A step-by-step tutorial on creating a weathered wood look using only paint and wax
As usual on this blog, paint takes center stage. This time it rescued a piece that was a little too glossy and needed a softer, aged appearance.
I picked up this black table at a consignment shop in Charlotte for $160. It had charming legs and a few dings — perfect candidate for a makeover. I wanted the charm of weathered wood without the hassle of stripping, so I used paint and wax to create the look.
The legs were what sold me — they have great shape and detail. Because I wasn’t sure of the wood condition under the finish and didn’t want to strip, I chose a simple painted approach that gives depth and an authentic weathered effect.
Supplies needed for a weathered wood finish:
- Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in Coco (or a similar warm gray-brown chalk paint)
- Dark soft wax (Annie Sloan Dark Soft Wax or any preferred dark wax)
- 1.5″ angled paint brush (ideal for furniture)
- A wax brush to work the wax into grooves and details
- Fine-grit sandpaper for smoothing between coats
I’ve used this simple technique on several projects, and it reliably creates a Restoration Hardware–inspired, weathered wood look without stripping. The basic steps are straightforward: paint, sand lightly between coats, then apply dark wax to add age and depth.
Begin by applying one or two thin coats of the Coco chalk paint, allowing proper drying time between coats. I gave each coat a light sanding after it dried to keep the surface smooth and to help the next coat adhere evenly.
After two coats the finish was even and the color was building nicely. Once the paint was fully dry, I applied the dark wax all over the piece. Dark wax over chalk paint immediately adds an aged patina and highlights carved details and grooves.
I worked in small sections, brushing the dark wax on liberally and using the wax brush to push the wax into crevices and smooth it out. Applying dark wax directly over paint creates stronger contrast than applying a clear wax first, so the result looks naturally aged. Because wax can begin to set, small sections and steady work yield the best, most consistent finish.
After applying and evening out the dark wax across the whole table, I buffed lightly where needed to balance sheen and tone. The finish instantly reads like weathered wood: soft matte paint tone with rich, aged highlights in the details.
This method is quick and far less messy than chemical stripping. It delivers a convincing weathered look that’s perfect for furniture you want to blend with a cozy, layered living space.
My camera wasn’t cooperating, so photos don’t fully show how much depth the finish actually has in person. The dark wax creates subtle variation across flat surfaces and emphasizes carved or turned details — exactly what lends that weathered, Restoration Hardware vibe.
The waxed finish also warms the color and softens the painted surface, giving the table a bit of an antique, well-loved appearance. It now sits behind our couch and helps create a sense of separation between the living area and the kitchen while keeping the open flow of the space.
A few quick tips for the best result:
- Use thin, even coats of chalk paint and sand lightly between coats for a smooth base.
- Apply dark wax generously and work it into details with a wax brush for authentic depth.
- Work in manageable sections so the wax doesn’t set before you can smooth and blend it.
- Buff or remove excess wax in areas you want lighter, and leave more wax in crevices to enhance contrast.
This project was quick, affordable, and completely transformed the look of the table without stripping. If you’re tackling flea market or thrift finds this season, try this painted-and-waxed approach for a reliable weathered wood finish.
PS: I haven’t forgotten about other room updates. Projects are moving forward slowly but surely. If you’d like more DIY tutorials, I’ve shared other room projects and how-tos elsewhere on the site.
Got a furniture makeover in progress this season? I’d love to see your before-and-after photos — there’s so much inspiration in flea market and yard sale transformations.
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