f you’ve ever admired the rustic, worn, or weathered look of Pottery Barn furniture, you’ll be excited to know that you can achieve this timeless style on your own pieces at home! Using Fusion Mineral Paint, specifically the popular Algonquin shade, along with a few other tools and techniques, you can transform any dresser, table, or other furniture into a beautiful, vintage-inspired masterpiece. Here’s how I achieved this look on a dining table, two dressers and a few other pieces.
Why Fusion Mineral Paint?
Fusion Mineral Paint is a top choice for furniture painters due to its exceptional durability, ease of use, water and UV resistance as well as the stunning range of colors. For this project, I chose Algonquin as the base coat—a warm, neutral tone that perfectly complements the rustic, weathered aesthetic we’re going for.
Materials You’ll Need:
* Fusion Mineral Paint in Algonquin: This will serve as your base coat.
* Fusion Clear Glaze or Fusion Antiquing Glaze: To add depth and texture to your piece.
* Fusion Mineral Paint in Chocolate: Mixed with the glaze to create a faux wood grain effect.
* Fusion Mineral Paint in Raw Silk: For dry brushing and adding highlights.
* Stiff Brush or Broom: To create the faux wood grain.
* Aging Wax or White Wax (Optional): To soften and blend areas for a cohesive finish.
* TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) Cleaner: For prepping your piece.
* Scuff Sanding Pads or Sandpaper: To prepare the surface.
I used this little inexpensive whisk broom from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014GJ159A/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_image?ie=UTF8&th=1
Prep Your Piece
Step 1:
Proper preparation is key to achieving a lasting finish. Start by thoroughly cleaning your piece with TSP to remove any dirt, grease, or residue. This step ensures that the Fusion Mineral Paint adheres perfectly. Next, lightly scuff sand the entire surface. This will create a bit of texture for the paint to grip onto.
Apply Your Base Coat
Step 2:
Now, it’s time to apply the base coat using Fusion Mineral Paint in Algonquin. This color is ideal for achieving that classic Pottery Barn or weathered look. I recommend applying two coats of Algonquin, allowing each coat to dry for 24 hours to ensure a durable, even finish.
Create Depth with Glaze
Step 3:
Once your base coat is fully dry, it’s time to add some depth and texture. Mix Fusion Clear Glaze with a small amount of Fusion Mineral Paint in Chocolate. I typically use a ratio of four parts glaze to one part paint. Apply this glaze mixture over the entire surface, working in sections to ensure even coverage. If you choose you can use Fusion Antiquing Glaze, this is already mixed and you can skip the mixing. This glaze has a lighter tint of brown than Chocolate and I often use it to create a lighter-looking version.
While the glaze is still wet, take a stiff brush or broom and gently pull through the glaze, creating small lines that mimic wood grain. This technique adds a rustic, worn effect that gives your piece that desirable weathered look.
Add Highlights with Dry Brushing
Step4:
After allowing the glaze to dry for 24 hours, it’s time to add some highlights. Using Fusion Mineral Paint in Raw Silk, lightly dry brush over the glazed areas. This step enhances the weathered effect and adds depth to your piece. Dry brushing is a technique where you dip the brush lightly into the paint, then wipe most of it off before applying it to the surface. The goal is to apply a very light, streaky coat that enhances the texture.
Watch this quick little Instagram reel that I made showing the process:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cu4G3hTJ3UR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Does Fusion glaze need to be top-coated?
At this stage, your piece may already look complete. However, if you want to soften any harsh areas or blend the finish more, you can apply Fusion Aging Wax or White Wax. These products help to soften further and blend the look, giving your piece a more cohesive, finished appearance.
For high-use areas or added durability, consider applying a top coat. You can use Fusion’s Clear Wax for a soft, matte finish or Tough Coat for a more durable, long-lasting finish.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Pottery Barn or weathered look with Fusion Mineral Paint is all about layering and technique. By carefully applying Algonquin as a base, using glaze mixed with Chocolate for texture, and dry brushing with Raw Silk, you can achieve a beautifully worn, rustic finish that looks like it came straight out of a designer catalog.
If you’re transforming a dresser, a table, or any other piece, these techniques will help you achieve a stunning, professional-looking result. Feel free to experiment and trust your instincts—every piece is unique, and the beauty of this style is in its imperfections.
If you’re ready to start your project, be sure to visit our online store to stock up on Fusion Mineral Paint, glazes, and all the accessories you’ll need. We offer quick, reliable shipping from Pottsville, PA, or if you find yourself in our local area, stop by and shop with us at AnitaTrinket, 101 S Richmond Street, Fleetwood Pa. We are always here to help with any questions you might have.
You can visit AnitaTrinket on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/anitatrinket or shop online https://anitatrinket.com/ for our beautiful painted furniture and high-end home decor.
You can also visit Fusion Mineral Paint to see another technique to create a Pottery Barn Finish https://fusionmineralpaint.com/pottery-barn-inspired-dupe-ikea-dresser/
Happy Painting
Wendy