Bring old-world charm and layered elegance to a simple wooden dough bowl with this Pattern Play Finish tutorial featuring Amy Howard at Home products. This textured, multi-dimensional finish blends soft patinas, metallic shimmer, and raised stencil details — transforming an everyday piece into a timeless decorative accent.
This project, beautifully executed by Patricia Skelton of Open Window Restore, demonstrates how layering paints, plasters, and metallics can create a finish that looks collected over time. Whether displayed on a console, coffee table, or kitchen island, this pattern-rich dough bowl adds depth and warmth to your home décor.
✨ Supplies You’ll Need
All products by Amy Howard at Home:
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Better With Age – for a naturally oxidized wood base
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One Step Paint in Indian Summer, Cartouche Green, and Windsor
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Venetian Plaster – for soft raised texture
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Glazed Over – to create your mica glaze
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Clear Wax, Light Wax, Dark Wax
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Natural Bristle Brush, spreader, soft cloth, and 220-grit sandpaper
Step 1: Create the Base
Start with a clean, dry dough bowl. Apply Better With Age evenly across the entire surface. Let the solution react with the tannins in the wood and dry completely. For deeper aging, apply a second coat and allow it to fully oxidize.
This step creates the warm, naturally weathered tone that sets the foundation for the layered patina.
Step 2: Prepare for Stenciling
Open Indian Summer One Step Paint and let it sit uncovered for several minutes to thicken. Position your Peony Pattern Mesh Stencil on the interior of the bowl and use a spreader to apply the paint through the stencil.
Allow to dry completely before proceeding.
This forms the first pattern layer that gives the piece its subtle, timeworn depth.
Step 3: Paint the Edges
Apply Windsor One Step Paint around the outer edges of the bowl. This neutral base will ground the design and provide contrast to the layered stencil work.
Step 4: Add a Shadow Layer
To achieve an aged European plaster look, mix 1 tablespoon of Venetian Plaster with 1 teaspoon of water until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon of Cartouche Green One Step Paint and blend well.
Offset the stencil slightly from the original pattern and apply this mixture with a spreader.
Allow to dry for 30–40 minutes.
The Venetian Plaster adds a raised, tactile dimension — enhancing the depth and artistry of the design.
Step 5: Add Metallic Highlights
Mix together 1 tablespoon Copper Penny Mica Powder, 1 teaspoon Lorie Earth Pigment, and 1 tablespoon Glazed Over™ to create a shimmering copper glaze.
Brush over the edges for a subtle metallic accent, then apply the Peony Pattern Stencil again in select areas for highlights.
This step introduces a soft glow reminiscent of gilded antiques.
Step 6: Wax, Seal, and Soften
Once dry, apply Clear Wax, followed by Dark Wax, allowing proper drying between coats. While the surface is still slightly tacky, brush on a light veil of Party in the Grove Milk Paint for a naturally worn look. Rub in with a soft cotton rag, then lightly sand with 220-grit paper to soften the finish.
This final step blends all the layers beautifully — creating the illusion of history and handcraft.
The Finished Look
The result is a sophisticated, patterned patina that blends earthy pigments, metallic warmth, and chalky texture. Each layer tells a story — a reflection of craftsmanship and creativity. Display your finished dough bowl as a centerpiece, layered tray, or entryway accent to bring a touch of heirloom artistry into your home.
Try This Technique On:
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Picture frames or mirror borders
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Cabinet door insets
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Decorative trays and architectural salvage pieces
Ready to create your own Pattern Play Finish?
Shop all the products used in this project at Amy Howard at Home and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more inspiring finishes every week.
