Create a Stunning Aged Wood Finish
, by Ryan Casuga, 3 min reading time
In this step-by-step guide, Patricia Skelton, walks us through how to create an aged, weathered wood look with the help of Better With Age and a mica powder glaze.
Whether you're transforming furniture, decor pieces, or small accents, this technique adds character and elegance to any project.
Follow along as Patricia demonstrates how to achieve this stunning aged wood effect.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Better With Age
- Glazed Over
- Mica Powder (Diamond Dust & Bright Bronze)
- Light Wax
- Dark Wax
- Dust of Ages
- Natural Bristle Brush
- Lint-Free Cloth
Step 1: Preparing the Surface
Start with raw wood—this is essential for the Better With Age product to interact with the natural tannins in the wood. If you’re working with a wood that has a lower tannin content (like birch, maple, or pine), you may notice a lighter result. Woods like oak or mahogany will naturally darken more due to their tannin levels.
Apply two coats of Better With Age using a sponge brush. Ensure the product is mixed well to blend the ingredients evenly. Let each coat air dry completely before proceeding.
Step 2: Adding Depth with Mica Powder and Glazed Over
After the Better With Age coats have dried, it’s time to add texture and shimmer using Glazed Over and mica powders. For this step, you can mix the Glazed Over with your choice of mica powder for a subtle or striking metallic effect.
- Mix the Glazed Over and Mica Powder: Patricia uses a 1:1 ratio for a more opaque finish, but you can adjust the ratio depending on the level of sheen you're aiming for.
- Apply the Mixture: Use a natural bristle brush to apply the glaze to your project. As you apply it, aim to achieve a balanced effect where some of the wood shows through for a naturally aged appearance.
Step 3: Sealing with Wax
Once the glaze has dried, you’ll seal the piece with light and dark wax to enhance the richness of the finish.
- Apply Light Wax First: Use the light wax as a base, applying it lightly and evenly with a bristle brush. This creates a subtle sheen and prepares the surface for the next layer.
- Add Dark Wax for Aging: To give your piece an authentic aged look, lightly apply dark wax around the edges and in crevices. This step adds depth and emphasizes the texture.
Step 4: Adding Dust of Ages
For a final touch of authenticity, sprinkle Dust of Ages into the crevices of your piece. This gives the illusion of years of natural wear.
- Apply Generously: Don’t be shy with the dust! Apply it liberally, and then gently wipe away the excess with a lint-free cloth. This leaves behind dust in all the right places, giving the piece an old-world charm.
Step 5: Buffing for a Finished Look
Once everything has been applied, use a damp lint-free cloth to blend and soften the wax and dust, ensuring the finish looks natural. Buff the areas you want to shine, while leaving other areas matte for contrast.
Final Results:
The finished piece should have the perfect mix of aged wood showing through and a metallic glaze shimmering in the highlights. The combination of Better With Age, mica powder glaze, and Dust of Ages provides a rich, dimensional finish that will elevate your wood projects with timeless elegance.
Before & After:
Patricia transformed a simple raw wood finial into a stunning antique-inspired decor piece using these simple steps.
You can achieve this look on any wood surface, from furniture to small decorative accents.
