Instead of using decals or dry-brushing, I’ve developed a simple two-step method to produce realistic wood grain on plastic.First, apply a base coat of flat tan or brown enamel, brushing in the direction of the wood grain. (The shade of brown you use helps determine the base color of the wood you are trying to replicate: For example, add a little yellow for pine and raw wood, or a little red for mahogany and darker woods.) You want ridges, so don’t worry about a smooth finish; in fact, brushing as the paint dries will generate more texture. After the paint is touch-dry, liberally apply an oil-based wood stain, such as Minwax, with a stiff brush. Be sure to follow the grain of the wood, just as if you were staining real wood. After a couple minutes, the stain will begin to soak into the paint. Now, with a reasonably firm touch, press the brush into the paint and stain to create more small ridges and grain. The stain will settle in the valleys, leaving paint exposed on the ridges. Don’t brush over it after this or you’ll mix the paint and stain, defeating the purpose; let your eyes be your guide. As the piece dries, the ridges will level out and leave a flat surface with visible grain. The color of the stain you use will affect the final color of the piece. The darker the stain as compared to the base coat, the greater the contrast. The combinations of base and stain colors are almost limitless, so you can create any type of wood you want. The only drawback to this technique is that it takes a couple of days for the paint/stain mix to dry – patience is the watchword. Once dry, the piece will have a uniform gloss or semigloss that replicates varnished or polished wood. You can use an ultrafine-tip black permanent marker to create knots or to accentuate grain. And, you can overspray with a clear sealant, from flat to high gloss, to achieve the final finish you desire.
Tip submitted by:
Lance BentleyCambridge, New York