Clean your piece thoroughly with Clean Slate to remove any oils, wax, or residue. Let the surface dry completely before painting.

Using a chip or sponge brush, apply a single, even coat of One Step Paint in Black (or your preferred paint color) to your surface.

One Step Paint offers excellent coverage in one coat. Allow the base coat to dry completely before continuing.

Once the base coat is fully dry, shake Cracked Patina thoroughly. Apply an even layer over the painted surface, working in one direction and avoiding over-brushing to prevent visible brush strokes.

Allow the Cracked Patina to dry for 10–15 minutes, then apply a second coat. Let the surface come to tack. Cracked Patina will remain slightly tacky and does not dry completely.

As the Cracked Patina begins to come to tack, it will naturally start to crack and separate. Using a negative tool, such as a clean brush without paint, gently pull and manipulate the patina to create cracks, crevices, and texture. The more the patina is agitated, the more pronounced the cracked texture will be. Work in small sections and allow the surface to dry once the desired texture is achieved.

Once the Cracked Patina is mostly dry, apply a second coat of One Step Paint. As the paint is applied, it will pull away in some areas and crack in others, revealing the textured layers beneath. This interaction creates the signature cracked texture associated with the Classic Premier Finish. Allow the paint to dry completely.

When the surface is dry, apply painter’s tape to define the areas where you would like to add gilded details. If desired, apply a paint color beneath the tape, as this color will subtly show through the gold leaf. For a traditional look, Charm School One Step Paint may be used as the base color under the gilding.

Apply Gilding Size to the taped areas where gold leaf will be applied. Ensure full and even coverage for proper adhesion. Allow the Gilding Size to dry until it reaches a tacky consistency. Test by lightly tapping the surface with your ring finger. It should feel sticky but not wet.

Carefully apply Gold Leaf over the tacky Gilding Size, pressing gently with a clean brush or cloth to ensure proper adhesion. Once applied, burnish the surface to remove excess leaf and reveal the desired level of texture and shine.

Using a clean brush, apply Light Wax over the entire surface, including the gilded areas, to protect and enrich the finish. For added depth and an aged appearance, apply Dark Wax to corners, crevices, and textured areas. Use steel wool to gently buff and distress the surface. Allow the wax to dry for 20–30 minutes until it reaches a buttery consistency.

Once the wax has dried, gently buff the surface with a clean cloth, taking care not to over-buff. To enhance the antique character, apply Dust of Ages to highlight cracks, details, and texture, adding depth and dimension to the finished piece.