Painting / art / color question

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05-24-2010, 06:10 AM

Chay

Senior Member

Thread Starter

Join Date: Aug 2009

Location: Montana

Posts: 372

This is totally off the subject of quilting but I know there are talented artists and painters in this group and I need help. I got sick of seeing bare walls in my house and since buying an original painting isn't in the cards right now I bought a gallery-wrapped canvas print of birch trees. I really like the print. The colors looked quite muted online - soft greens and golds - but when it arrived the colors turned out to be quite ... vivid. Almost fluorescent, kelly green. Is there anything I can use to tone down the colors? I have thought about over-painting it, but with what? I've even thought of using shoe polish to "antique" it. It just needs to be muted a bit. Any ideas? I have Googled this but haven't found any suggestions online. Thanks!

05-24-2010, 08:38 AM

brushandthimble

Super Member

Join Date: Sep 2009

Location: North of Boston, MA, USA

Posts: 3,524

I have used a tinted varnish, sort of gives an antique look to it.
I have also antiqued pieces first then used clear varnish.
PM me if you would like any directions and supply list.
Ann

05-24-2010, 11:58 AM

amma

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Join Date: Jul 2007

Location: Out searching for some sunshine :-)

Posts: 58,856

There is an antiquing liquid that is sold in craft stores in with the little bottles of acrylic paints. I know Plaid makes it and probably AppleBarrel, too. Donna Dewberry uses it to tone down colors/antique in her painting shows.

05-24-2010, 12:01 PM

dsb38327

Super Member

Join Date: Apr 2010

Location: MS

Posts: 3,434

Better you than me! :D I wouldn't know where to start but you have my total support. :thumbup:
Can we see before and after photos? I just love people who are brave and jump right in! :!:

05-24-2010, 04:32 PM

sewgull

Super Member

Join Date: Oct 2009

Location: South Carolina

Posts: 3,155

When using the antiquing liquid apply with a brush,bfoam works fine. Work in an area that is not to large, you don't want the antiquing to dry, rub off before it dries. The longer it stay on the darker it will get. It is better to use lightly, and repeat if necessary. If I can be or more help PM me.

05-24-2010, 05:11 PM

CAROLJ

Super Member

Join Date: Feb 2010

Location: Rancho Mirage, CA

Posts: 1,855

I have used shoe poish to "age" furniturem fabric and repair scratches. Put it on a cloth 1st and try it in a discreet area. Or you might try a strong coffee mix, it would be easier to control. Also you may want to highlite areas that would be darker, such as the corners or around the frame.