There’s just something about an old basket that begs for a second chance. Thrift store finds like these are perfect for adding a primitive, timeworn charm to your space—without spending a fortune. In this post, I’ll walk you through how I gave two basic baskets a beautiful, rustic finish using simple products (including my DIY liming glaze recipe), and exactly how you can do it too.
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Step 1: Create a Rich, Aged Base
To start, I used a mix of clear glaze and brown umber paint (linked here). Just brush the mixture into the basket, getting into all the nooks and weaves. You don’t need to wipe it back—just let it dry as-is to keep that rich tone settled into the texture.
Pro tip: You can also use an umber paint wash—it gives a very similar effect if that’s what you have on hand.
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Step 2: Add a Chunky Primitive Black
Once your glaze layer is completely dry, it’s time to bring in the drama. Mix Liquitex Mars Black acrylic paint with a bit of baking soda until it has a gritty, paste-like texture. This combo gives an earthy, aged, almost “charred” look that no other black paint quite delivers.
Brush the mixture on unevenly—primitive isn’t perfect—and let the natural texture of the basket help do the work.
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Step 3: Make Your Own Liming Glaze
Valspar used to make a liming glaze I loved, but since it’s been discontinued, I just make my own—and honestly, I might love it even more.
DIY Liming Glaze Recipe
What You’ll Need:
• White paint (chalk, flat latex, or acrylic craft paint all work)
• Clear glaze – I highly recommend Fusion’s Clear Glaze.
Use code: vintagefurniturefindsfmp for 10% off
• Optional: a little water if you want a thinner effect
Ratio:
• 1 part white paint
• 2–3 parts clear glaze
Mix until smooth. If it’s too thick, thin it slightly with water.
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Step 4: Apply the Liming Glaze
• Brush it on with a sponge brush or cloth, working it into the texture.
• Let it sit for 1–3 minutes—the longer it sits, the more pigment will settle into the details.
• Wipe off the excess with a clean, lint-free cloth, following the grain. If it gets too heavy, a mist of water will soften and reactivate the glaze so you can lighten it up.
This step creates that signature “washed and weathered” look that really brings the basket to life.
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Step 5: Seal It Up
Once it’s fully dry, I give the whole thing a quick coat of matte clear spray sealer. This helps lock everything in without adding shine, keeping that flat, primitive look we love.
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Before and After
These once-forgotten baskets now feel like they’ve lived through a hundred years of stories—and all it took was a little glaze, some paint, and a whole lot of character.
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Shop the Supplies:
• Clear Glaze: Fusion Clear Glaze – 10% off with code: vintagefurniturefindsfmp
• Brown Umber Paint + Glaze Combo: Buy here
• Liquitex Mars Black (with baking soda for texture): Available at most art supply stores or online
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Let me know if you try this technique—I’d love to see your primitive transformations! Tag me over on Instagram at @vintagefurniturefinds.
