Pearl Effects

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation for Pearl Effects

General Finishes Pearl Effects must be applied over a sealed surface, such as General Finishes Milk Paint or General Finishes High Performance Topcoat.

Over a Newly Sealed Surface
If Pearl Effects are applied over a newly sealed surface, it is not necessary to sand the sealed surface before application.

Over a Previous Existing Finish
If Pearl Effects are applied over an older, existing finish, prep cleaning and sanding is required to remove dirt, grime and potential contaminants.

Sand glossy existing finishes with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad before applying Pearl Effects.

Step 2: How To Apply General Finishes Pearl Effects

General Finishes Pearl Effects Application Steps

ALWAYS apply Pearl Effects over a sealed surface, such as General Finishes High Performance Topcoat or General Finishes Milk Paint; we recommend 1-2 coats of sealant before application. Sand glossy existing finishes with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad before applying Pearl Effects.

Pearl Effects will separate in the can. Stir paint to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom before and throughout the application process. TIP: turn can upside down before stirring to make it easier to mix.
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.
Apply 1+ coat of Pearl Effects:
- Hand application: Apply using a synthetic bristle brush, foam brush, paint pad applicator or roller.
- Spray application: Before spraying, strain paint through a medium-mesh filter. Spray wet films at 3-5-mil thickness. HVLP: 1.8mm-2.0mm spray tip, medium air cap. Verify tip sizes with your equipment supplier. See our general guide for spray tip sizes. Keep your gun at a 90° angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large, flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6-8" wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" wide to reduce overspray. Overlap each pass 25% to conceal lines. Wear a full filter (NIOSH/MSHA approved) respiratory & eye protection and work in a ventilated space. Visit this FAQ for more information on spraying techniques .
Dry 3+ hours between coats and 12 hours before GF water-based topcoat in ideal conditions: 70°F/20°C; 50-70% humidity. Allow to dry completely. 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%
- 3+ coats are applied
- A thick coat is applied
- 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
- To accelerate dry time in humid conditions, add General Finishes Accelerator and work in a space with good ventilation and air movement. If you decide to re-coat before the recommended time, test dryness.
If a smoother texture is desired, 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 Pearl Effects with 2-3 coats of clear topcoat.

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 Pearl Effects

ALWAYS seal General Finishes Pearl Effects with 2-3 coats of clear topcoat, e.g. General Finishes High Performance Topcoat.

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)

Creative Techniques Using Pearl Effects

Glaze

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Pearl Effects
General Finishes Extender OR General Finishes High Performance Topcoat

Create a glaze by thinning Pearl Effects with 10% Extender or High Performance Topcoat.

Dry Brush

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Pearl Effects
General Finishes Extender
Assorted Bristle Brushes

STEPS:

Reduce Pearl Effects by 5% with Extender.
Lightly dust the mixture onto the surface with a bristle brush.
For extra protection after applying Pearl Effects, seal with 1-2 coats of High Performance Topcoat. Lightly sand between coats using a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad or 400-grit sandpaper.

Shimmer

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Pearl Effects
General Finishes High Performance Topcoat

Thin Pearl Effects with 50-80% High Performance Topcoat.

Scandinavian Mixed Media Technique with Efex

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Chalk Style Paint: Summertime Blue
General Finishes Chalk Style Paint: Charleton Blue
General Finishes Chalk Style Paint: French Vanilla
General Finishes Glaze Effects: Van Dyke Brown
General Finishes Pearl Effects: Burnished Pearl
Water-Based Topcoat: Flat
Rapid Fuse Glue
Efex Molding
Assorted Foam & Chip Brushes
Spray Water Bottle
Paper Towels

STEPS:

Apply Efex with Dap Rapid Fuse Glue.
Paint 1 to 2 coats of Summertime Blue Chalk Style Paint.
Lightly wet-brush French Vanilla Chalk Style Paint over the piece.
Wet-brush Charleton Blue Chalk Style Paint in corners and edges, dampen with water to lessen the effect. Blot with a paper towel. Let dry.
Apply Van Dyke Glaze Effects to the entire piece. Use a wet brush or water bottle to lessen effect where needed. Wipe back.
Apply Burnished Pearl Effects to corners and over Efex molding.
Seal with 2-3 coats of flat water-based topcoat.

Aged Metallic Finish

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Chalk Style Paint: Slate Gray
General Finishes Glaze Effects: Pitch Black
General Finishes Pearl Effects: Argentine Pearl
General Finishes Pearl Effects: Bronze Pearl
General Finishes Pearl Effects: Tawny Pearl
Water-Based Topcoat
Assorted Foam & Chip Brushes
Spray Water Bottle
Paper Towels

STEPS:

Paint 1 to 2 coats of Slate Gray Chalk Style Paint.
Paint Argentine Pearl Effects thickly in a crisscross pattern, leaving strokes visible.
Paint on Bronze & Tawny Pearl Effects in a crisscross pattern randomly in a few spots. Let dry.
Apply Pitch Black Glaze Effects, wipe off immediately.
Spray water on to remove more glaze if desired.
Seal with 3 coats of water-based topcoat.

Burnt Copper Look

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Pearl Effects: Copper Pearl
General Finishes Pearl Effects: Bronze Pearl
General Finishes Pearl Effects: Tawny Pearl
General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain: Espresso
Water-Based Topcoat
Spray Water Bottle
Paper Towels
Assorted Chip Brushes

STEPS:

Combine a 50:50 mix of Bronze and Tawny Pearl Effects with a few drops of Copper Pearl Effects added.
Pounce and crisscross mix randomly all over the piece.
Pounce pure Copper Pearl Effects in a few random spots.
Let dry.
Brush on Espresso Water Based Wood Stain and sponge off with a paper towel.
Use a spray bottle of water to apply runs and lessen effect where desired.
Seal with 3 coats of water-based topcoat.

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

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

Pearl 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:

Argentine Pearl:
This product can expose you to chemicals including Formaldehyde, 1,4-Dioxane, Ethyl acrylate, Acetaldehyde, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Bronze Pearl:
This product can expose you to chemicals including Formaldehyde, 1,4-Dioxane, Ethyl acrylate, Acetaldehyde, Copper, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Burnished Pearl, Champagne Pearl, Copper Pearl, Tawny Pearl:
This product can expose you to chemicals including Formaldehyde, 1,4-Dioxane, Ethyl acrylate, Acetaldehyde, Titanium dioxide, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

WARNING: HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED.
Keep out of reach of children. Do not swallow. Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Wash thoroughly after handling.

Colors

Pearl Effects Colors

Specifications

Basic Features
Product Colors	Argentine Pearl, Bronze Pearl, Burnished Pearl, Champagne Pearl, Copper Pearl, Tawny Pearl
Base Type	Water
Interior or Exterior	Interior
Type	Metallic Paint
Application
Coats	1+ coats
Application Method	Brush, Spray
Brushable	Yes
Usable over existing finishes	Yes
Sprayable	Yes
Spray Tip Sizes	HVLP 1.8mm-2.0mm
Topcoat Required	Yes
Dry Time
Dry Time - Touch	1+ hr
Dry Time - Recoat	3+ hr
Contents
Can Sizes	Pints
Coverage	40-50 sq.ft./pint
Technical Data
Viscosity	Medium
Weight Solids	45%
VOC	US VOC Argentine: <130 g/L Bronze: <130 g/L Burnished: <121 g/L Champagne: <123 g/L Copper: <123 g/L Tawny: <123 g/L

Design Center

Lamp Black and Tawny Pearl Effect Dresser

"As lovely, mellow and as beautiful as the sounds of a cello, this stately antique will be an impressive addition to almost any room in your home. Finished with General Finishes Lamp Black over Tawny Pearl Effects. Sealed with HPTC Satin." - Jubilee Vintique

Get The Look: Argentine Pearl Effects over Queenstown Gray Milk Paint

Stipple Argentine Pearl Effects over Queenstown Gray Milk Paint to get this look.

Glazed Driftwood Dresser

How beautiful is this French Provincial dresser from Anastasia Vintage?! Anastasia says, "I decided to go for a classic look. First, a base coat of General Finishes Milk Paint in Driftwood. Then, I added some Pitch Black Glaze by General Finishes to add some more dimension. I finished the whole piece off with High Performance Topcoat in Flat. To add a little glamor to the drawers, I painted the sides with General Finishes Pearl Effects in Burnished. Because a little extra glitz never hurt...

Chair Details in Copper Pearl Effects

This chair underwent a stunning transformation! Southern Revivals applied General Finishes Copper Pearl Pearl Effects to the details in this chair. "It’s water based so it washes off easily but not at the expensive of coverage. It’s a gorgeous color, full of pigment. One coat went a long way." -Southern Revivals

Vanity in Pearl Effects

This ole gal was so sad and missing a mirror. With lots of luck one was found and now "Isn't she Lovely"❤The entire thing was cleaned and old finish sanded off the top. Vanity and mirror painted in General Finishes Driftwood then white washed in in pure white and wiped off but left in crevices. Then the bling begins!!! Foil adhesive applied randomly on edges, legs and designs so that the silver leaf looks like it is peeling off. Amazing!!!! Drawers lined in gray velvet , a surprise...

Bookcase & Bench Makeover in GF Gel Stain

"This bookcase has been darkened with General Finishes Gel Stain in Antique Walnut and the back wall is painted with Burnished Pearl Effects. The gossip bench was given a complete overhaul. From blonde to deep java... yum!" - GarageMama Vintage

"Carrara Marble" Countertop with GF Milk Paint

Complete kitchen cabinet and countertop transformation by Boutique Unique! The cabinets were painted in General Finishes Driftwood Gray and the countertops were given the looks of Carrara marble using General Finishes paints and pearl effects!! Boutique Unique says, "To achieve this marble look we practiced and practiced and watched several tutorials in addition to attending some faux finish training. Here's what we did: first we sanded the existing countertops to get some...

Stunning Dresser Dressed in Knights Armor

"Very excited to finally post this piece and my new specialty finish I’m calling 'Knights Armor.' This Large Bombay Chest updates any bedroom or entry way with an elegant and classically aged style. "Hand-painted using General Finishes Queenstown Gray Milk Paint as a base coat, with a secondary coat of Argentine Pearl, Pearl Effects; painted on and textured to give this unique look. Then layers of Bronze & Tawny Pearl Effects, applied to add to the depth. "Finally a layer...

Bone White and Champagne Pearl Effects Dresser

Belle Maison created this shimmering beauty with GF Bone White Chalk Style Paint and Champagne Pearl Effects.

Picture Frame made of Salvaged Dock Timbers & GF Products

"The piece is made completely from salvaged dock timbers from a Coast Guard station; it is dense yellow pine. After cleaning decades of salt, oil, and grime off the wood, I left the surface in its natural state to show it's beautifully weathered and rugged profile." - Tobias Olsen of Cascade Pacific Woodworks The following products to were to refinish this lovely project: Java Gel Stain, High Performance Topcoat, Driftwood Milk Paint, Argentine and Tawny Pearl Effects.

Pearl Effects Accented Bedroom Set

"This client owned dresser set was refinished using General Finishes Empire Gray Milk Paint and was glazed with Burnished Pearl, Argentine Pearl, and Pitch Black Glaze Effects! It turned out amazing!"

Copper Pearl and Lamp Black Buffet

"This black stallion is finished!! He has been painted with General Finishes Lamp Black and accented with Copper Pearl Effects." Blooming Hydrangea Co Check out these videos on GF Pearl Effects: How to Create a Metallic Finish with GF Pearl Effects - http://bit.ly/VideoGFCreateMetalicFinishWithPearlEffects Create Techniques with Pearl Effects -...

Coastal Blue Linen Cabinet

This lovely Linen cabinet was given a fresh new look. I stripped and primed first and then used Coastal Blue over the whole piece. The interiors were stained using Antique oak stain. I stenciled each top corner of the cabinet using Burnished Pearl and also used burnished pearl on each leg. The piece was then sealed with High Performance Top Coat, and she was ready to go.

Coffee Table in Aged/Hammered Copper Finish

"This two-tier coffee table has been given my Aged/Hammered Copper finish throughout the top and covering the bottom shelf. The legs are black tying in the glaze accenting throughout. The top and bottom areas have both been given layers of Polycrylic for added protection." - Refurbished Gentleman, LLC Refurbished Gentleman used General Finishes products, included Lamp Black Milk Paint, Copper Pearl Effects, Pitch Black Glaze Effects and High Performance Topcoat Flat.

Antique White Dresser Accented with Pearl Effects

"The true beauty is in the reflection. Just look at those gorgeous mountains peeking through. What an amazing state to live in..we are truly blessed. Oh and this dresser isn't too bad either." - Just Chic Just Chic, a GF retailer in Anchorage, AK, created this look with GF Antique White Milk Paint that's been stippled with Argentine and Burnished Pearl Effects then blended with touches of Antique White and the lovely Champagne Pearl Effects. The top is stained with a custom mix of...

Argentine Pearl Effects Dresser

Loving this metallic look by Flipping Unbelievable! It's a combo of GF Argentine Pearl Effects, Driftwood Milk Paint, Pitch Black Glaze Effects and High Performance Topcoat.

Shimmering End Tables

We are absolutely smitten with these shimmering end tables by Rustic Roots! These beauties were refinished in Queenstown Gray Milk Paint, Bronze Pearl Effects, Antique Walnut Gel Stain on top, and High Performance Topcoat to seal in the magic! "Excited to have used General Finishes Bronze Pearl Effects for the first time! I painted these side tables with GF Queenstown Gray and than sealed with a HPTC and embellished with the Pearl effects and I than applied Antique Walnut Gel Stain on the...

Creative Pearl Effects

Reblessed, LLC says "Pearl Effects are such a sophisticated way to add a metallic look to any item. We've used ours on furniture, lamps, picture frames, furniture trim, artwork, decor, and more. They can be applied as a solid metallic for a more bold "dipped" look or as a glaze for a more subtle look. We generously applied the Argentine Pearl and the Champagne Pearl over the Driftwood Milk Paint as a glaze. We then decided to add the Van Dyke Brown glaze over it to give the silver tones more...

Copper Pearl Effects Dresser

"I love how this turned out! It is painted with General Finishes Lamp Black and lightly distressed. The drawers are Copper Pearl Effects and Pitch Black glaze." - Elderberry Place

Blue and Gold Ombre Desk

"I'm seriously obsessed with this desk. I can't remember the last time I loved something so much! Painted in Fusion Mineral Paint Seaside, with Homestead Blue shading, then washed with General Finishes Coastal Blue. She has an upwards General Finishes Somerset Gold and Burnished Pearl Effects ombre. Sealed with General Finishes High Performance Flat, I added Fusion Mineral Paint Aging Wax to give her a vintage feel. The old hardware was gross, so I splurged on these fantastic pulls." - Flipping...

Vintage Chest Restyle

Divine vintage chest restyle by Rochelle at Made New! Rochelle used Driftwood Gray Milk Paint, Winter White Glaze Effects, and our new Champagne Pearl Effects on this beauty!

Antique White, Seagull Gray and Champagne Pearl Effects Desk

Buy Smart Now_ shared this French Provincial desk refinished with GF Antique White and Seagull Gray Milk Paint with a touch of Champagne Pearl Effects. What a classy look!

Get The Look: Copper Pearl Effects

Custom Pink Dresser with Champagne Pearl Effects

Southern Vintage Finds created their own custom milk paint color for this dresser by mixing GF Holiday Red and Antique White Milk Paint. The top and drawer accents were topped with GF's Champagne Pearl Effects for an extra special touch!

Vintage Game Table in Queenstown Gray Milk Paint

Check out this awesome game table by Roots & Wings Furniture! Refinished with General Finishes Queenstown Gray Milk Paint and the old leather top was remade to look like metal inlays with Pearl Effects.

Lovely Serena

"I found Serena languishing in a local thrift store. She was built in my local area nearly 100 years ago. Her existing finish was alligator scaly and she was missing veneer in a lot of places. This is the second dresser I chose to tackle and I envisioned I could transform her back to glory with some paint and glaze. I cleaned her, stripped her, patched her and sanded her, and she began to come back to life. I chose to stain the top with a custom mix of antique walnut and...

Chest in Antique White and Burnished Pearl Effects

"Painted with GF Milk Paint in Antique White and Persian Blue with GF Burnished Pearl Effects. Added gray, black and gold glazes to antique the sides. Sealed with GF High Performance Top Coat in satin." - TotoTwiga

Champagne Pearl Effects Washstand

Take a look at this gorgeous "Zinc Washstand with Pearl Effects" from Helen Nichole Designs! The washstand was first painted black. It was then topped with the Champagne Pearl Effects and dry brushed with a little more black paint for a lovely metallic look. This one is definitely a head turner!

Antique White Built Ins and Mantle

"Just finished a customer's "new" built-ins and mantel. She decided to warm the room up with __General Finishes_ Antique White. Next, to help her mantel stand out, we added General Finishes Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects, a touch of Burnt Umber Glaze Effects and topped it off with a hearty coat of Champagne Pearl Effects. She ___ it and we are so happy she's happy!" - Reclaimed Karma

Buffet in Patina Green & Tawny Pearl

"Wow, didn't she turn out gorgeous! This is one of those I was tempted to keep. Painted in General Finishes Patina Green Milk Paint, distressed, Masion Blanche Antique waxed and glazed with General Finishes Tawny Pearl Effects. Sealed with GF High Performance Topcoat and original hardware gilded in Foundry Bronze." - Vintage Sisters

Champagne Pearl Effects in varying degrees over Nantucket Green

I did a very quick board yesterday to show how Champagne Pearl looks when made into a glaze. Using a very light touch it creates a beautiful shimmer

Get The Look: Argentine, Bronze & Burnished Pearl Effects Over Queenstown Gray Milk Paint

Get this look by stippling Argentine, Bronze and Burnished Pearl Effects over Queenstown Gray Milk Paint. Watch these videos to learn more about how to apply GF Pearl Effects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRyD4KtypkU&t=414s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eO55bnzQTj4

French Provincial Desk in Argentine Pearl Effects

Loving this French Provincial desk by Virginia Vintage Interiors. Finished with General Finishes Argentine Pearl Effects and High Performance Topcoat Satin.

A Book Cabinet to Remember

After months of searching for the perfect book cabinet and not finding anything I loved, I finally decided to order a custom unfinished piece. Fenton MacLaren's in Berkeley, CA made this alder bookcase for me and I was beyond excited to finish it! I used a combination of Seagull Gray and Persian Blue to create a beautiful color to match my living room. I then used Champagne Pearl mixed with Clear Base Glaze Effects to add a bit of shimmer. The whole piece was topped with High Performance Top...

Basil Dresser

"Persian Blue Milk Paint from General Finishes was a great choice for this classic piece. The hardware is painted with Driftwood Milk Paint and Pearl Effects in Argentine Pearl as a nod to old pewter." - Gravity Hill Furnishings

Beautiful French Dressing Table in Antique White & Champagne Pearl

"Blaknite Bespoke Furniture is proud to present this beautiful french dressing table with triple mirrors. It will take pride of place in any girl's bedroom. "The entire piece has been stripped down to bare wood before being primed and painted in General Finishes Antique White Milk Paint. The table has also been painted in High Performance Topcoat to which Champagne Pearl Effects have been added. The drawers have been lined in cream and gold paper." - Blaknite Bespoke Furniture

Cocktail Dreams

This antique cabinet was given a fresh new look. After stripping and priming, I painted it in a custom blend to create this lovely fresh light grey. The interiors were treated to a fresh stain using Antique oak. For the stencil I used Pearl Effects in Argentine pearl, on both sides of the cabinet, and also used Pearl Effects to highlight corners and edging. The handles were brightened using silver Run N buff. To finish off I sealed with High Performance Top Coat, and this lovely Lady was...

Delightful Table in Lamp Black & Copper Pearl

"Just finished the sister from the dry sink cabinet. Freshly painted with General Finishes Lamp Black Milk Paint and Copper Pearl Effects. She is ready to be taken to her forever home! She can be found at Wild Rose Boutique Evansville." - Blooming Hydrangea Co

Jaw-Dropping Dresser in Milk Paint Palette

Check out this jaw-dropping masterpiece by Not2Shabby Furniture! This dresser's finish had been creating using these GF Milk Paints: Coastal Blue, Snow White, Sunglow, Emerald, and Holiday Red. To add that extra POP, Not2Shabby used Argentine Pearl Effects. See other unique designs that people have created by going to our Design Center at http://designs.generalfinishes.com/color-category/other.

Copper Pearl Effects Side Table

Loving this hammered copper finish by Plum Doodles! This side table was refinished with GF Copper Pearl Effects and Coastal Blue Milk Paint. Learn more about how to apply GF Pearl Effects in these videos: How to Create a Metallic Finish with GF Pearl Effects: http://bit.ly/VideoGFCreateMetalicFinishWithPearlEffects Creative Techniques with GF Pearl Effects:...

Charleton Blue and Burnished Pearl Effects Dresser

"This shimmery blue/green dresser is all finished and looking for a home. Painted in a custom mix of General Finishes Charleston Blue Chalk Style Paint and General Finishes Pearl Effects Burnished Pearl. I lightly distressed along the edges and sealed with a satin, high performance top coat. Mixing pearl effects with my paint is my new favorite thing! Come grab some colors today and see what color combos you come up with." - Helen Nichole Designs Visit Helen Nichole Designs at 720 South...

Champagne Pearl Effects Side Table

Check out this awesome transformation from Nutmeg Creative Cafe_! This brown French Provincial side table was salvaged from the trash and brought back to life with General Finishes Champagne Pearl Effects and gold paint. Nutmeg Creative Cafe entered this piece into The Fab Furniture Flippin' Contest_ for September whose theme was "geometric design". GF was honored to be part of the contest by being a sponsor!

Get the Look: Copper & Tawny Pearl Effects over Evening Plum Milk Paint

Get this look by stippling Copper and Tawny Pearl Effects over 2 coats of Evening Plum Milk Paint. Watch these videos to learn more about how to apply GF Pearl Effects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRyD4KtypkU&t=414s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eO55bnzQTj4

The Eclipse

General Finishes Design Challenge Winner 2017›Upcycling›Bling it on U.S.A.(Merit Judging)›3rd Place This finish was inspired and created in anticipation of the Solar Eclipse of 2017. Like the upcoming celestrial event, warmth and light shimmer through darkess at varying degrees across the surface. The circular design on the doors of this 1920's Art Deco Buffet mimic the sun and moon making it...

Persian Blue and Burnished Pearl Efects Accent Table

"This was one of our most prized pieces of furniture in the store because it is so beautiful, so we were very relieved when our customer chose Persian Blue and Burnished Pearl Pearl Effects because it stays within the color scheme of traditional European furniture. This dreamy project quickly topped our list as one of our favorite transformations." - Reblessed, LLC

Mid-Century Sideboard in Brilliant Brick Red

Loving this brilliant Mid-Century sideboard finished with General Finishes Brick Red Milk Paint, Burnished Pearl Effects and High Performance Topcoat Satin by Virginia Vintage Interiors.

Lamp Black and Pearl Effects Table

This formerly dark oak table was given a new life in our Furniture Fridays class! Painted with General Finishes Lamp Black and a glaze mix of Copper Pearl and Burnished Pearl. We are loving the new Pearl Effects from General Finishes! - The Artistic Home Studio and Boutique

Get The Look: Argentine & Bronze Pearl Effects Dry Brushed Over Lamp Black Milk Paint

Get this look by dry brushing Argentine and Bronze Pearl Effects over Lamp Black Milk Paint. Watch these videos to learn more about how to apply GF Pearl Effects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRyD4KtypkU&t=414s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eO55bnzQTj4

Get The Look: Burnished Pearl Effects over Holiday Red Milk Paint

Get the Look by creating a 50/50 mix of Burnished Pearl Effects and High Performance Topcoat and applying over Holiday Red Milk Paint.

Videos

Creative Techniques Using Pearl Effects

How to Create A Metallic Finish With Pearl Effects

Get the Look: Burnished Pearl Effects

FAQs

Pearl Effects FAQs

*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.