A Done with That® Project by Koper, America’s #1 Connected ContractorTM, Free Augmented Article©
Liming simulates the look of weathered wood by giving the appearance of a painted surface that has become worn. Liming is usually performed with a thinned white paint, but you can also use colored paints.
Liming is an attractive way to finish wood for a rustic informal look, and it is a quick and easy alternative to painting or staining. With this technique, a thin layer of white or pastel paint is applied to the unfinished wood, then quickly wiped off before it dries.
The bits of color that remain in the wood grain and in any decorative carving add highlights and interest to the piece.
Liming works best on open grained woods such as oak, ash or chestnut. While the technique is simple, it requires patience and a steady hand. Practice first on a scrap piece of wood of the same kind and grade as the piece you will be liming. This allows you to test both the paint and the finish you have selected. You can evaluate the overall effect and adjust the paint or finishing material before you start the actual work.
The easiest material to use is ordinary interior household paint, slightly thinned with an appropriate solvent. Thinner paint generally gives a more transparent effect. Alkyd paints, like artists’ oil paints, require a solvent such as mineral spirits or turpentine. Acrylic or latex paints can be thinned with water. These paints generally dry quickly, however, and may be difficult to use on large or complex pieces.
For safety, always read the precautions on the labels for the paint and thinner or solvent you have chosen. Follow the manufacturer’s mixing instructions and store or properly dispose of all materials, including wiping cloths or rags. Always work in a well-ventilated area.
A clear polyurethane or water- based varnish protects a limed finish. Polyurethane is unlikely to darken on the wood and is easy to apply. Avoid using polyurethane on furniture previously finished with shellac. If any shellac remains, it may cause the new finish to become cloudy. In this case, a water-based varnish may be used.
KEYS TO SUCCESS
Thoroughly vacuum and dust your work area before you start liming.
Check the paint label and always use the correct thinner for the paint you have selected.
Remove and clean all hinges, handles or other hardware before applying paint to the wood.
Work the brush or cloth in the direction of the wood grain with smooth, even strokes.
Keep the temperature in your work area at 70 degrees or above. This helps paint and varnish flow more smoothly.
Tips
• Turn the piece as necessary so that you always work on a horizon¬tal surface. This prevents drip marks from marring your work
• To correct too shiny a finish, lightly rub the dried surface with pumice or a fine rubbing com¬pound. Rub with the grain using a soft cloth or felt pad
• Be sure your work area is clean to avoid dust marring the surface of the finish.
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