Paint stripping provides a distressed look for character pieces.
Old pieces of furniture refinished with the shabby chic style creates an old world feel in your home or office. Paint stripping utilizes chemicals, such as glazes and strippers, which are best used in a well ventilated space. If you do not have a piece of furniture on hand for paint stripping, take a trip to your local flea market, second hand store or garage sales to find that one perfect piece for your home.
Lighting
A chandelier will add ambiance to any room it graces. Strip the paint off of the chandelier (sand it or use chemicals) to reveal its original state. To build it back up choose a classic color like silver or gold, or for a modern approach pick a bright color like chartreuse or cerulean blue to add an unexpected pop of color. Either apply the crackle glaze before the new paint or experiment with two colors and use the crackle glaze between colors. Paint stripping combined with glazes will add character to the lighting and make it an instant conversation piece. This type of chandelier works well in a foyer or a bedroom.
Bed Frame
Choose a bed frame with a headboard and a foot board with an interesting shape. Strip the finish off of the entire piece and lightly sand it. The color you choose should act as a complement or a contrast to the existing decor of the room it will live in. One popular choice is a stark shade of white. Once the paint stripping chemicals are applied the white bed frame will achieve a distressed look reminiscent of old days. If you require further distressing, use a light sand paper to scuff up the edges of the headboard or foot board.
Table
Whether you choose to strip old paint from a coffee table, dining table or end table, paint stripping will add visual interest to each piece. For smaller end tables or bedside tables, take some liberty with the color and introduce something bold and unexpected. Green, blue and even red work well for this type of project. After painting the new bold color use sandpaper to distress the edges and detail areas. Once you achieve the right look, add a clear coat of varnish to seal the piece. After all that work making it look old, you don't want it to get scuffed up.
Refinishing
Another idea for old furniture is to strip it of all paint and refinish it with a stain or glaze. Heirlooms can be re-vamped and brought back into your home to sit center stage. One idea is to refinish an old rocking chair. Choose a decorative chair with intricate wood work. Strip the paint with a combination of chemicals, such as lacquer thinner and paint stripper, and gentle sanding. Refinish the chair by oiling it or choose a stain to enhance the woods natural glow. Finish the project with a clear coat of varnish.
