When it comes to updating a dated furniture piece, sometimes the simplest approach creates the most stunning results. Our friend Brass Walnut recently transformed this oak hutch into a sophisticated showpiece using just a few key products—including our Cerusing Wax, the star of this project.
This project is the perfect example of how even beginners can refinish furniture without fully stripping or sanding down to bare wood. Instead of hours of heavy prep, Brass Walnut kept things simple, letting the natural wood grain shine through while adding depth and character with Cerusing Wax.
Why Choose Cerusing Wax?
Cerusing Wax is a specialty finishing wax that protects your furniture while highlighting the wood’s natural texture with a soft, whitewashed sheen. It’s ideal for oak or textured woods, where the grain can peek through the paint. Not only does it protect your finish, but it also creates that timeless, well-worn look of an antique—without the years of waiting.
Step-by-Step: Brass Walnut’s Hutch Makeover
Step 1: Prep the Surface
Brass Walnut started by cleaning the hutch thoroughly with Clean Slate, ensuring that dirt, oils, and residue were removed. A quick hand sanding helped smooth out minor imperfections and knock down any failing finish.
Step 2: Paint a Thin Coat
Instead of applying multiple coats, she brushed on a thin coat of One Step Paint in Hugo Grey. The goal was to keep the paint translucent enough to let the oak grain peek through, creating visual depth and texture.
Step 3: Apply Cerusing Wax
Once the paint dried, she brushed on Cerusing Wax, working it into the painted wood to highlight the grain. This step added instant dimension and sealed the surface, leaving behind a soft, whitewashed patina.
Step 4: Buff to Perfection
A quick buff with a lint-free cloth finished the piece, revealing a smooth, satin-like finish that balances modern simplicity with vintage charm.
The Results
The once-basic hutch is now an elevated display piece that feels both classic and fresh. By keeping the design simple, the styling and décor placed inside the hutch truly take center stage.
As Brass Walnut shared:
“I’m always looking for ways to show those without refinishing experience how to easily update a piece of furniture, and this is a great option.”
This project proves that anyone can achieve a designer look with just a few products and the right finishing wax.
Get the Look
To recreate this transformation at home, you’ll need:
✨ Whether you’re updating a hutch, dresser, or side table, Cerusing Wax is the key to creating depth, dimension, and that beautiful antique-inspired finish.
