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Monday, July 21, 2014

BRIGHTENING UP MUTED GOLD: SPRAY PAINT OR RUB 'N BUFF?


I recently had a few gold-ish pieces that I wanted to brighten up, so I thought I'd share my process with you.  First up, these pinecone lamps.  I've had them for several years and they're still a favorite, but they were starting to seem a little blah...too dark.


I wasn't sure if I wanted to use spray paint, which I knew would give a more solid, uniform look, or Rub 'n Buff (R&B), which would leave some variation in the color.  I started with the R&B, because I could always spray later if it wasn't the look I wanted.

Here's how it turned out:


I did like the little bit of variation, but it wasn't brightening it up as much as I wanted it to.  So, I opted to spray them after all (Rustoleum Metallic Gold).  I've fallen in love with these lamps all over again!



I've also had an eye on my peacock mirror (from Pier One a few years ago) for a while...the gold finish was beginning to seem a bit Old World to me, and I wanted to freshen it up too.  However, I knew on this piece that I did NOT want it to have a flat, solid, spray painted look, and that R&B would be the way to go.


Here's my tip, which I think I shared before with my kitchen chalkboard calendar, but it's worth repeating.  On heavily textured surfaces, I like to use an old toothbrush to apply the R&B.  Just the tiniest amount on the brush will spread over a good area before you need to apply more.


Here you can see the difference in the gold tones (I was using "Gold Leaf" R&B this time):


And here's a sneak peek of it all finished up (and I just noticed looking at the photo a few spots I need to touch up!):


I'll show you all of it a little later when I share my summer tour.


So, it's really a personal preference and depends on the look you're going for as to which is better.  Do you prefer one over the other?

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Would you like to comment?

  1. I'm a RnB lover but the spray paint really brightened up the lamps!

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  2. i like them both depending on the project as well- i have used the spray on a chair and LOVE it! and i like r&b for smaller areas.

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  3. and i totally forgot to tell you how much i am in love with those lamps now, too!

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  4. Both pieces are fabulous and I love both the R&B and spray paint. My favorite is Design Master 24K Pure Gold. You can find it at Joann's and it is absolutely amazing.

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  5. They both look great!! Never thought of using a toothbrush to apply Rub & Buff...what a great idea!

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  6. Those lamps are totally gorgeous! I love rub n buff, but that gold spray paint really brightened them up!

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  7. Those lamps are so pretty! They have such great texture and I really love the way the spray paint brightened them up!

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  8. I love what you did with both Jennifer!!! I think it depends on the piece, and you made an excellent decision for both.

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  9. Well, if you ever decide to give up those lamps give me a call! They look fabulous and I love gold spray paint. Great idea about the toothbrush for the R&B...never thought of it. I have a small mirror to upgrade so will try it. Guess it always depends on the piece and the look you prefer.

    xo
    Pat

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  10. Gorgeous!! And, I really need to order that print!

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  11. Looking great, Jennifer! High end DIY! ;) Love those lamps!!!!

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  12. Those lamps are crazy awesome! Metallic Gold is my favorite spray but I'm going to have to give Rub'n Buff another try! I'm not very good at it :( I love the way it turned out on the mirror.

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  13. Looks so good Jennifer! I love the lamps :) They shine a bit brighter now!

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  14. Jennifer! Those lamps are amazing! Rub and Buff is great for so many projects. Love the way that little tube can transform something. Girl, I wish I had your energy! You're a whirlwind with all your projects! :)

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  15. The lamps look like new, Jennifer! A little spray paint can really breath new life into a "tired" accessory. Can't wait to see your summer home tour :)

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  16. The lamps look amazing and I've always loved your Pier One mirror!
    Shelia @ House of Highlands

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  17. I have that exact lamp in white!.... But it won't be for long!!! I am in LOOOVE with your style and decor!!! You inspire me every time I look at your page!! And I'm always looking at your page :)

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