Glaze Effects

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

If General Finishes Glaze Effects are applied over a fresh coat of product, such as General Finishes High Performance Topcoat, sanding is optional.

If Glaze Effects are applied directly over an older existing finish, prep cleaning and sanding are required to remove dirt, grime and potential contaminants.

Step 2: How To Apply General Finishes Glaze Effects

General Finishes Glaze Effects Application Steps

For more control of depth and placement of glaze color, apply Glaze Effects over 1 coat General Finishes High Performance Topcoat, any sheen.

Stir Glaze Effects to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the can before and throughout the application process.
Thin as desired with distilled water; start with 5%, increase up to 10% by volume.
Increase open time, if needed, with up to 5% General Finishes Extender if allowed by local regulations. GF Extender will improve flow and leveling and increase open time, which is helpful in dry climates. California Residents: Adding more than 2% of GF Extender will make the products non-compliant per SCAQMD Regulations. GF assumes no liability for the improper use of these products.
If a lighter color is desired, dilute with General Finishes Glaze Effects Clear Base.
Apply 1+ coats:
- Hand application: Apply using a synthetic bristle brush, foam brush, paint pad applicator or roller. Wipe away excess Glaze Effects with an absorbent paper or shop towel.
- Spray application: Spray wet films at 3-5-mil thickness. HVLP: 1.3mm-2.0mm spray tip, medium air cap. Check with equipment supplier for proper tip sizes. See our general guide for spray tip sizes. Wear NIOSH-approved respiratory & eye protection. Read here for more information on spraying techniques.
Dry 3+ hours between coats and before topcoat in ideal conditions: 70°F/20°C; 50-70% humidity. Be sure to allow adequate dry time. You can tell if a water-based finish is dry if it forms a powder when lightly sanded with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad. If in doubt, wait longer. Rushing dry time can cause clouding/blush in topcoat due to moisture trapped between coats. Increase dry time if:
- Humidity is over 80%
- A thick coat is applied
- 3+ coats are applied (not recommended)
- Applying over an existing sealed finish
- Applying over products from other brands
- Layering General Finishes water- and oil-based products:
  - Water over oil: Let oil-based products dry 72+hr before applying water-based products
  - Oil over water: Let water-based products dry 24+hr before applying oil-based products
If a smoother texture is desired, carefully finish sand between coats with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad to improve smoothness and adhesion.
Remove dust with a vacuum, compressed air, an oil-free tack cloth or a water-dampened rag.
Always seal Glaze Effects with 2-3 coats of topcoat to seal in the colorants.

Cure Time
Water-based finishes cure and harden for full use after 21 days in ideal conditions. Avoid placing heavy objects on surfaces that have not completely cured. Treat gently, and do not clean with commercial products during the curing period.

Warning: Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.

Step 3: Topcoat over Glaze Effects

ALWAYS seal General Finishes Glaze Effects with 3 coats of clear topcoat, e.g. General Finishes High Performance Topcoat. Apply a total of 3+ coats of topcoat altogether. If 1 coat of topcoat is applied before Glaze Effects, add at least 2 more coats over the glaze to seal in the color.

Topcoat Recommendations

Low- to High-Wear Surfaces: High Performance Topcoat (brush or spray), General Finishes Enduro Clear Poly (spray only)
Low- to Medium-Wear Surfaces: General Finishes Flat Out Flat Topcoat (brush or spray)

Cleanup of Water Based Products

Application tools and materials containing water-based products can be cleaned with soap and water immediately after use.

Product Spills
Spills may be able to be removed from fabric and carpet if cleaned immediately with soap and water.

Storage of Water Based Products

Please be mindful of the manner in which water-based products are stored and how long they have been in storage. They not a forever product.

Life of Product
Water-based products do not last forever, even when unopened. General Finishes products are best used within 1 year. However, the life of the product may be extended several more years with proper care and storage (see Storage Tips below).

Water-based products can last 3-5 years if the can is unopened, in good condition and stored in correct temperatures.

Product that is 3 years old will not look like product that is 6 months to 1 year old. You will see more stratification or separation as the product ages. Always stir thoroughly before using.

Foul Smell
If your product has a foul smell, it is contaminated and no longer in useable condition.

Clumps & Settling
Gravity can cause some solids to settle on the bottom of the can and slight separation on the top. This is normal. If working with older product stir with a paint mixing attachment on a drill.

If the solids dissolve and clumps smooth out after mixing from the bottom, the product is in good condition for use.

Inability to reincorporate large, chunky lumps after stirring for several minutes is an indication that the product has frozen and can no longer be used.

Storage Tips
See video tutorial: Tips on Storing Leftover Finishes
Water-based finishes crystalize and form a skin due to evaporation when the air-tight seal on a can is broken at first use. The following best practices will increase the life of your product:

Pry open sealed lids with a paint can opener by hooking under the lid's rolled edge. The use of a screwdriver can disfigure the rim and lid, impairing a complete seal.
Keep lid closed while working. Pour what you will use into a bowl, paper cup, or plate, and close can lid as you work.
Clean the chime of the can thoroughly with a paper towel before closing to create a complete seal. Product falling into the chime can be minimized by using a pouring lid, such as Fitsall. Avoid wiping used brushes on the lid.
Pound the lid in place using a rubber mallet to avoid distorting the chime or lid. Dents in the lid from direct contact with a hammer can impair a complete seal. Alternatively, place a flat piece of wood over can lid and firmly pound shut.
Store in moderate temperatures. Avoid temperatures below 50°F/10°C or above 100°F/26°C. Keep from freezing. Frozen and heat-damaged product cannot be revitalized. Temperature-controlled spaces, such as a basement, are ideal for storage. Do not store product in an attic, garage, in direct sunlight, or next to something warm like a water heater or furnace.
Store can upside down to create a liquid seal, minimize evaporation and reduce the chance of crystallization. Decant remaining product from the can before stirring.
Decant leftovers to a smaller container when the finish is almost used up. Alternative storage containers for water-based products are plastic FIFO bottles or glass bottles. Do not fill metal-lidded containers completely to prevent them from rusting.

The following water-based product mixtures can be stored:

Product thinned with up to 15% General Finishes Extender or General Finishes Accelerator can be stored, with the exception of thinned General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain.
Mixtures involving colors & sheens within the same product line, such as:
- High Performance Satin + High Performance Gloss
- Snow White Milk Paint + Coastal Blue Milk Paint
- Amber Dye Stain + Merlot Dye Stain

The following product mixtures should NOT be stored:

Any water based product with thinned tap water; water often contains bacteria that will adversely affect stored paint.
Topcoat + Stain or Paint
Milk Paint + Chalk Style Paint
Water Based Wood Stain + Dye Stain

Creative Techniques Using Glaze Effects

Creating Custom Colors

You can design your own custom glazes, stains, washes and varnishes with General Finishes intermixable water-based products. See tips and recipes below:

For the mixes listed below, General Finishes recommends the following two steps:

Applying a base layer of General Finishes High Performance Topcoat before applying your custom glaze.
Protect all of these finishes with 2-3 coats of topcoat when you are finished.

Pastel Glaze/Whitewash:

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Milk Paint: Your choice of colors
General Finishes Glaze Effects: Winter White OR General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain: Whitewash

Do not add more than 50% paint to the glaze or stain, or else there will be so much pigment it will be difficult to wipe away the finish.

Custom Glaze:

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Glaze Effects: Your choice of colors

SAMPLE MIX:

Pitch Black Glaze Effects + Winter White Glaze Effects.

Experiment with proportions and colors.

Custom Stain Colors:

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Milk Paint: Your choice of color
General Finishes Glaze Effects: Clear Base OR General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural

SAMPLE MIXES:

1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Pre-Stain Natural [50:50 mix] OR
1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Glaze Effects Clear Base [50:50 mix] OR
1 part Milk Paint + 2 parts Water Based Wood Stain Natural [1:2 mix]

Proportions are relative to the color you are reducing. Some colors may require 2 parts Clear Base to reduce strength, others may require 1.

Begin with a 50:50 mix, and add more Clear Base as needed.

Increase your color palette by mixing 2 or 3 Milk Paint colors together before adding the Clear Base.

Milk Paint & Glaze Effects Samples

Furniture Care and Maintenance

Cure First
You have just finished applying a fine furniture finish. Treat gently until the paint or topcoat have fully cured. Allow 21 days for a water-based finish to cure and 30 days for an oil-based finish to cure before cleaning.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Remove dust with a water-dampened cloth. Dust can build up over time and may scratch or dull finishes if not removed regularly.
Remove fingerprints, cooking fumes and smoking residue with mild soap and water. These contaminants will not harm the finish, but they accumulate on surfaces and dull the original luster.
As with all fine furniture finishes, avoid using furniture polish, cleaners or dusting sprays that contain silicone, alcohol, ammonia and anything acidic. Exception: We have successfully cleaned with Clorox wipes for occasional cleanups.
Clean up water, alcohol and food spills in a timely manner and use placemats & coasters to protect the finish.
Future finishes or touch-ups may not adhere properly or perform as desired over a contaminated surface. Some contaminants, such as silicone, seep through finish into the wood and often cannot be removed.
Avoid excessive exposure to direct sunlight, high temperatures or high humidity. These can damage furniture and finishes.

Warnings and Warranties

Glaze Effects Warnings and Warranties

Compatibility
Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.

Limited Warranty
General Finishes products must be tested to your complete satisfaction before using. General Finishes will not be responsible for color satisfaction, misapplication, nor compatibility with other manufacturer's products. General Finishes will be responsible only for the cost of our products, and not for costs such as labor, damage or project replacement.

Contamination and Compatibility
Our finishes are engineered as a system and are compatible with each other. General Finishes cannot guarantee an ideal refinish when applying our products on top of or combined with another company's products or over surfaces that have been in contact with waxes, polishes or sprays containing contaminants such as silicone. Test for adherence and aesthetics before beginning.

FIRST AID: Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur due to the following. EYE CONTACT: Remove any contact lenses. Flush eyes with water for 20+ minutes while lifting upper and lower eyelids. SKIN CONTACT: Wash thoroughly after handling. INHALATION: Move to fresh air and loosen clothing. If not breathing, if breathing is irregular or if respiratory arrest occurs, provide artificial respiration or oxygen by trained personnel. INGESTION: Call physician immediately. Wash out mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

Prop 65 WARNING:

Burnt Umber:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Pitch Black:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, Carbon black, respirable powder, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Van Dyke Brown:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Winter White:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, Titanium dioxide, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

CAUTION: MAY CAUSE EYE IRRITATION.
Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Wash thoroughly after handling.

Colors

Glaze Effects Colors

Specifications

Basic Features
Product Colors	Van Dyke Brown, Pitch Black, Winter White, Burnt Umber, Smokey Gray
Base Type	Water
Interior or Exterior	Interior
Type	Glaze
Application
Coats	1+ coats
Application Method	Brush, Spray
Brushable	Yes
Usable over existing finishes	Yes
Sprayable	Yes
Spray Tip Sizes	HVLP 1.3mm-2.0mm
Topcoat Required	Yes
Dry Time
Dry Time - Touch	1+ hr
Dry Time - Recoat	3+ hr
Contents
Can Sizes	Pints, Quarts, Gallons
Coverage	60-80 sq.ft./pint, 120-160 sq.ft./quart, 480-640 sq.ft./gallon
Technical Data
Viscosity	Medium
Weight Solids	22%
VOC	US VOC Burnt Umber: <293.554 g/L Pitch Black: <303.733 g/L Smokey Gray: <268.553 g/L Van Dyke Brown: <274.496 g/L Winter White: <273.767 g/L

Design Center

Bold and Gold Buffet

Another one of Grandpa’s pieces that no one wanted. (Insert sad face.) He had started the process and just needed some help to get this beauty back to her glory. She was in pieces, with the mirror and doors detached, and just hoping everything was there. It was! Multiple layers of rich color make this antique beauty come to life! A base coat of GF Lamp Black peaks out from under two layers of GF Somerset Gold, showing off each curve and carved details on the drawers and doors of...

Beautiful Hutch in Persian Blue & Van Dyke Brown

"This beautiful hutch got a new coat with General Finishes Persian Blue Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown glazing. Sealed and protected with HTPC Satin. She's the perfect touch of class and beauty to bring a little color into your home." - Blu Soul Design

Glazed Antique White Laundry Room Cabinets

Loving this amazing laundry room upgrade from Rustic Charm Creations, our June 2016 Retailer of the Month! "We transformed this plain non-functional laundry room into a dreamy laundry/mudroom. The custom solid wood cabinets were handcrafted to fit perfectly in the client's space. We painted the cabinets in General Finishes Antique White Milk Paint using a professional-grade airless paint sprayer. I added some rustic charm by glazing the cabinets and highlighting the lines of the...

Milk Paint Barn Wood Flag

"I was commissioned to make this very large barn wood American flag. It was such an honor making it, especially with everything going on in our country at the moment. I used 100% General Finishes products in Coastal Blue, Snow White, and Holiday Red Milk Paints, and both Pitch Black and Van Dyke Brown Glaze. I should acknowledge that General Finishes products are made here in the United States." - Vintage Soul Barn

Get The Look: Buttermilk Yellow Milk Paint with Burnt Umber Glaze Effects

Go for the gold with this look! Try Buttermilk Yellow Milk Paint accented with Burnt Umber Glaze Effects. Learn how to apply Glaze Effects in this tutorial! http://bit.ly/1u8ZgYV

Driftwood Deco Buffet

Awesome before and after from Team Sutton Designs_! After sanding off all the chipping paint, we a laid down 2 coats of General Finishes Enduro Sanding Sealer. I did this because no matter how much sanding we did, some areas where the veneer was removed was still rough and rugged. We essentially had to build a layer of sanding sealer to make a level surface for the paint. After the sealer had dried, I sprayed on 3 coats of General Finishes Milk Paint in Driftwood." I went over the detail...

"Metallic" Dresser

"Check out my take on a metal looking finish. This was done using Driftwood Milk Paint, Argentine Pearl Effects, Pitch Black Glaze, High Performance Topcoat and Antique Oak stain all by General Finishes. I removed the bottom of the dresser to get rid of the curved wood and give it a cleaner look then added hairpin legs."

Persian Blue Farmhouse Secretary

This vintage secretary desk was in rough shape when we rescued her. She was brought back to life with a major cleaning, sanding, and more cleaning and more sanding. She boasts a combination finish using General Finishes Milk Paint in Persian Blue, and General Finishes Gel Stain in Gray. She is sealed up for protection using General Finishes HPTC in Satin. New Hardware graces her exterior drawers, and a fresh glass panel has been inlaid to her cabinet door. Interior panels and shelves have...

Persian Blue Vanity

"I bought this fabric specifically to use with this color because I knew I wanted to use it on a vanity...it's such a calming blue! ...So far I have painted a pair of nightstands and this vanity/bench/mirror, and have only used half of a pint! Easy two coat coverage and goes on so smooth! This is a go-to blue for me!" -Jessie The Primitive Attic used General Finishes Persian Blue Milk Paint to accent this lovely vanity along with an Ivory chalk paint glazed with GF's Van Dyke Brown Glaze...

Antique White and Van Dyke Brown Christmas Trees

Aren't these adorable!? These were constructed by Recreated Creations Furniture of Syracuse, UT. Recreated Creations Furniture says, "I thought I'd share these Christmas trees I made out of pieces of frames and moulding. Then I painted them with Antique White and glazed them with Van Dyke Brown."

Patina and Van Dyke Brown Nightstand

Jana from Repurposed from the Heart restyled this nightstand with General Finishes Patina Green Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects.

Pitch Black Glazed Holiday Red Nightstand

Absolutely stunning nightstand in General Finishes Holiday Red and Pitch Black Glaze Effect by Odds and Ends.

Van Dyke Brown Glazed Masterpiece

What a masterpiece! Diane at The Paint Factory upcycled this art-inspired dresser with our Van Dyke Brown Glaze over ASCP. We suggest our Tuscan Red Milk Paint to recreate the look!

Luggage Chest of Drawers

Susan Davis of Meme's Ewenique Boutique restyle this chest of drawers with General Finishes Black Pepper and Bayberry Green Chalk Style Paints as well as Sunglow and Snow White Milk Paints. It was aslo accented with GF Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. So creative!

Driftwood Gray Beauty

From Chrissie's Collection

Desk in Driftwood Milk Paint and Winter White Glaze Effects

The Tattered Princess refinished this lovely desk using General Finishes Driftwood Milk Paint topped with Winter White Glaze Effects.

Basil and Walnut End Table Restyle

Pair of end tables showcasing the amazing brand that is General Finishes! They are rustic yet feminine and painted in Basil with walnut glaze. Wood tops are stained in Antique Walnut Gel Stain and will last a lifetime with High Performance Top Coat. I cannot say enough about the ease of application and product quality of General Finishes. Made in America! Bon Chic Refurbishments loves ya baby! ~These sweet Basil side tables were shared by Bon Chic Refurbishments!

Glazed Driftwood Dresser

"This has been refinished in General Finishes Driftwood Milk Paint, glazed with their Pitch Black Glaze, and sealed in their High Performance Topcoat. Silver gilding wax has also been added to the edges for an extra pop." - Re-Luv'd Furniture

Dresser Decked in Somerset Gold & Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects

The Distressed Gentleman completed this dresser with GF Somerset Gold Milk Paint with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. Learn how to properly glaze with General Finishes Glaze Effects at https://youtu.be/3jifX-ZCHDI.

Halcyon Blue Coffee Bar

"My mom came to visit me a couple weeks ago and told me she needed a coffee bar, so of course we went to my basement and “shopped” through my inventory. Can you believe this used to be a changing table?! Ironically enough probably from around the time I was born! The top was sanded bare and stained with Espresso Water Based Stain from General Finishes, then sealed with an oil based poly for extra protection in the kitchen. The bottom was painted in layers starting with Snow White, followed...

Glazed Antique White Bed Frame

"This beautiful full size bed was painted in General Finishes Antique White Milk paint. Antiqued by using General Finishes Van Dyke brown glaze & sealed with their Flat Out Flat." Find your favorite GF products at Rockler, Wood Essence, Klingspor, Amazon, or Lee Valley in Canada. NOTE: Woodcraft stores carry all of GF’s retail and professional line EXCEPT Chalk Style Paint. You can also use your zip code to find a retailer near you at ...

Gorgeous Glazed Gray Nightstand

Great nightstand painted Queenstown Grey then glazed with Pitch Black, then glazed with Winter White. We then topped with High Performance Flat (topcoat)!!! We at [email protected] can't paint enough with this amazing product!!! ~This gorgeous antiqued nightstand was shared by Nick of Restoration at Studios on Sheridan!

Brick Red Wash Stand

"I've got a big ole crush on this washstand ❤️❤️. You can't go wrong with Brick Red and Van Dyke Brown Glaze by General Finishes. It is the perfect combination!" - Seitz Antiques & Collectibles

Seagull and Pitch Black Glazed Table

"I'm loving how this piece turned out. Used GF Seagull Gray MilkPpaint and glazed with GF Pitch Black. And topped off with GF HPTC." - Courtney Worn and Reborn Home Furnishings

Restoration Hardware Inspired Table

Check out this "Restoration Hardware Inspired Pedestal Table Makeover" from High Style Restyle! The top was stained with GF Java Gel Stain. The base got it's new look with GF Antique White Milk Paint and topped with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. See all the details of this project at http://www.highstylerestyle.com/blog/restoration-hardware-knockoff-pedes...

Custom Gray Milk Paint Hutch

Reclaim & Relove created a custom mix of GF Linen and Driftwood Milk Paint on the body of this gorgeous hutch. Snow White Milk Paint was used inside and the details were accented with Winter White Glaze Effects.

Get The Look: Custom Mix: Antique Cherry & Amber Wood Stain accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze

Driftwood Secretary

Quite the transformation from Second Grace Vintage! Jeanine of Second Grace Vintage says, "This classic piece has been given a breath of new life. The mahogany stain was drab and boring so I decided to go outside of my chalk paint comfort zone and try something new...General Finishes Milk Paint. The color is called Driftwood and it's a gorgeous dark greige. The inside is painted Antique White. I wanted this to look old and vintage so I glazed the entire piece with General Finishes VanDyke Brown...

Kitchen Makeover in Snow White Milk Paint topped with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects

Chantel Lynn Barber of Chantel's Originals used General Finishes Milk Paint in Snow White and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects to completely transform her kitchen cabinets and brighten up her kitchen. Great job, Chantel!

Cornflower Blue Dresser

This beautiful dresser was painted with several products from ...

Faux Barn Wood Cabinet

"This solid wood bookshelf has been painted and then lightly sanded to create this faux barn wood look. Using General Finishes products I started with Seagull Gray, followed with a color wash of Driftwood, and finished with a dry brushing of brown glaze. Wire panel doors and new hardware complete this amazing transformation!" - Nap Time Creations

Basil and Winter White Glazed Side Tables

These lovely side tables were refinished with Basil Milk Paint, Winter White Glaze Effects and flat High Performance Topcoat.

Winter White Glazed Antique Pie Safe

Antique pie safe glazed in GF Winter White Glaze Effects by The Rustic Seahorse. Love this look! Watch this video to learn more about glazing with GF Glaze Effects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iqo0wN3B0-E

Linen and Van Dyke Brown Chippy Vanity

The Distressed Gentleman_ of Bristol, VA refinished this stunning vanity with GF Linen Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects.

Antique White and Van Dyke Brown Chalkboard

Kamie of The French Door shared this charming chalkboard restyle using Antique White Milk Paint, Van Dyke Brown Glaze, and High Performance Topcoat in Satin. Kamie says, "Van Dyke Brown is my all time favorite glaze!!" Thanks for sharing!

Glazed Buffet

The Paint Factory highlighted the beauty of this buffet with General Finishes Clear, Van Dyke Brown, Burnt Umber and Yellow Ochre Glaze Effects.

Dreamy Peacock Dresser

General Finishes Design Challeng Winner 2017›Upcycling›Mad Scientist "Create a New Color" (Popular Vote)›1st Place "This piece was finished completely with General Finishes products and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the results! The dresser was painted using a custom blend of Milk Paints in Patina Green, Emerald, Coastal Blue and Corinth Blue, which created a wonderful peacock blue....

Metallic Masterpiece in Milk Paint and Pearl Effects

Past Thymes Market refinished this metallic masterpiece using General Finishes Queenstown Gray Milk Paint topped with a custom mix of Dark Chocolate Milk Paint and Burnished Pearl Effects. A custom glaze was created by combining Lamp Black Milk Paint with Clear Glaze Base. The entire project was sealed with High Performance Top coat.

Emerald Dresser

Birds of a Feather went bold with GF Emerald Milk Paint and Pitch Black Glaze Effects!

Snow White and Pitch Black Buffet

Meredith of La Jolie Maison gave this buffet a fab new look with General Finishes Snow White Milk Paint accented with Pitch Black Glaze Effects.

Handsome Java Highboy

This handsome antique highboy dresser was given new life with Java Gel Stain and aged details with Van Dyke Brown Glaze, courtesy of Shelley at Fresh Patina! The details were painted with Comfort Gray by Sherwin Williams. Shelley says, "Don't forget the top coat...Wipe On Gel Top Coat from General Finishes is so easy to use!" Thanks for sharing, we love it! Learn how to apply our Gel Top Coat in our video tutorial! http://bit.ly/1njwYdm

Green Console Table

This table was transformed by Krakeel Kreations_ with GF Bayberry Green Milk Paint (discontinued color) and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. For a similar look use GF's Basil Milk Paint. Looks great!

Glazed Water Based Wood Stain Examples

Add depth and dimension to the details of your stained project with Glaze Effects! Watch tutorial video here: https://bit.ly/GFVideoHowToApplyGlazeOverWaterBasedStain

Glazed Seagull Gray Desk

"Had to tie this big guy to the top of my car to get it home! But we made it and now he is all made over and ready for a new home! It was a fun piece to complete! It is painted a mix of General Finishes Seagull Gray and Lamp Black with an Antique Walnut stained top with Pitch Black Glaze over the entire piece and then finished off with GF Flat Topcoat!" - Sparrow Furniture Restoration

Custom Midnight Blue Metal Cabinet

Circa 1960's Cole Steel METAL parts cabinet. 27 drawers had their original hardware removed and a grinding wheel used to remove its old finish and rust. Degreased, primed and updated in a custom Midnight Blue finish (General Finishes Blue Moon/Lamp Black Milk Paint) with blackened antique wash. The original hardware was cleaned and received an updated modern finish with vintage number tags. All drawers are metal as well as entire base. Custom fabricated legs bolted to base and finished to match...

Decoupaged Desk with Van Dyke Glaze

How beautiful is this desk by Denise from Salvaged Inspirations!?It was restyled with decoupaged napkins on the drawer fronts. To get a warm antique look Denise used General Finishes Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. Love this French Country look! Check out all the details of this project at http://salvagedinspirations.com/how-to-decoupage-with-napkins/.

Distressed Fireplace

Meredith Jones Leider of La Jolie Maison gave this fireplace a new look with General Finishes Snow White, Linen, Millstone and Tuscan Red Milk Paint and Pitch Black Glaze Effects.

Snow White and Van Dyke Brown Kitchen Cabinets

Drabs 2 Fabs shared their kitchen cabinet makeover. "We have been using your paints to paint for a while now and love them!!! We just painted this kitchen in Snow White Milk Paint and glazed it with Van Dyke Brown and it is gorgeous!"

Basil Farmhouse Buffet

We adore this farmhouse buffet by Gravity Hill Furnishings, GF's August 2017 Retailer of the Month. "The body was brush painted with the Basil Milk Paint and then slightly distressed. Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects were also applied to really give it a farm house feel. The top was sanded to bare wood and stained with Java Gel Stain. The piece is sealed with HPTC Satin." Visit Gravity Hill Furnishings at Gilley's Antique & Decorator Mall located at 5789 US-40 Booth C-11...

Shabby Chic Coffee Table Transformation

"Susanna Dussling of Hope and Happiness Fine Vintage Furniture_ did this extremely shabby chic coffee table in all General Finishes products. Painted in layers with Dark Chocolate, Halycon Blue, and Linen. Distressed, antiqued with Van Dyke Brown Glaze, and sealed with the amazing Flat out Flat." Thanks so much for sharing this beautiful piece, Susanna!

Delightful Dresser in Queenstown Gray

Kimberly Starr of Art & Soul Studio 2 dazzled us with this delightful dresser! She used Queenstown Gray Milk Paint, then finished with a layer of Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. Find your favorite GF products in the U.S. at Woodcraft, Rockler, Klingspor, Amazon, or, in Canada, at Wood Essence and Lee Valley. You can also purchase GF products from any of the 31 Illinois JC Licht locations or use your own zip code to find a retailer near you at ...

Get The Look: Dark Chocolate hand-distressed with Yellow Ochre Glaze

Videos

How To Glaze Furniture

How to Apply Glaze Effects Over Stain

FAQs

Glaze Effects FAQs

*Does Glaze Effects Require Topcoat?

Absolutely. All stains and glazes require a sealant. Think of the stain or glaze as the color and the topcoat as protection.

Relevant Videos

Can Glaze Effects be sealed with wax instead of top coat?

Yes, you can use Satin Wax instead of top coat if you prefer. Although GF loves the look of wax, we recommend using top coat because wax is not as durable. Wax requires annual maintenance and it must be removed if you want to apply topcoat in the future.

Related Products

Glaze Effects

Satin Finishing Wax

Relevant Videos

Can I apply Glaze Effects under UV Cure Urethane Topcoat?

Yes, General Finishes Glaze Effects can be applied under the UV Cure Urethane topcoat. We recommend applying a coat of General Finishes Enduro Clear Poly before applying glaze for more control of the color.

Related Products

Glaze Effects

Relevant Videos

*How Can I Create a Custom Glaze, Wash, Varnish or Stain?

You can design your own custom glazes, stains, washes, and varnishes with General Finishes intermixable water-based products. See tips and recipes below.

For all of the following mixes, GF recommends the following two steps:

Applying a base layer of High Performance Top Coat before applying your custom glaze.
Protect all of these finishes with 2-3 coats of top coat when you are finished.

PASTEL GLAZE/WHITEWASH:

Milk Paint + Winter White Glaze Effects OR Milk Paint + Water Based Whitewash Wood Stain

NOTE: Do not add more than 50% paint. If you add more than 50% you will have so much pigment that it will be difficult to wipe away the finish.

CUSTOM GLAZE:

For example, Pitch Black Glaze Effects + Winter White Glaze Effects

Experiment with proportions and colors.

WOOD STAIN AS A GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + 10% High Performance Top Coat
OR
Oil Based Wood Stain + 10% Mineral Spirits

Note: Make sure that you wait 72 hours before applying a water-based topcoat on top of an oil-based stain.

AGED/VARNISH GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio
OR
Dye Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio

CUSTOM STAIN COLORS:

1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Pre-Stain Natural [50:50 mix]
OR
1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Glaze Effects - Clear Base [50:50 mix]
OR
1 part Milk Paint + 2 parts Water Based Stain Natural [1:2 parts]

Note: Proportions are relative to the color you are reducing. Some colors may require 2 parts clear base to reduce strength, others may require 1. Begin with a 50:50 mix, and add more clear base if necessary.

You can further increase the color palette by mixing 2 or 3 Milk Paint colors together before adding the clear base.

Related Products

Glaze Effects

General Finishes Satin Water Based Topcoat High Performance, Quart

High Performance Polyurethane Water Based Topcoat

Milk Paint

General Finishes Natural Water Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner, Quart

Water Based Pre-Stain Conditioner

Relevant Videos

*How Can I Tint or Mix Your Black Glaze to Make a Custom Gray Color?

There are three ways:

Mix with small amount of General Finishes Milk Paint in Snow White.
Add a small amount of General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain in White.
Professional users could add General Finishes Enduro Pigmented White Poly.

Related Products

Enduro White Undercoat

Glaze Effects

Milk Paint

Relevant Videos

*Can I Create a Glaze with General Finishes Water Based Stains?

General Finishes stains make beautiful glazes. Just add 10% General Finishes High Performance Topcoat.

Related Products

Glaze Effects

High Performance Polyurethane Water Based Topcoat

Water Based Wood Stain

Relevant Videos

*Does Glaze Effects Require Topcoat?

Absolutely. All stains and glazes require a sealant. Think of the stain or glaze as the color and the topcoat as protection.

Relevant Videos

*How Can I Create a Custom Glaze, Wash, Varnish or Stain?

You can design your own custom glazes, stains, washes, and varnishes with General Finishes intermixable water-based products. See tips and recipes below.

For all of the following mixes, GF recommends the following two steps:

Applying a base layer of High Performance Top Coat before applying your custom glaze.
Protect all of these finishes with 2-3 coats of top coat when you are finished.

PASTEL GLAZE/WHITEWASH:

Milk Paint + Winter White Glaze Effects OR Milk Paint + Water Based Whitewash Wood Stain

NOTE: Do not add more than 50% paint. If you add more than 50% you will have so much pigment that it will be difficult to wipe away the finish.

CUSTOM GLAZE:

For example, Pitch Black Glaze Effects + Winter White Glaze Effects

Experiment with proportions and colors.

WOOD STAIN AS A GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + 10% High Performance Top Coat
OR
Oil Based Wood Stain + 10% Mineral Spirits

Note: Make sure that you wait 72 hours before applying a water-based topcoat on top of an oil-based stain.

AGED/VARNISH GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio
OR
Dye Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio

CUSTOM STAIN COLORS:

You can further increase the color palette by mixing 2 or 3 Milk Paint colors together before adding the clear base.

Related Products

Glaze Effects

High Performance Polyurethane Water Based Topcoat

Milk Paint

Water Based Pre-Stain Conditioner

Relevant Videos

*How Can I Tint or Mix Your Black Glaze to Make a Custom Gray Color?

There are three ways:

Mix with small amount of General Finishes Milk Paint in Snow White.
Add a small amount of General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain in White.
Professional users could add General Finishes Enduro Pigmented White Poly.

Related Products

Enduro White Undercoat

Glaze Effects

Milk Paint

Relevant Videos

*Is Topcoat Required Between Gel Stain and Water Based Glaze Effects?

Yes - this is not a good place to take shortcuts. GF Gel Stain gets its deep rich hue from a large number of colorants. Seal the stain with a topcoat before applying glaze to prevent "color pull."

The glaze will also glide more easily over the surface after topcoat is applied, allowing you greater control of how much color you want to use. Be sure to wait 72 hours when applying water-based finishes over oil-based finishes.

Here is a sample finish schedule: