Expert: Eileen Cronk - 8/25/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have some very large pieces of bedroom furniture that have the venitian plaster crackle paint finish in a cream color.  I would like to make the finish a color that matches some stained red mahogany pieces I have.  How can I easily just cover the crackle finish.  I don't mind if the crackle rough finish texture is there.  My goal is to make it "red mahogany"!  Is that possible?

ANSWER: Hi Nita
Nice to hear from you.
The only way to achieve this color is with paint.
A very easy job but make sure you lightly sand the surface first.
Great project.
Regards
Eileen

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I could not find a paint color that would match.  I had an old armoir door finished with the same crackle style and I tried some Mahogany gel stain on it with a stain brush.  To my amazement, it looks fantastic!  My only question is...will the finish fall off!!!  Thanks so very much for your help!

Nita

Answer
Hi again Nita
No, the finish will not fall off when you do this.
Just make sure you clean the pieces before applying the stain.
I would wipe down all surfaces with mineral spirits and a rag.
That should be all thats needed.
Great idea.
Regards
Eileen