How To Use Saltwash - A Paint Additive That Creates a Unique Textured Look

Saltwash is an easy to use, base coat formula , that can be mixed with ANY brand or type, of paint. This video will show you how to properly mix and apply the product in a few easy steps. The Saltwash formula and technique, can be applied to anything paintable. Wood, metal, and any other surface that accepts paint, can be Saltwashed. Today, we will demonstrate on this vintage claw-foot buffet.

Step One:
First, mix the Saltwash using the included 2 oz scoop to the paint of your choice. In a typical application, you will mix about 20-25 oz of Saltwash, per quart of paint.

Any type and brand of paint can be used, from an inexpensive eggshell , to a high dollar gloss, paint and primer mix, acrylic, latex, oil, or even mixed with a specialty type, such as any chalk paints.

It is important to note that the Saltwash formula itself, has no color. Your base coat paint will retain its exact color, even after mixing in the Saltwash product.

For best results, you want the Saltwash mixture consistency comparable to a thick cake batter.

Once your Saltwash is mixed to the correct consistency, you can begin to apply it to your piece of furniture, using a glob-like technique. The application of this step, should leave thick, tall peaks.

As the Saltwash begins to dry, and becomes slightly tacky to touch, you will want to lightly smooth out the peaks in a gentle, back and forth, or side to side motion.

The strokes should only knock down the heavy peaks, leaving it slightly smoother, and a only a little more evenly-leveled. This step helps to provide the weathered, layered texture look - you want to retain some of the non-uniform coating of the base application.

If the Saltwash layer has become too dry to smooth down the peaks, simply add a little water to your brush and easily re-smooth.

And you can always re-apply more of the Saltwash basecoat, to add more texture.

Step Two:

Once your Saltwash layer is completely dry you will
apply your top coat of paint. This layer will have NO SaltWash added, and again, can be any paint of your choice.

Reapply the top coat of paint as desired.

Step Three:

Once your top coat of paint is completely dry, apply
a light sanding.

This will reveal the Saltwash base coat and give it the beautiful, multi-layered and years aged, “salty coast", look and feel you want!

Feel free to try combining various colors and experimenting with multiple layers and paint types, to create your own unique Saltwash style!

If you want to see what creative ideas others are doing with Saltwash, please visit our website and Facebook page!