while giving it a beautifully aged patina. If you’re looking to achieve a similar look, here’s s how I did it step by step.
Step 1: Prepping the Chair with Furniture Tonic
To begin, I sprayed WO Tonic generously over the chair to revive the dry wood and enhance its natural grain. This step is crucial for creating a deep, rich finish. The tonic comes with a pump, but I prefer a sprayer for a more even and controlled application. If you’re like to try it yourself, you can grab the sprayer here:
You can also find the furniture tonic I used here:
Step 2: Building Depth with Black Walnut Wax
Once the tonic had set in, I started layering black walnut wax, working it thoroughly into the wood to create a warm, primitive look. This wax is perfect for achieving that timeworn, rustic charm. To get the best results, I applied it in thin layers, occasionally misting more tonic to help thin the wax and blend it seamlessly.
If you’re interested in trying out the wax, you can find it here:
Step 3: Choosing the Right Brushes
Initially, I used a 2” palm brush, which worked well for larger areas but was too bulky to maneuver between the chair spindles. I switched to a 1”round brush for more precise application in tighter spaces. This change made all the difference in achieving a smooth, even finish throughout the chair.
You can find the brushes I used here:
The Final Result
The end result is a stunning transformation this once dull and lifeless chair now boasts a deep, rich color with an authentic, aged appeal. The layers of wax and tonic brought out the natural beauty of the wood, while careful brushwork ensured every detail was highlighted beautifully.
Whether you’re refinishing a single piece or tackling an entire furniture set, these techniques and products will help you achieve a timeless, primitive look with ease. Stay tuned for more refinishing tips and transformations!
* Wise Owl Black Walnut Wax and Tonic typically takes about 24 hours to dry to the touch, but full curing can take 3 to 5 days, depending on factors such as humidity and temperature. For best results, it’s recommended to allow the finish to cure fully before heavy use to ensure durability and proper adhesion.
1 comment
This was great! What if you’re repainting or painting over original color. Beginner here. Thank you so much. I could send you a photo of the piece I will be refinishing. Thank you so much!!