Ever spot one of those dated, too-colorful vases at the thrift store and think, “You could be so much better”? That was the story behind this transformation. With the help of Fusion Mineral Paint’s Fresco powder, a bit of patience, and the right layering, I turned a bright patterned pot into this aged, stone-like beauty—perfect for any vintage, modern rustic, or primitive decor style.
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Step 1: Prime for Success
Before diving into the texture, I gave the vase a good clean and sprayed it with bonding primer. This helps everything grip better—especially important on slick ceramic or glass surfaces. I let it dry thoroughly before the fun began.
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Step 2: Create the Textured Base
Here’s where things get gritty—in a good way. I mixed Fusion’s Fresco Powder with Liquitex acrylic paint in Mars Black to create a gritty, paste-like texture. Using a chip brush, I dabbed the mixture all over the vase.
You can also use baking soda to achieve a similar texture, but Fresco powder gives more reliable results. It clings better, dries with more depth, and creates a beautifully chalky stone finish that baking soda just can’t replicate.
Once fully dry, I lightly sanded a few spots where the texture looked a little too thick. This step softens any harsh spots while still keeping that lovely aged feel.
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Step 3: Opaque Layering
Next came the layering magic. I used a chip brush and water to alternately apply Liquitex Prussian Blue and Payne’s Gray, working in thin, dabbed layers. I took my time, using a shop towel to blot any areas that started looking too heavy. The result? A beautifully muted, worn-in look that feels like it’s been weathered by time.
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Step 4: Add Subtle Highlights
Once the darker tones were dry, I used Titanium White sparingly—just enough to catch a few raised areas and add soft highlights. A chip brush helped me dry brush this on so it wouldn’t overpower the rich depth underneath.
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Step 5: Seal It
To protect the finish while keeping that chalky, matte look, I sealed the entire vase with a clear matte spray.
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Final Look
From glossy and dated to aged and artful—this vase now looks like it came straight out of an old-world European farmhouse. Perfectly imperfect.
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Supplies Used
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Whether you’re reviving an old vase or giving a modern piece some vintage charm, this layered textured technique brings instant character. Fusion’s Fresco powder makes the process easy, fun, and incredibly forgiving—so don’t be afraid to experiment. Trust your brush, embrace the texture, and watch that transformation come to life.
