Saltwash is a product that was invented to create a unique weather-worn texture that imitates a sun and salt air soaked look in just two quick steps. Saltwash is made with real sea salt and all of the ingredients in it are considered safe in a working environment.
When mixed to the desired consistency, you will notice it dries very fast and adheres to almost any surface that takes paint. It was designed to be mixed into paint, such as Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and used as the base coat. Originally intended for furniture, Saltwash has also proved to give a unique look to walls, flooring, metal and even plastic.
Step one: Choose your base paint
Saltwash can literally be used with any kind of paint. The additive works with acrylic, latex, oil and is especially great with decorative paints like Chalk Paint by Annie Sloan.
Here is a great reference sheet.
{I painted the base coat an acrylic green.}
Step two: Add the Saltwash
It is recommended that for a quart of paint you use anywhere from 20-25 oz of Saltwash. However, if you’re working with less than a quart, pay attention to the consistency. You want it to look like cake batter. Use a ratio of 2:1.25 to 2:1.5 when measuring out for projects.
Note: Saltwash will not change the color of your paint.
Step three: Apply the Saltwash
Glob the product onto the surface of your piece. You’re looking for peaks of paint, which you’ll get by dabbing your brush up and down when applying the product. Don’t be shy! Cover the surface entirely.
Step four: Let the Saltwash dry
You’ll know it’s ready when it because tacky to the touch.
Step five: Smooth the Saltwash
Using the same application brush, simply smooth out the peaks of paint using a gentle back and forth stroking motion with the brush. You still want to have a textured look. Now wait for the Saltwash to completely dry.
Step six: Apply top coat {2nd color of paint}
This coat of paint will not have any Saltwash product in it. To get the full effect, we recommend using a different color. Let this coat of paint completely dry before moving to the next step.
Step seven: Sand your piece
Using a light grit sander or by hand, sand the piece of furniture in different areas to let the bottom Saltwash layer peek through.
- Information adapted from Saltwash class taken at Restoring Piece in Northport, Alabama.
Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water. James 3: 11-13
