Grey Buffet with Dark Wax Finish
Antonia MarinoTo breathe new life into this exquisite antique buffet, painted with Vintage Paint "Old Linen," I embarked on a meticulous journey of restoration. First, I attended to essential repairs, addressing hinges and locks. I filled in the previous handle holes and added new keyhole (escutcheon) plates. A gentle sanding followed to remove any loose varnish, and the piece was then cleaned with a mild soap and water solution.
Vintage Paint’s self-leveling properties were ideal for minimising brush marks, yet I aimed for a unique, textured finish. To achieve this, I over-brushed the damp paint in a crisscross pattern, giving the piece a subtle, artfully haphazard texture.

For the final touch, I applied a generous layer of Vintage Wax, giving the buffet a warm, inviting luster. A wax brush was used to apply the wax, allowing it to rest overnight before being buffed with a lint-free cloth. At this stage, the piece radiates timeless beauty.
If you wish to deepen the finish and highlight intricate details like the ornate moldings and carvings, I introduced Dark Wax. Using either Voodoo Molly Vintage DARK wax or a mix of Vintage Stain "Ebony" with Vintage CLEAR Wax, I applied the dark wax section by section with a specialised brush to enhance the buffet’s character.
To complete the transformation, I added clear glass knobs, providing a delicate finishing touch. A few new holes were drilled with a cordless drill to fit the knobs seamlessly.
During the curing period, I left the drawers and cupboards ajar, avoiding placing any damp or heavy objects on the surface. This approach allowed the finish to breathe freely, ensuring a lasting testament to the beauty of the past, now expertly revitalised for the present.