How to Create an Italian Pitted Silver Finish
, by Danielle Knip, 3 min reading time
Discover the luxurious art of creating an Italian Pitted Silver Finish using sterling silver leaf in this exclusive tutorial by renowned designer Amy Howard. Perfect for transforming hardware, accent pieces, and more, this distinctive finish adds an unparalleled touch of elegance to any space. Amy's expertise shines through as she shares her techniques for achieving this high-end look, drawing inspiration from her own stunning armoire from the Amy Howard Collection, which features this coveted finish and originally retailed for $15,000. Get ready to elevate your decor and master the art of this timeless finish!
Amy Howard Home Products:
- Clean Slate
- Black - One Step Paint
- Gilding Size
- Sterling Silver Leaf
- Zinc Antiquing Solution
- Antique Mirror Solution
Other Supplies:
- Baby Powder (Optional)
- Natural Cotton Batting
- Steel Wool
- Lint Free Cotton Rag
Step 1: Prep & Apply Base
Begin by preparing your furniture or decor piece with Clean Slate if it's previously stained, painted, or finished. Apply a coat of Amy Howard At Home One Step Paint in Black and allow it to fully dry.
Step 2: Apply Size
Using an artist brush, carefully apply Gilding Size to the areas where you want to apply the silver leaf. Let the size become tacky, typically within 5-6 minutes.
Step 3: Apply Silver Leaf
Gently lay down sections of Sterling Silver Leaf, slightly overlapping each piece. Rub the leaf on using your fingers leaving the tissue on to avoid touching the leaf directly with your fingers. Lightly buff off excess leaf using a brush and steel wool.
Hot Tip: Dust your hands with baby powder to prevent the leaf from sticking.
Step 4: Apply Zinc Solution
Dip natural cotton batting into a cup of Zinc Antiquing Solution and dab it onto the silver leaf, ensuring thorough coverage with two passes. Wear gloves or wash hands after handling the solution.
Step 5: Misting with Antique Mirror Solution
Mix equal parts Antique Mirror Solution and water in a spray bottle. Mist the solution onto your surface for the desired effect. Let it dry overnight, then gently buff with steel wool to refine the appearance.
Step 6: Apply Antiquing Wax
Using a chip brush, apply Light Wax all over. Focus Dark Wax in crevices to enhance depth. Allow it to dry for approximately 30 minutes.
Step 7: Apply Dust Of Ages
Dip a clean brush into the Dust of Ages and lightly tap it onto another brush to distribute a small amount into crevices. Gently buff off excess with a lint-free cotton rag, emphasizing the crevices for an aged look.
Final Reveal!
Check out this Instagram post to see the reveal!
Want to see more stunning transformations? Join the Before and After Facebook Group to see how people just like you are flipping furniture, saving money, and Enjoying the Bragging Rights. You can also follow us on Facebook and get alerts when Amy goes live with her next project!
