This stunning trunk transformation by @brasswalnut proves you don’t need power tools to achieve a designer-worthy finish. With just a few thoughtfully layered products and a bit of elbow grease, this dated orange oak trunk is now a moody, high-end accent piece that brings instant character to any room.
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Step 1: Prep the Surface
Every great finish starts with proper prep. This trunk had a glossy finish, which is why it was important to hand sand with 220-grit sandpaper to dull the sheen and roughen the surface slightly. This quick step improves adhesion without the need for heavy sanding or stripping — it’s a much simpler process than fully removing the old finish.
After sanding, the piece was thoroughly cleaned using Clean Slate to eliminate any lingering residue, oils, or dirt and ensure a smooth, clean base.
Step 2: Mix & Apply the Finish
Rather than painting first and glazing later, @brasswalnut combined One Step Paint in Black with Glazed Over to create a custom tinted glaze. This mixture was brushed onto the entire trunk and then gently wiped back in areas to allow the wood grain to subtly show through. The result is a soft, layered finish that adds beautiful depth and movement without overpowering the piece.
Step 3: Seal with a Matte Finish
To lock in the finish and protect the surface, Matte Sealer was applied using long, smooth strokes. For best results, she recommends working in small sections and lightly misting with water to thin out the sealer and ensure an even, streak-free application. Matte topcoats are typically the easiest to work with, especially for brush-on projects like this.
This no-power-tool project is proof that anyone can take an outdated trunk and give it a modern, curated finish using just a few quality products and an artistic eye. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned DIYer, this method is approachable, elegant, and endlessly customizable. Check out this quick tutorial here!
