To ensure every layer of this finish adheres properly, clean the piece with Clean Slate. If the surface is damaged, as it was on this project, remove the existing finish completely and sand with 220 grit sandpaper, then clean again with Clean Slate. 

If the surface is already in good condition, One Step Paint can be applied directly and you can move on to the milk paint layers.

To create a cohesive foundation beneath the painted layers, stain the piece with English Walnut Gel Stain.

To build the timeworn texture that defines this finish, mix Cracked Gesso with water at a 1:1 ratio and apply the first layer. Allow it to dry overnight.

To begin layering color over the gessoed surface, mix Pompeii Grey and Scandinavian Grey Milk Paint at a 3:2 ratio, then thin the mixture 1:1 with water. Apply one layer and allow it to dry for at least 6 hours, or until dry to the touch.

To deepen the color, mix Scandinavian Grey Milk Paint 1:1 with water and apply a second layer. Allow it to dry for a minimum of 6 hours.

To add depth and shadow to the finish, mix Noir and Scandinavian Grey Milk Paint at a 4:1 ratio, then thin 1:1 with water. Apply the third layer and allow it to dry completely.

Using a sea wool sponge, soften and distress the surface with Antiquing Glaze. For areas where you want to reveal a smoother, more worn surface, steel wool or a razor blade can be used to carefully pull back the finish.

Once the piece is dried and patinated to your desired level, apply Gilding Size with an artist brush to the carved and raised details. Wait about 20 minutes for the size to come to tack, then apply Gold Leaf. Smooth out the leaf and allow it to dry for 6 to 8 hours. Use a clean, unused chip brush to remove any excess leaf.

With a chip brush, lightly apply Light Wax over the finished surface.

Once the Light Wax has come to tack, lightly apply Dark Wax with a chip brush to deepen the aged character of the piece.

Once the Dark Wax has come to tack, use Dust of Ages in crevices and corners, or to tone down the gold leaf as desired.

Using a lint-free rag, buff the entire piece to your desired sheen. 

Enjoy the bragging rights. You have absolutely earned them.