So, here’s the before. It’s a terrible picture I know. I really liked everything about this headboard and footboard, well, except for the color. Now, don’t get me wrong, I really adore wooden pieces but I wanted to try a new metallic glaze I found and this set was going to be perfect!

Before I begin divulging all my woodworking secrets, I have to show you what got me so excited. It’s Martha Stewart’s Metallic Mercury Glaze from Lowes!

I really didn’t know what to expect. Figured I’d just have to try it and see for myself.

 The old finish was rather dull. I like dull finishes. Makes for less sanding. However, it has to be done, so, using 220 grit sandpaper (I buy this in bulk), I sanded only enough for a good paint adhesion. After all prep work (and an iced tea refill) I started painting. It took two coats of a soft, creamy white paint for complete coverage. Oh, and I like to use eggshell instead of flat, satin or semi-gloss. After the paint dried, I opened the jar of metallic mercury glaze.

Working in small sections, maybe a foot square, I used a paint brush to apply the glaze. I then took another DRY brush and lightly swept over the wet glaze to remove any excess glaze and the brush marks. I swept up, down, across and horizontally, until it became one with the base paint. Keep your dry brush DRY. If you need to, take paper towels and wipe off any buildup. Move to the next section and continue applying and then dry brushing the glaze. It takes a while to get the feel for glazes but it is worth all the trial and error. Using the dry brush gives it an aged look and lots of character.

After the glaze dried, the edges were lightly distressed to accentuate the curves and add subtle definition.

An unexpected bonus for me was the light-catching sheen from the silvery glaze. I really liked the outcome and am anxious to try the other metallic colors that are available.

Yep, that’s just a box-spring, I snapped the photo before the mattress was in place.