In my last post I mentioned finishing two projects for my YouTube channel, and this plant stand was the final piece. I wanted to share the method I used for upcycling and finishing it so you can follow along if you’re planning a similar DIY project. The approach is simple, beginner-friendly and focused on chalk paint, distressing and waxing.
When converting an item into a self-contained planter or plant stand, it’s important to think about paint and moisture. Chalk paint, wax and water spills don’t mix well if you leave soil or water exposed, so designing a contained planting area or using separate pots inside the stand is a practical solution. If you know you’re likely to spill water often, skip the dark wax finish and choose a durable water-based varnish instead. Avoid oil-based varnishes for painted projects unless you want a yellowing effect over time.
I keep a small laminated cheat sheet of Annie Sloan’s key methods, and this project follows her basic shabby-chic technique with one alteration: I prefer to include a primer coat before painting. The complete method I used is: one coat of primer, one coat of chalk paint, careful distressing, clear wax and a final application of dark wax. I find that clear wax acts as a protective buffer between the paint and the darker wax, which makes blending and cleanup easier.
Clear wax protects the paint and helps you remove excess dark wax if the finish looks too heavy, while dark wax adds depth and an aged appearance. Dark wax is economical because a little goes a long way; since I first bought a tin a couple of years ago, it’s lasted through many projects. Still, Annie Sloan products can be pricey, so work cautiously and apply dark wax sparingly at first. If the finish ends up too dark, you can soften it by buffing or adding more clear wax in the affected areas.
Here are some practical tips for a clean, long-lasting finish:
- Prep well: Lightly sand any rough areas and apply a single coat of primer suitable for the material. Primer helps adhesion and avoids extra coats of paint.
- Paint sparingly: One coat of good-quality chalk paint often gives the look you want. Apply thin, even strokes and let it dry fully before distressing.
- Distress with intention: Use sandpaper or a sanding block to reveal edges and corners where natural wear would occur. Less is often more—distress gradually until you achieve the desired look.
- Wax application: Apply clear wax first to seal the paint. Use a lint-free cloth or soft brush for even coverage. Let it cure following manufacturer guidance, then add dark wax carefully in small amounts, working it in with a soft brush and removing excess with a clean cloth.
- Protect from moisture: For plant stands, use trays or waterproof liners where pots sit. If you plan to water plants directly in the stand, consider using a water-based varnish over the paint for extra protection.
- Work in stages: Dark wax develops depth over time. Apply small amounts, allow curing, and reassess rather than applying a large amount at once.
If this post inspires you to tackle an upcycling project, I’d love to see your photos—please share them if you can. Don’t be afraid of dark wax; try it slowly and you may find the aged, warm finish becomes your favorite way to finish furniture and small upcycled pieces.
For a related tutorial, I previously upcycled an old drawer into a plant stand for free—see the post titled “How to make a plant stand,” which describes using reclaimed materials and simple upcycling techniques to create a functional planter from a discarded drawer.
More Upcycling Furniture for Beginners You Might Like
- Zebra print furniture with a creative art masking tape technique
- How to upcycle an old picture frame and turn it into a blackboard
- My whitewashing wood painting tutorial
- How to box in a boiler and turn it into a blackboard and meal planner