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Faux-Metal Finishes

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-613 -- More Projects »
PHOTO
Artist Chris Mobley shows how to use aluminum foil and shoe polish to create a faux-metal look on porcelain, wood and plaster surfaces (see photo at right).

Materials:

sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil
spray adhesive
object of choice to be treated (examples are a vase, bowl or picture frame)
magic marker
steel wool
shoe polish
glass paint in color(s) of choice (optional)

Steps:

  1. Wad up several pieces of aluminum foil so that they have many wrinkles. Unfold them and lay out flat.

  2. Spray the non-shiny side with spray adhesive and allow to sit for 60 seconds.
PHOTO

Figure A
  • Press the sheet on the object so that it adheres completely (figure A). Use as many aluminum foil pieces as it takes to completely cover the object.

  • Use a magic marker or large, round pen (anything with a smooth edge) to further adhere and smooth the foil to the surface.

  • Buff with steel wool to reduce the shine.
    • PHOTO

    Figure B
  • Rub with shoe polish to give the object an antiqued look (figure B). The more shoe polish that is applied, the darker the object will be.

  • When dry, go back over with steel wool and remove some of the shoe polish to finish the look. Embellish with glass paint.

  • When dry, buff again with steel wool.
    • Also in this Episode
    Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-613
    •Faux-Metal Finishes
    •Mopping Techniques
    •Bread Maker Uses
    •Smart Solution of the Day
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