To build the base for this finish, apply one coat of Windsor One Step Paint over the entire piece. Allow it to dry completely.

To begin softening the surface into the look of faded terracotta, premix A Praying Wife Milk Paint at a 1:1 ratio with water ahead of time so it has a chance to fully incorporate. Apply one coat over the base.

To give the piece its faded clay-terracotta character, mix Loire Earth Milk Paint at a 1:1 ratio with water and apply one coat.

To build the subtle fissures found on aged garden ornament, premix Cracked Gesso the day before at a 1:1 ratio with water. Apply one coat with a soft mop brush, lightly pouncing the brush into any detailed areas of the surface so the gesso works into the contours.

To soften the gesso and give the clay color its chalky, sun-drenched appearance, mix Champagne Yellow Milk Paint at a 1:1 ratio with water and apply it over the Cracked Gesso.

To reveal the layers beneath and create natural variation, pour Antiquing Glaze into one bowl and clean water into a second. Dampen a sea wool sponge with water, then pick up a small amount of Antiquing Glaze. Gently move the sponge over the surface in small areas, rinsing it frequently in the clean water and repeating as you go. On the second pass, small areas of Milk Paint will begin to lift naturally, revealing the layers underneath. Allow the piece to dry thoroughly.

Using a wax brush, apply a thin coat of Light Wax over the entire piece.

Instead of using Dark Wax, mix Mind Your Own Beeswax with Loire Earth Milk Paint. Work this mixture selectively into the cracks, crevices, and areas where natural aging would collect. This highlights the fissures while keeping the warm, pale terracotta palette intact rather than darkening the finish. Allow the wax to dry thoroughly, then buff as desired. Enjoy the bragging rights. You have absolutely earned them.