There’s something so timeless about the look of an old, cracked, and layered frame — the kind that feels as if it’s been cherished for generations. With Cracked Gesso, Milk Paint, and Antiquing Glaze, you can easily recreate that authentic, aged finish right at home.
This trio of products works together to create rich texture, depth, and soft patina — mimicking the natural wear and crackle of antique finishes. With just a few simple steps, you can transform a plain frame into a vintage-inspired piece that feels full of history, warmth, and old-world charm.
Products Needed:
Step 1: Prep the Surface
Every great finish begins with preparation. Clean your frame thoroughly with Clean Slate to remove dirt, oils, and residue. Wipe it down carefully and let it dry completely. This gives you a clean canvas to build upon.
Step 2: The Base Layer – Chalk Paint
Apply one coat of Nottaway Chalk Paint. This grounding base color provides richness that will peek through later layers. Use long, even strokes and let the paint dry fully before continuing.
Step 3: Build Texture – Cracked Gesso
Brush on a layer of Cracked Gesso, making sure it’s even. As it dries, the gesso will form natural cracks and texture that mimic the age of history. Allow it to dry thoroughly so the foundation is strong.
Step 4: A Soft Aged Veil – Milk Paint
Apply Strasbourg White Milk Paint over the gesso. The paint will settle into the cracks, creating a soft, timeworn effect. Let this layer dry completely.
Step 5: Depth and Dimension – Antiquing Glaze
Work Antiquing Glaze into the cracks and carved details of the frame. Then gently wipe away the excess with a soft cloth. This tones down the white, brings out the texture, and leaves a subtle patina that feels authentically aged.
Step 6: Add Warmth and Gilded Detail – Gold Leaf
Once your Antiquing Glaze has dried, apply a thin layer of Gilding Size to the areas you’d like to highlight. When it becomes tacky, gently lay Gold Leaf over those sections and press lightly to adhere.
Let it set, then buff and distress the surface with a soft cloth or brush until you achieve your desired level of shimmer and age. This step enhances the old-world elegance of the frame and creates that beautiful, timeworn luster.
Step 7: Subtle Aging – Flyspecking
To mimic the natural spotting that occurs on antique finishes, create a thin wash by diluting Gel Stain with water. Load a small brush with the mixture, then lightly tap or flick the handle to scatter fine specks across the surface.
This technique adds just the right touch of imperfection and authenticity — a nod to the passage of time.
Optional Final Step: Wax Finish
To protect and enhance your finish, seal your frame with a thin coat of Light Antique Wax once it’s available again. Buff gently to achieve a soft sheen, then layer Dark Antique Wax into the crevices and edges to add depth and highlight the details.
The Finished Look
When complete, your frame will have the elegant character of an heirloom piece — one that tells a story through every layer of paint and glaze. It pairs beautifully with artwork, mirrors, or even as a standalone decorative accent.
Tutorial by @openwindowrestore
Wanda Denton
Omg ! I’m 73 years old and have always wanted to try to paint but I believe I can do this it looks so simple I just need all the products! Absolutely cannot wait to get started! Thank you !