Today, we're diving into the delightful world of **decoupage**. Whether you're a seasoned decoupage enthusiast or a curious beginner, you're in for a treat. And guess what? Our trusty companion, **Artificial Intelligence (AI)**, is here to make your decoupage journey smoother than ever.
What Is Decoupage?
For those new to this charming art form, decoupage involves decorating surfaces (think wooden boxes, trays, or even furniture) with cut-out paper designs. These designs can be anything from vintage illustrations to colorful patterns. The magic lies in layering these paper pieces and sealing them with a protective finish. Voilà! You've transformed an ordinary object into a work of art.
The Traditional Process
Traditionally, decoupage required hours of meticulous cutting, gluing, and varnishing. Granny B's nimble fingers would work wonders, creating intricate designs that adorned her home. But times have changed, my dear crafters. Enter AI, stage left!
How AI Makes Decoupage Effortless
1. **AI Image Generators**: Imagine typing a few words—maybe "floral elegance" or "vintage postcards"—and having AI transform those words into stunning visual designs. Well, you don't have to imagine anymore! Tools like **starryai** allow you to input text prompts and watch as AI effortlessly turns them into high-quality images¹. Granny B's favorite tea cup can now boast a custom decoupage design inspired by her favorite garden blooms.
2. **Limitless Possibilities**: AI doesn't play by the rules of scissors and glue. It can generate an infinite variety of designs, from whimsical fairies to geometric wonders. So, whether you're creating greeting cards, jewelry boxes, or wall art, AI ensures you'll never run out of inspiration.
3. **Cost-Effective**: No need for expensive design software or professional artists. AI lets you reduce design costs while maintaining top-notch visuals. Granny B's piggy bank approves!
4. **Consistent Style**: Granny B's decoupage projects now have a consistent visual style. AI models employ techniques like **Stable Diffusion** and **Dall-E** to create highly realistic images¹. No more worrying about mismatched patterns!
Granny B's AI Decoupage Adventure
1. **Prompt Magic**: Granny B opens her AI design generator app with her morning coffee. She types in "nostalgic teacups" and watches as the AI conjures up delicate porcelain cups adorned with vintage roses.
2. **Exploring Styles**: The app offers various artistic styles—watercolor, retro, minimalist. Granny B selects "vintage postcard" style for her next project: a wooden jewelry box.
3. **Custom Creations**: Granny B's imagination runs wild. She inputs snippets of poetry, old love letters, and snippets of her favorite songs. The AI weaves them into a collage of memories—a decoupage masterpiece.
4. **Sharing the Joy**: Granny B shows off her creations at the local craft fair. The crowd marvels at her teacup coasters and jewelry boxes. "AI-assisted magic," she whispers, winking.
Conclusion
So, fellow crafters, embrace the AI revolution! Let it infuse your decoupage projects with creativity, consistency, and boundless possibilities. Granny B's legacy lives on, now with a touch of AI sparkle. Happy crafting! 🌟🎨
Ready to explore AI design generators? Check out [starryai](https://starryai.com/en/ai-design-generator) and let your imagination soar! No credit card required¹.
Remember, every decoupage piece tells a story. What will yours say?
Polka.Paint is the fresh face in the world of decor paints. It caters to everyone—from professional furniture refinishers to novices, hobbyists, and crafters. But what sets it apart? Let’s dive in!
Polka.Paint boasts a water-based, matte finish that exudes elegance. Imagine velvet for your furniture! But here’s the twist: it’s not chalkpaint. Polka.Paint’s extra-fine particles and enhanced ‘flow’ ensure a flat, even finish with minimal brush-stroke marks. It glides like silk!
Say goodbye to endless coats! Polka.Paint packs a higher concentration of pigment, resulting in solid, vibrant color coverage across your finished surface. Fewer coats mean less effort and more wow factor.
Polka.Paint doesn’t shy away—it stretches further than most chalk paints. With up to 14 square meters per liter, you’ll be amazed at how far it goes. More paint, less fuss!
From wood to painted surfaces, glass, steel, plastic, melamine, and even fabric—Polka.Paint adheres beautifully. It’s your go-to for diverse projects.
While Polka.Paint doesn’t need sealing for general indoor decorative use, we’ve got you covered. Introducing Polka.Seal—a high-flowing, tough-wearing protective coating compatible with almost all water-based paints. It’s the cherry on top!
Our beloved Old Fashioned Paint (chalkpaint) isn’t going anywhere. It caters to true artisans, furniture artists, and crafters who crave versatility. Need a paint that adheres to any surface? Check. Want a rich, textured finish? Double-check.
Chalkpaint delivers a consistent matte appearance, perfect for reviving outdated furniture, metallic accents, and fabrics. While it doesn’t self-distress as readily as milk paint, you can manually sand it for that soft, distressed charm.
Polka.Paint and Old Fashioned Paint complement each other. Polka.Paint brings modern flair, while Old Fashioned Paint remains the timeless choice for those intricate, artistic endeavors.
Polka.Paint launches with 15 popular colors that harmonize with our existing Old Fashioned Paint range of over 60 million existing colours.
Expect on-trend shades that excite both new and loyal fans.
Where to Find Polka.Paint? Visit participating stockists or explore our online store at Granny B’s.
Remember, whether you’re a Polka.Paint enthusiast or a chalkpaint aficionado, Granny B’s has you covered. Happy painting! 🎨🪑
]]>Learn more about our range of Pappa G’s #ChalkpaintWax
https://www.grannyb.co.za/collections/chalkpaint-wax-by-pappa-gs
What are Sealers?
Sealers are synthetic products that are made from acrylic, polyurethane, or other polymers. They are applied over chalkpaint with a brush, a roller, or a spray, and they create a hard and durable finish. Sealers can also protect the chalkpaint from UV rays, moisture, and abrasion, and they can have different sheens, such as matte, satin, or glossy.
Some of the advantages of using sealers are:
- They are more resistant to water, heat, stains, and scratches
- They do not require frequent maintenance or reapplication
- They do not yellow over time, and they preserve the original color of the chalkpaint
- They are easier to paint over if needed
Some of the disadvantages of using sealers are:
- They can give a plastic or artificial look to the furniture
- They can crack or peel over time, especially on flexible surfaces
- They can trap moisture and cause the chalkpaint to blister or flake if the paint is not allowed to dry prior to sealing
learn more about our range of durable and eco-friendly sealers
https://www.grannyb.co.za/collections/finishing-lacquer
How to Choose Between Wax and Sealers?
The choice between wax and sealers depends on several factors, such as:
- The type and condition of the furniture
- The desired look and feel of the finish
- The expected use and wear of the furniture
- The personal preference and budget of the user
As a general rule, wax is more suitable for furniture that is not exposed to high traffic, moisture, or heat, and that has a lot of details and textures that can be enhanced by wax. Wax is also more affordable and eco-friendly than sealers.
Sealers are more suitable for furniture that is used frequently, or that is placed in areas with high humidity, temperature, or sunlight, and that has a smooth and even surface that can be protected by sealers. Sealers are also more durable and long-lasting than wax.
Tips and Tricks from Granny B's
Granny B's is a trusted brand that offers a wide range of high-quality products for sealing chalkpaint, such as:
- Papa G's Clear Wax, a natural and easy-to-use wax that gives a soft and velvety finish
- Granny B's Armour, a water-based and non-yellowing sealer that gives a matte and resilient finish
- Granny B's Classic Seal, an oil-based and UV-resistant sealer that gives a satin and glossy finish
Here are some tips and tricks from Granny B's to help you achieve the best results with their products:
- Always clean the furniture with sugar soap or lacquer thinners before applying chalkpaint and sealers
- Apply thin and even coats of chalkpaint and sealers, and let them dry completely between coats
- Use a good quality brush or roller for applying sealers, and a soft cloth or a wax brush for applying wax
- Buff the wax with a clean cloth to remove any excess and to create a smooth and shiny finish
- Use a lint-free cloth to wipe off any dust or dirt from the sealed furniture
- Store the wax and sealers in a cool and dry place, and keep them away from children and pets
Conclusion
Sealing chalkpaint is an important step to ensure the durability and beauty of your furniture. Whether you choose wax or sealers, you can find the best products and advice from Granny B's, the leading supplier of old-fashioned paint products in South Africa. Visit their website or contact them today to learn more about their products and services. www.granny.co.za
A base coat is a layer of paint that is applied to the surface of the furniture before applying your coats of paint. Granny B’s Block and Tackle - Stain-blocking Primer is a great example.
Here are some reasons why using a base coat is a good idea:
1. **Improves Adhesion**: A base of Block and Tackle coat helps the final coat of paint adhere better to the surface of the furniture on especially tricky surfaces like melamine, glass and exceptionally glossy tiles.
This is because the base coat creates a smooth layer of enhanced adhesion for the paint to cling to as well as an even surface for the coat of paint to adhere to.
2. **Prevents Stains**: Block and Tackle can help prevent stains from bleeding through the into your fresh coat of paint. This is especially important if you're painting over a piece of furniture that has been stained, waxed or painted with oil-based products before.
3. **Enhances Durability**: A base coat can help enhance the durability of the final coat of paint. This is because the base coat provides an extra layer of protection against wear and tear and enhanced adhesionz
4. **Improves Coverage**: A base coat can help improve the coverage of the final coat of paint. This is because the base coat helps to fill in any gaps or imperfections in the surface of the furniture, it also ‘helps’ bright/clean colours achieve an optimum level of hiding power, as an example ‘clean’ or ‘bright’ shades often require more coats when being applied to a dark substrate. Applying a white/light basecoat will give optimal coverage and colour in this scenario.
In conclusion, using a base coat before painting your furniture is a good idea because it improves adhesion, prevents stains, enhances durability, and improves coverage. If you're looking for a high-quality base coat for your furniture, Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint offers a range of options that are perfect for your needs.
Try our Block and Tackle stain-blocking primer - which is the most versatile base-coast for a variety of surfaces.
try it today 👇🏼
https://www.grannyb.co.za/products/block-tackle-primer
]]>
Lacquer thinners are a solvent blend specially formulated to thin and clean lacquer-based paints and varnishes. Sugar soap is water-based less damaging to the skin and the environment.
To use sugar soap or lacquer thinners to clean the furniture item, follow these steps:
- Wash the entire item of furniture with sugar soap following the manufacturers direction which usually involves diluting with water. You may need to scrub hard on areas that have stubborn stains or marks.
- Rinse well with clean water and dry thoroughly with a towel.
- If needed, repeat the cleaning process until no residue remains.
- Lacquer thinners requires that you simply use the product out of the bottle with a lint free cloth and then wiping down with a slightly damp cloth.
- Apply your chosen chalk-finish paint according to the instructions on the label. You may need to apply two coats for better coverage and adhesion.
- Let the paint dry completely before applying any wax or sealant if desired.
Some advantages of using sugar soap or lacquer thinners to clean the furniture item are:
- They are effective at removing dirt, wax, grease and grime from various surfaces.
- They do not damage or discolor most types of paints.
- They do not leave any harmful fumes or odors behind.
- They are easy to find and affordable.
Now that we have covered how to clean the furniture item with either sugar soap or lacquer thinners prior to painting them, let's compare their benefits in more detail.
Lacquer thinners have some advantages over sugar soap when it comes to cleaning certain types of paints. For example:
- Lacquer thinners can dissolve oil-based paints better than sugar soap, which can help remove stains such as tar, resins, stains, nicotine from steel, wood and some painted or varnished surfaces
- Fewer steps are needed when using Lacquer Thinners as it tends to evaporate.
However, lacquer thinners also have some disadvantages compared to sugar soap when it comes to cleaning certain types of paints. For example:
- Lacquer thinners are more powerful than sugar soap, which means they can damage plastic and rubber materials if it comes into contact with them.
- Lacquer thinners are flammable than sugar soap, which means they pose a higher risk of fire if they spill over hot surfaces such as stoves or ovens, also making it a risk for storage in unsafe areas.
- Lacquer thinners emit strong odors when they evaporate from surfaces , which means they can create unpleasant smells in your home if you do not ventilate well. They are also know to trigger allergies
Therefore, depending on what type of paint you are using for your furniture project, you may want to choose either sugar soap or lacquer thinner as your cleaner.
In short, sugar soap is the less harmful and more eco-friendly option as it is waterbased as opposed to the solvent based lacquer thinner option
I hope this blog post has been helpful for you.
if you’d like to view the video tutorial and explanation of how to clean your furniture with these two items please click the link to our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/CLnMfkvPn4Q?si=q2Yn7uYjCBfrGA9W
]]>if you are confused by the terminology of glazes vs. sealers, you’re not alone. This problem is partly fueled by confusion created by at least one of the three popular chalkpaint brands in South Africa. Let’s try and clear things up.
A chalk paint sealer and a glaze are both products that can be applied over chalk paint to enhance its appearance and durability. However, they have some differences in their functions and effects. Here are some of the main differences between a chalk paint sealer and a glaze:
- A chalk paint sealer is a clear protective coating that prevents the chalk paint from chipping, scratching, or fading. It also gives the chalk paint a smooth and even finish. A chalk paint sealer can be water-based or oil-based, and it can have different sheens, such as matte, satin, or glossy. A chalk paint sealer is usually applied with a brush or a roller, and it may require multiple coats for full coverage. Examples are Granny B’s Armour and Classic Seal
- A glaze is a semi-transparent, translucent and often tinted product that adds depth, dimension, and character to the chalk paint. It can also create an antique or distressed look by accentuating the details and textures of the furniture. A glaze can have different colors, such as brown, black, or gray, and it can be mixed with water or paint to adjust its consistency and opacity. A glaze is usually applied with a brush or a rag, and it is wiped off with a clean cloth to leave behind the desired amount of color. Examples are Granny B’s Amazing Glaze range and Scumble Glaze product
Some of the advantages and disadvantages of using a chalk paint sealer or a glaze are:
- A chalk paint sealer offers more protection and durability than a glaze, as it forms a hard and resistant layer over the chalk paint. It also preserves the original color and brightness of the chalk paint, and it does not alter its appearance significantly.
- A glaze offers more versatility and creativity than a chalk paint sealer, as it allows you to customize the color and style of your furniture. It also enhances the features and flaws of the furniture, giving it more character and charm. However, a glaze does not provide much protection or durability to the chalk paint, and it may fade or wear off over time. A glaze also requires a topcoat, such as a wax or a liquid sealer, to seal it and prevent it from smudging or staining.
I hope this helps you understand the difference between a chalk paint sealer and a glaze. 😊
shop for CRACKLE
https://www.grannyb.co.za/products/crackle-medium
You can choose any shade of paint that contrasts with the base coat color. For example, if you want to create a cracked look on a white surface, you can use black or dark gray paint as your base or vice versa. It works so well with a Liquid Metal base colour for a stunning decor effect.
- Apply your base coat of paint evenly over the surface you want to crackle.. Let the paint dry completely before applying the next step
- Apply the Crackle over the base coat of paint using a clean brush. Being careful not to apply too much pressure and applying strokes in a single direction I.e no back and forth strokes
- For larger cracks, apply a thicker layer of Crackle Glaze and for smaller cracks, apply a thinner layer.
- Apply your top layer of Old Fashioned Paint once the Crackle is touch-dry. To create square cracks, apply your top coat of paint in a perpendicular angle to direction or against the direction of the strokes you applied the Crackle layer with, for straight cracks use a parallel application going with the direction of the strokes you applied the Crackle with.
Cracks will start to appear within a few minutes. Allow the process to continue until the paint is dry. Seal with any of Granny B’s Liquid Sealers
I hope this tutorial was helpful and fun for you. If you want to see our Granny B's Crackle Glaze video just visit our YouTube channel
https://youtu.be/_ZDYMS8JWXU?si=dbRPK2O1XiQUQoKd
Have fun cracking! 😊
]]>
Watch our YouTube tutorial:
https://youtu.be/Wd1kq0NJV7M?si=8fM0hibsDugSMzLE
That's it! You have created a whitewash paint effect with Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint. I hope you enjoy your project and have fun with it. 😊
]]>
Do you love the idea of transforming your old furniture with a fresh coat of paint, but dread the thought of sanding it first? If so, you’re not alone. Sanding can be a tedious, messy, and time-consuming process that many DIYers would rather avoid.
Fortunately, there are some ways to paint furniture without sanding, and one of them is using Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint.
Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint is a chalk-based paint that has a chalky or old-fashioned finish and is formulated to have incredible adhesion properties. It can be applied to just about any surface without any pre-preparation or sanding required. It works well on ceramics, enamel, wood, plastic, glass, melamine, and even fabric. It is also eco-friendly, low-odor, and lead-free.
In this blog post, we will show you how to paint furniture without sanding using Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint, and share some tips and tricks to achieve a beautiful result. Let’s get started!
Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint offers over 60 old-fashioned inspired colors, 3 chalk-based metallic colors, and 9 real-metal metallic paints called Liquid Metal. You can choose the color and finish that suits your style and the piece of furniture you want to paint. You can also mix and match different colors to create your own custom shade.
If you want a matte finish, you can use the paint as it is. If you want a more glossy or durable finish, you can apply a sealer or wax, over the paint.
Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint also offers a variety of sealers, waxes, and glazes to enhance and protect your painted furniture.
Before you paint your furniture, you need to clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, grease, or wax that might prevent the paint from adhering properly. You can use a mild soap and water solution, a degreaser, or lacquer thinners to wipe down your furniture with a cloth or sponge. Make sure to rinse off any residue and let the furniture dry completely.
Now comes the fun part: painting your furniture. You can use a brush, roller, or spray gun to apply Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint to your furniture. Depending on the color and the coverage you want, you may need two or theee coats of paint. Let the paint dry between coats, and follow the instructions on the label for the drying time.
If you want to create some texture or distressing effects, you can use a damp cloth, sandpaper, or a scraper to remove some of the paint while it is still wet or after it has dried. This will give your furniture a more rustic or vintage look.
If you are happy with the look of your painted furniture, you can skip this step. However, if you want to add some extra protection, shine, or depth to your furniture, you can apply a sealer or wax over the paint. These products will help to seal the paint, prevent scratches, stains, or water damage, and enhance the color and finish of your furniture.
Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint offers a range of sealers, waxes, and glazes that are easy to use and compatible with their paint. You can choose the product that suits your preference and the effect you want to achieve. For example, you can use a clear sealer for a simple and durable finish, a dark wax for an antique look, or a pearl sealer for a shimmering touch.
To apply a sealer or wax, you can use a brush, cloth, or sponge, and follow the instructions on the label for the application and drying time. Make sure to buff the surface with a clean cloth after applying the product to remove any excess and create a smooth and even finish.
Congratulations, you have successfully painted your furniture without sanding using Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint. Now you can enjoy your furniture and admire your work. You can also share your before and after photos with us on social media using the hashtag #grannyb. We would love to see your amazing transformations.
We hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. And if you want to learn more about Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paint and their products, you can visit their website www.grannyb.co.za . Happy painting!
]]>- Use vintage and distressed furniture. One of the main features of shabby chic is the use of furniture that looks old and worn, or that has been painted and distressed to achieve that effect. You can find such furniture in thrift stores, flea markets, garage sales, or online. You can also DIY your own furniture by sanding, painting, and distressing it. Look for pieces that have interesting shapes, details, and textures, such as carved wood, metal, wicker, or rattan.
- Mix and match different patterns and fabrics. Shabby chic is all about creating a cozy and eclectic look, so don't be afraid to mix and match different patterns and fabrics. You can use floral, striped, checked, or polka-dotted fabrics, as well as lace, crochet, or embroidery. You can also layer different fabrics, such as quilts, blankets, throws, or bedspreads, to add warmth and texture. You can also use slipcovers for your sofas and chairs, to give them a new and fresh look.
- Add some feminine and romantic touches. Shabby chic is a style that celebrates femininity and romance, so you can add some elements that reflect that. For example, you can use candles, lanterns, or fairy lights to create a soft and warm lighting. You can also use flowers, either fresh or dried, to add some color and fragrance. You can also use frames, mirrors, or wall art, to add some personality and charm. You can also use some personal items, such as photos, books, or souvenirs, to make the space more meaningful and sentimental.
Use Granny B’s Amazing range of decor paints, waxes, glazes, pastes, stencils, decoupage and more to recreate the perfect Shabby Chic look.
]]>
We revamped an old rocking chair using a Ryobi cordless sprayer together with Polka.Paint’s Tuscan Sun. What a thrill and we did it all during loadshedding.
]]>
1. Prepare the rocking chair for painting. If the chair has any oil, wax, or oil-based varnish on it, you will need to clean it with sugar soap, sunlight dish liquid or lacquer thinners. If the chair is made of dark or yellow wood, such as pine, imbuia, or teak, you will need to apply a stain block to prevent the natural tannin or stain from yellowing your paint. We would suggest Granny B’s Block & Tackle.
You can also sand the chair lightly to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. Fill in any chips or cracks with wood-filler or Embossing Paste from Granny B’s.
2. Choose the right nozzle for your Ryobi cordless sprayer. The sprayer comes with three different nozzles: 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, and 2.2 mm. The smaller the nozzle, the finer the spray and the less paint you will use. The larger the nozzle, the thicker the spray and the more paint you will use. For Polka Paint, which is a water-based, matte finish paint with extra-fine particles, we recommend using the 1.5 mm nozzle for a smooth and even finish. If needed add water to get your paint to the same consistency as melted ice-cream.
3. Fill the paint cup of your Ryobi cordless sprayer with Polka Paint's Tuscan Sun. To be safe we ran the paint through a sieve, in our case we used an old stocking for the job. This will ensure larger particles are prevented from entering the spraying system.
Tuscan Sun is a warm and vibrant yellow color that will brighten up your rocking chair.
The paint cup has a capacity of 1000 ml, which should way more enough to cover your rocking chair with two coats. We suggest starting out with 250ml paint and diluting with 10% water.
4. Spray the rocking chair with Polka Paint's Tuscan Sun. Make sure you have a well-ventilated and protected area to work in. Hold the sprayer about 20 cm away from the chair and move it in a steady and horizontal motion. Adjust the paint flow control and the spray angle to suit your preference and the shape of the chair.
Apply a thin and even coat of paint over the entire chair, and let it dry for about 45 minutes before applying a second coat if needed.
5. Seal the rocking chair with Polka Seal. This is a matte-satin sealer that will protect your paint from water, UV rays, and life's little knocks. It is especially formulated for Polka Paint and has a high-flowing consistency that will not leave any brush marks. You can use the same Ryobi cordless sprayer to apply the sealer, or you can use a silicone bristle brush. Apply a thin and even coat of sealer over the entire chair, and let it dry for about an hour before using it.
Congratulations, you have successfully painted a second hand rocking chair with Polka Paint's Tuscan Sun using a Ryobi cordless sprayer! Enjoy your new and improved rocking chair and show it off to your friends and family. 😊
For the full video tutorial visit this YouTube link
https://youtu.be/JEyb12OvTnk?si=Bn5XUhgKQ-eEQL04
]]>
You might have tried different types of primers, but none of them seem to work for every project. That's why you need Granny B's Block and Tackle, the ultimate multi-purpose primer that can tackle any surface and block any stain.
What is Granny B's Block and Tackle?
Granny B's Block and Tackle is a water-based primer that is compatible with Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint and most quality chalk paints and water-based paint products. It can be used on painted and unpainted wooden surfaces, glass, ceramic, tiles, steel, plastic, as well as metal surfaces.
It is particularly favoured by furniture artists who paint classic and antique items that have been subject to years of oiling, waxing and polishing¹.
Why do you need Granny B's Block and Tackle?
Granny B's Block and Tackle is not just a primer, it is also a stain blocker. It will block at least 95% of the substances that are prone to cause wood bleed, such as tannins, oils, waxes, varnishes, and nicotine.
Wood bleed is a common problem when painting older or darker wood furniture, as the stains seep through the paint and ruin the finish. With Granny B's Block and Tackle, you can prevent this from happening and achieve a flawless result.
https://www.grannyb.co.za/collections/finishing-lacquer.
]]>Plus, it has higher adhesion capabilities, which means you can paint on almost any surface, including wood, glass, steel, plastic, melamine, fabric, and more!
But what makes Polka.Paint really stand out is how it solves the top 5 problems that people experience when painting furniture with chalk paint. Let's take a look at these problems and how Polka.Paint overcomes them:
**Poor adhesion**:
One of the most frustrating problems with chalk paint is that it does not stick well to the surface and can easily scratch or chip off. This can happen if the surface is not cleaned, sanded, or primed before painting, or if the paint is of low quality¹³. Polka.Paint, on the other hand, has excellent adhesion and does not require any prior sanding or pre-prep in most cases. You just need to clean the surface with sugar soap or lacquer thinners and apply the paint directly. Polka.Paint will bond to the surface and resist scratching and chipping.
**Grainy texture**:
Another common problem with chalk paint is that it has a rough or sandy feel to it, which can make the finish look dull and uneven. This can happen if the paint is not mixed well, if the paint is too thick or too thin, or if the paint is contaminated with dust or dirt.
Polka.Paint, on the other hand, has a smooth and velvety texture that glides like silk on the surface. You just need to stir the paint well, adjust the consistency with water, and filter the paint through a strainer before applying it.
Polka.Paint will give you a smooth and even finish that looks and feels great.
**Stains in paint**:
A third problem with chalk paint is that it can have brown or yellow spots on it, which can ruin the look of the furniture. This can happen if the paint is applied over a surface that has oils, tannins, or stains that bleed through the paint, or if the paint is exposed to moisture or sunlight.
Polka.Paint, on the other hand, has a high pigment concentration that covers the stains and prevents them from bleeding through.
You just need to seal the surface with a stain-blocking primer before painting, and protect the paint from moisture and sunlight with a topcoat. Polka.Paint will give you a stain-free and fade-resistant finish that lasts.
**Streaky topcoat finish**:
A fourth problem with chalk paint is that it can have visible lines or stripes on it, which can make the finish look unprofessional and sloppy. This can happen if the topcoat is applied too thickly or too thinly, if the topcoat is not compatible with the paint, or if the topcoat is not applied evenly.
Polka.Paint, on the other hand, has a self-levelling formula that eliminates the streaks and gives you a flat and uniform finish. You just need to apply the topcoat in thin and even coats, use a topcoat that is suitable for Polka.Paint, like Polka.Seal and get the smoothest hand-painted surface around.
**Lap marks and hatbanding**:
A fifth problem with chalk paint is that it can have the visible lines or stripes that appear on the paint surface when the paint is not applied uniformly or when the paint dries too fast. Lap marks are caused by overlapping wet and dry paint, while hatbanding is caused by painting the trim and the wall with different tools or techniques.
Polka.Paint, on the other hand, has a longer drying time that allows you to maintain a wet edge and avoid the lap marks and hatbanding. You just need to avoid painting in direct sunlight or hot weather, use a high-quality paint that has a longer drying time, and apply the paint from one end to the other without stopping.
Polka.Paint will give you a seamless and flawless finish that looks professional.
As you can see, Polka.Paint is the ultimate solution for all your furniture painting needs. It is easy to use, versatile, and delivers a stunning result that you will love.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands on Polka.Paint today and transform your furniture with the new generation of decor paint!
Robin's Egg Blue
If you're looking for a pop of colour in 2024, you might want to consider robin's egg blue, a fresh and cheerful hue that will brighten up any space. Robin's egg blue is a light and airy shade of blue that can create a sense of openness and freshness in your home. It can also add a touch of whimsy and charm to your decor, as it reminds of the sky, the sea, and the spring. Robin's egg blue can be used as a main colour on walls, curtains, or rugs, or as an accent colour on pillows, lamps, or vases. It can also be mixed and matched with other shades of blue, such as cobalt or navy, or with other colours, such as yellow, pink, or coral.
Limewash
Limewash is not exactly a colour, but rather a finish that can transform the look and feel of your walls. Limewash is a type of paint that is made from natural lime and water, and that creates a soft and chalky effect on the surface. Limewash can add texture and character to your walls, as it creates a subtle variation of tones and shades that change with the light. Limewash can also create a rustic and cozy vibe in your home, as it evokes the style of old European cottages and farmhouses. Limewash can be applied in any colour, but the most popular ones for 2024 are white, beige, and grey, as they create a neutral and elegant backdrop for your decor.
try Pappa G’s Pouring Medium - add it to any of our paints and turn your paint into pourable paint, perfect for this trend.
Make pouring even easier when you use our Pouring Split Cup
- Navy blue: This is a color that is becoming more popular for painting furniture, especially dressers, drawers, and small tables. Navy blue is a bit bolder than brown, but not too outrageous or bright. It can be paired with gold accents or other colors to add warmth and contrast to a room¹.
- Bright colors: This is a trend for those who love color and want to make a statement with their furniture. Red, yellow, and green are some of the most popular experimental colors for this year. They can be used to paint small pieces of furniture that become the focal point of the room. However, they need to match the décor and the overall style of the space
- Matte finish: This is a trend that gives furniture a smooth, flawless, and elegant look. Matte finish can be achieved with different types of paint, such as chalk paint, milk paint, or spray paint. It can be used on any color, but dark or black matte painted furniture is especially trendy this year
visit www.grannyb.co.za for all the paints and products you’ll need to keep up with the latest trends.
]]>Cleaning the Surface: Before you begin painting, it's crucial to clean the surface of your furniture thoroughly. This will remove any dirt, grease, or residue that may interfere with the adhesion of the chalk paint. Use a mild soap and water solution or a dedicated furniture cleaner to gently wash the surface. We recommend sugar-soap or lacquer thinners.
Removing Hardware and Upholstery: If your furniture has any hardware or upholstery, it's best to remove them before painting. This will make the painting process easier and ensure that you can reach all areas of the furniture surface.
Sanding the Surface: Only sanding the surface if you wish to smooth out or even out the surface. Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint does not require sanding. Sanding older furniture will increase the risk wood-bleed.
Repairing any Damages: Inspect your furniture for any damages such as scratches, dents, or loose joints. Repairing these damages before painting will not only improve the appearance of your furniture but also ensure its longevity.
Surface Protection and Stain-block: To protect your older furniture from potential wood-bleed into the new coat of paint; it's a good idea to apply a layer of sealant or primer before painting. We recommend Granny B's Block and Tackle - a stainblocking primer
Applying the Chalk Paint: Once your furniture is clean, repaired, and protected, it's time to apply your Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint. Remember to stir the paint thoroughly before starting and apply multiple thin coats for a smooth and even finish.
Sealing and Finishing: After the chalk paint has dried, you can choose to seal and finish your furniture. Granny B's offers several sealing options, including our brush on liquid sealers, Pappa G's traditional #ChalkpaintWax available in clear, black, white, gold, silver, and antique
Enjoy the Results: Once you have completed all the necessary steps, sit back and enjoy the beautiful transformation of your furniture.
Prepping your furniture is crucial for achieving a smooth and long-lasting chalk paint finish. It ensures proper adhesion, repairs any damages, and protects the surface from potential issues like wood-bleed or interfering pigments. Following these steps will help you prepare your furniture for chalk painting and ensure a successful and beautiful finish.
]]>Welcome, creative DIY enthusiasts and eco-conscious decorators!
Today, we have some exciting news to share from Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint. We are thrilled to introduce our newest addition to our paint collection:
Polka Paint! With its rich initial palette of 15 ihues and eco-friendly formula, Polka Paint allows you to transform your furniture and décor into timeless masterpieces. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of Polka Paint and discover how it can bring vintage charm and sustainability to your home.
Reviving the Past:
At Granny B’s, we believe in the power of tradition and the importance of preserving family heirlooms.
With Polka Paint, we enable you to breathe new life into cherished pieces, creating unforgettable stories that span generations.
Imagine transforming an old wooden chest, passed down from your great-grandmother, into a stunning focal point for your living room. With just a few strokes of Polka Paint, it becomes a treasure trove of memories, infused with your own personal touch.
An Abundance of Hues:
Polka Paint offers a magnificent range of colors, inspired by South Africa's vibrant landscapes and the hues of nature. From earthy browns that evoke the warmth of the African sun to serene blues reminiscent of the coastal waters, our palette is as diverse as the tapestry of our nation's breathtaking scenery. With Polka Paint, you can effortlessly infuse your furniture and décor with the colors of your soul, painting stories with every stroke.
What’s even better than our current selection of 15 new shades?
Easily use them in co junction with Granny B’s existing palette of over 60 shades of authentic Chalkpaint!
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable:
While we embrace traditional values, we also prioritize our responsibility to our planet. With Polka Paint, you can indulge in your creative passions while knowing you are making an eco-conscious choice.
Our formula is carefully crafted to be low VOC (volatile organic compounds), ensuring minimal impact on the environment and the air quality of your home.
By choosing Polka Paint, you are not only enhancing your living spaces but also contributing to the well-being of Mother Earth.
The Joy of Creation:
There is something uniquely satisfying about taking on a DIY project and witnessing the transformation unfold before your eyes.
With Polka Paint, you can unleash your inner artist and experience the joy of creation. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting your creative journey, Polka Paint's smooth application and quick-drying formula make it a delight to work with.
Let your imagination run wild as you explore new techniques, such as distressing or layering, to achieve that perfect vintage look or a modern twist on a classic design.
Conclusion:
Polka Paint from Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint is more than just a furniture and décor paint. It is a gateway to the past, a vessel for your creativity, and a testament to your commitment to sustainability.
By choosing Polka Paint, you are not only creating beautiful pieces but also embracing the values of tradition and eco-consciousness.
Turn your home into a haven of timeless charm with Polka Paint, and let your imagination bloom.
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Polka. is the new generation decor paint, for professional furniture refinishers, novices, hobbyists, crafters... in fact it's everyone's paint!
What makes it different? …it’s not chalkpaint!
Polka. is water-based, matte finish paint with extra-fine particles and enhanced 'flow' which means you get the matte finish you love, but with self-levelling capabilities that give you a flat, even finish with fewer brush-stroke marks.
We’ve taken everything you loved about Chalkpaint, and upgraded it into a smoother, easier to apply more versatile application!
In addition to a paint finish that reminds one of velvet, you're getting a higher concentration of pigment, needing fewer coats for coverage, and a solid, even colour across the finished surface.
You'll also find that Polka.Paint stretched further than most chalk paints, giving you up to 14m2 per litre of paint.
With it's higher adhesion capabilities you can paint your favourite surfaces including: Wood, painted & varnished surfaces, glass, steel, plastic, melamine, fabric and more!
Applying Polka. is where we get our catch-phrase "It glides like silk!"
Polka. does not need to be sealed for general indoor decorative applications, but for additional protection from water, UV rays, and life's little knocks we’re proud to bring you our smoothest sealer yet - Polka.Seal; a high flowing, tough-wearing, protective coating compatible with almost all waterbased paints.
Where can I get my hands on Polka. ?
It will be available via participating stockists and shortly after that online via www.grannyb.co.za
Is Polka. replacing the existing range of Granny B's Chalkpaint ?
Definitely not!
Our Old Fashioned Paint (chalkpaint) range is here to stay, and serves an important part of the market. True artisans, furniture artists and many crafters need a paint that can adhere to almost any surface, can offer the widest range of specialist paint techniques, and deliver a rich textured finish. This is where Old Fashioned Paint comes to the fore!
What colours will you offer in Polka. ?
Initially we will launch with a palette of 15 popular colours that will compliment our existing Old Fashioned Paint range. As far as possible we will avoid duplication, but at the same time work to deliver on-trend colours that will excite new and existing Fans of both Old Fashioned Paint as well as Polka.
]]>This means that any surface can become a potential 'chalkboard'.
You can paint just about any surface with the help of our Surface Preparation Guide, glass, tile, stained wood, and even melamine!
I've had so many projects going on at once and this one, took a lot of my time but I am so excited to share this table transformation (finally) with you today! On this project I did a wood bleaching technique.
This table was in horrible shape with burn marks, stains and old old varnish. Bleaching was the best solution to take it back to its natural look. (See before photo!)
You'll need:
How it's done!
Here's what I did step by step and soon I will also post a quick video I made:
TikTok Bleached Table Tutorial
The process is long and tedious but the results are totally worth it. Certain wood reacts differently. Pine is much easier to bleach because it’s already a light wood. The hardwoods take more applications.
1: Clean the surface and allow to dry thoroughly
2: Sand surface. Start with 80 or 100 grit and work your way up to 220 or 240 fine grit.
3: Clean off dust from sanding.
4: Apply even layer of bleach using synthetic brush. Spots will appear if you don’t apply evenly. I used JIK but any household bleach will work. Dry in the sun. The sun helps with the bleaching and it doesn't have to be super warm outside. Apply bleach, then let it dry. Repeat until you are happy with the shade. I did eight coats. This table is oak so it's hardwood, needed more layers. Pine is lighter so may not need as many.
5: Clean surface with 1 part water and 1 part white vinegar to neutralize the bleach.
6: Clean more with just plain water. Keep cleaning until the water is clear or almost clear. Then you know the bleach is off. The water will be yellow at first and get lighter as you rinse and wipe off. Keep refreshing your water after each wipe down so you have clean water. This part seemed to take forever- not going to lie-Lol!
7: After cleaning, allow to completely dry overnight or 24 hours.
8: Sand with 220 or 240, clean off dust from sanding with damp lint free cloth.
9: Seal the surface. I used Armour but Pappa G's #ChalkpaintWax or Waxing Cream also works great too.
I painted the base using Granny B's Hurricane Grey, like the table top the base had it's share of abuse, oil, stains and heaven knows what. To be safe I opted to block any potential stains using a stain-blocking primer.
Learn more about paint prep and using Granny B's products, including getting your hands on the FREE Paint Prep Guide via the following link:
https://www.grannyb.co.za/pages/free-downloads-1gbr
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I personally have difficulty with the last part of that statement, every surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned prior to painting and cleaning is prep!
We've created an easy to use guide for preparing the most commonly chalkpainted surfaces using Granny B's Old Fashioned Paints as a FREE download - CLICK HERE to download.
Some golden rules to keep in mind when painting with water-based paint and especially the ever-popular chalkpaint option:
Cleaning
Always clean the surface well. Particularly older pieces of furniture that have been oiled, waxed or treated with wood care products. These products contain oils that would typically seep into a fresh coat of chalkpaint or newly sealed coat of paint creating yellow, brown or discolored patches.
We recommend a good washing down with a sugar soap solution, or repeated wipe downs using lacquer thinners and a soft natural fiber cloth. Repeat the process until there are no further dark deposits from the furniture onto the cloth.
For more on prepping older items check out our Granny B's Surface Prep Guide
(Available as a FREE download)
Bleeding
Linked to the above point, and occurs when you paint over a previous stained, waxed, oiled, varnished or naturally dark wood. In this case a priming layer will be required.
We really don't suggest that you sand if the surface is even or smooth as quite often it's that layer of varnish holding back a bucket-load of potentially disastrous wood-bleed causing agents.
For more about wood-bleed check out our Granny B's Surface Prep Guide or read this handy article about wood bleed and how to prevent it
Adhesion
This is a contentious issue, just about every chalkpaint claims that their paint will stick to any surface. Obviously I am going to tell you that Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint does an amazing job of sticking to just about aby surface, but truth be told different chalkpaints stick to different surfaces with different levels of adhesion.
Certain glossy surfaces such as smooth plastics, porcelain, tiles, and glass can pose problems. To be safe, and not sorry down the line (avoiding chips forming) we suggest a light de-glossing to increase adhesion. For this purpose your options range from a light sanding through to using a purpose specific priming agent.
Once again we invite you to review our surface preparation guide for more detail on prepping various surfaces, Check out our Granny B's Surface Prep Guide
(Available as a FREE download)
Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint is a proudly South African manufacturer and distributor of chalkpaints, stencils, glazes, waxes, stains, sealers, decoupage tissue, transfers and other decor crafting media and accessories
Get in touch via:
hello@grannyb.co.za
www.grannyb.co.za
Tel: +27(0)11 7080139
]]>Our Gilder's Pastes are a richly pigmented wax based medium designed to add subtle or striking effects to your painted project. Originally, gilder's pastes were developed with the intention of creating a faux metallic effect on anything from painted wooden items, metal trim, art works or anything that needed a little shine.
Today these paste options have expanded to include shades that resemble copper patina, slate, or even natural elements such us certain types of wood.
Our range of Pappa G's Gilder's Pastes incorporate all of these options, and you'll find they are of a solid wax consistency that dries especially quickly so that you can carry on with your project and complete it on time.
As an aside; due to the quicker drying properties of the product, they do sometimes dry-out in the container, but that is easily remedied by adding a teaspoon or two or mineral turpentine.
This little project shows how we took a 3D printed plastic bell, painted it with Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint and added some Rich Gold - Pappa G's Gilder's Paste to give it a real aged glory look.
Step 1
Take any object that you'd like to up-cycle, and clean the surface well, you can clean using sugar-soap, or even lacquer thinners and wipe the surface really well. Allow to dry before you paint.
Step 2
Paint with your choice of Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint. In this case we chose
Step 3
Once you have painted your item to your liking let the final coat dry for an hour or two. Then grab your Pappa G's Gilder's Paste, here we used Rich Gold
Take a small brush, apply some of your Gilder's Paste to the tip and and lightly brush across the item, repeatedly doing so across the releif features of the item
Since this item is purely decorative and we want to preserve a full matt finish, no sealer is applied. If you do wnat to seal over your Gilder's Paste, allow 72 hours for curing and then seal. Gilder's Paste can also be used on top of sealer.
So having shown you how easy it is to use Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint on almost any surface including plastic, you can take your creative talents a step further by adding special and remarkably effective details to your project using our range of Pappa G's Gilder's Paste.
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Eldaleen Hugo is no stranger to the world of media, decor and just all-round good taste. We're proud to be associated with her unique style of furniture revival, and we just love the makeovers she shares on a regular basis via Vrouekeur magazine.
This cabinet makeover is one of my favourites!
The trick to achieving this look is to get yourself a cabinet, chest of drawers, or similar item that's in decent shape, and the right size for it's intended room.
Before
In this case Eldaleen found the perfect piece with great 'bones' and needed an update.
To prep, remove the drawers, take off the knobs and remove all the loose paint with a scraper if needed. Give the cabinet a good clean using sugar soap or wipe down with thinners, and let it dry. There is no need to sand or prime.
Begin painting, but be sure to mask-off the side of the drawers that slide into the cabinet, as well as the contact surface inside the cabinet. You don't want to paint these areas as it may cause the drawers to get stuck. It's also a good idea to mark the position of the drawers vs. where they fit into the cabinet so that when you replace them, you put them back in the right slot. Not all drawers are identical.
It's good idea to use this article as inspiration and plan the look you want to achieve in advance, choose your colours, patterns and sketch them out, making sure the theme of each drawer is noted down nextto the drawer number.
Here's the plan Eldaleen used:
As you can see each drawer has a unique number, and the technique, stencil and colour is listed in the chart below:
Once you've perfected the look you are after, you can seal with our brush on sealers, Classic Seal for a sating finish, that's perfect for general household traffic, or use Armour for heavier duty protection that's available in gloss or matte.
We also offer the range of Pappa G's #ChalkpaintWax and they are available in Clear, Dark, Black, White and Metallic. I personally love the #ChalkpaintWax because of it's 'old-school' look and feel and the added technique options you can apply if you're a more advanced painter,
We're certain that this little article has inspired you, and if you're a first time Granny B's user or would like to try our products, use the following discount code when you shop online for a 15% once-off discount on ALL our products.
Code: TryMe
Website: www.grannyb.co.za
Be sure to share this tutorial with Friends and Family.
For further info, and stockist inquiries, please email us on hello@grannyb.co,za
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We're busy setting up our new showroom, and I wanted to create a sample board that shows off the aspects of wood and Unicorn Spit that I find most appealing. To me, the beauty of wood grain is something that should be highlighted at any opportunity.
Shosugiban is an ancient Japanese technique used to bring out the grain of a piece of wood. It involves burning the wood to a char with a blow torch, so naturally it appeals to me!
This is what it needs to get to before your find it's beauty.
The first step is to find yourself a piece of wood that already has a defined grain. Grab a gas torch, and a wire brush.
I was lucky enough to find this scrap piece to try out this technique, but to be honest, had I known just how beautiful it would come out, I would have found a piece that could have served as a platter board or even big enough to serve as something that would look good against a wall.
You now need to burn the surface of the wood to an absolute char, even it starts to crack a little that's fine.
Once properly charred, start scrubbing the char away with your wire brush, eventually the only dark elements of the wood will be the grain.
Now burn it all over again, and scrub it clean once again. Your grain should really pop now!
My next move was to choose some of the bright my favourite brights from my Unicorn Spit collection, Original colours.
To be honest I can't remember which I used but that's the thing about Unicorn Spit, just choose the colours that speak to you, you can't make a mistake!
Unicorn SPiT is available in 10 original colours, and can be diluted by more than 100% for various applications.
Undiluted it's a paint with high levels of pigmentation - once you start diluting it becomes a stain, glaze, dye, and even a water-colour medium. I even use it to tint my chalkpaint when experimenting with new colours.
For this project I just put a few drops onto the wood using a single colour at a time and used my fingers to run the colour along the grain. I used a spary bottle and sprayed a little water to diliute the Spit slightly and to facililtate easier blending.
Just look at those colours !
Then...I wanted to add a little bling to the mix, so I pulled out my Unicorn Spit Sparkling!
Sparkling works best when you use a Sparkling colour over any corresponding colours. For example, use Saphire Swift (blue sparkling) over any of your blues. The Sparkling colours are translucent, and allow the base colour to come through whilst adding that touch of bling.
Once again, just a few drops of Sparkling over the corresponding base colour of Original Unicorn Spit. (obviously I waited for the base colours to dry before adding my Sparkling :) ). Again just use your fingers to run over the grain, Sparkling Spit is really forgiving and even going outside of the lines looks so good!
Once my Spit was dry, I taped around the edges of the wooden board to create a 'dam'.
The picture below shows an example of the general idea, I forgot to takes pics of this step.
I used duct tape, but brown packaging tape may work better since it would be able to seal off any of the grooves, cracks and crevices that are found on the edge of the wood, and prevent the resin running out the sides.
For the resin, I used a 1:1 mix ratio of craft resin that is easily available at most specialist art and craft stores.
Follow the instructions that come with the product and be sure to wear latex gloves. This stuff is sticky and very hard to remove.
In my case I mixed the product, stirring really well and then I let it stand for a few minutes to let as many of the air bubbles dissipate as possible. I made sure my piece of wood was on a level surface and as safe from dust, pet hair or anything else that may settle into resin as it dries.
Once you have poured the resin, it's going to be almost impossible to move the project to a new location.
Once poured; and where air bubbles appear, lightly go over them using your gas flame and they will quickly disappear. You may need to do this repeatedly, as the resin seeps into the wood, bubbles will form.
I then left my project in peace, and let it cure overnight, after which i carefully removed the tape, and voila....a beautiful shiny glass-like surface!
Unicorn Spit, Sparkle SPit and Granny B's Products are available via www.grannyb.co.za and particpating stockists that can be located via the same website.
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Where the rest of the market offers at best an average of 10m2 per litre, Granny B's give you an average of 14m2 - that's a whole lot more coverage for your hard-earned money.
]]>In the Chalkpaint you will hear each manufacturer telling you why their paint is so much better than the rest, so you hear a lot of talk and you see a lot of flashy marketing, subject to smoke and mirrors etc. etc.
What we've always done, is let our Fans do the talking for us.
Our 125ml Challenge (which we plan to run each year) put our product to the test.
We knew our Fans would be able to get a lot done with a single 125ml of Granny B's Paint, but by judging some of the entries - even we were shocked!
The rules were simple, choose a colour and paint any items you choose, but you cannot dilute the paint - we want to see just how far the actual users of the product can make ia single 125ml stretch.
We know that even a beginner will beautifully paint an old wooden chair, and to be able 'make-over' a treasured item for less than R100 (inc. paint and sealer) is a great proposition for anyone in this economy.
On average chalkpaint variants offer an average coverage of 10m2; Granny B's offers you an average 14m2 per Litre
If you have never tried our paint and want to put it to the test for yourself - here's a little discount for you, just head over to our online store, add some paint to your cart, and when you enter the following code at check-out - we'll give you 10% off.
Code: Stretch
www.grannyb.co.za
Below are some of the winning pics from last year's competition.
For a full set of images and so many more project ideas, please join our group on Facebook, just search for; 'Granny B's Painting Studio' to see what our fans are up to!
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The great thing about the Granny B Colour Palette, apart from the gorgeous colours, is the fact that the colours, from an artist’s perspective is so pure that you can mix any colour your heart desire. With the 35 colours, you are already spoiled for choice but we often get an enquiry as to how to mix the amazing indigo blue that appears in fine china.
We recently created a display frame for a heirloom china collection and needed that exact blue – so of course we have to share this formula with you!!
We wanted a slightly darker blue, leaning more towards delft than the blue in chinese ginger jars.
Here’s How:
We used Midnight Blue, Blueberry Pie and Purple Reign to mix this blue. (should you want the lighter ginger jar blue then omit the Midnight Blue).
We started with about a teaspoon of midnight blue already in a jar, a tablespoon and a half of Blueberry Pie and a whole 50ml jar of Purple Reign.
We mixed it very thoroughly with an ice-cream stick.
We tested the blue by letting it dry on paper and on the ice-cream stick. The reason for this is that the paint dries slightly darker than the colour it is when it is wet.
Voila! You have a gorgeous Delft Blue.
Here we added some gorgeous raised stenciling using our Embossing Paste and the perfect pattern for our frame.
CREATE A MANDALA
This is the perfect guide to get you started with dot-painting, and not having to make an investment in expensive tools or material.
For your canvas, use any spare flat board, old scratched LP, plates, coasters... anything really, just coat it with a layer or two of Granny B's Black Betty to prepare your canvas for the masterpiece you are about to create!
Ask anyone who has attended one of our Mandala workshops! It’s the most relaxing thing that you can do with Granny B’s Old Fashioned Paints.
They were initially drawn by Asia as a form of mindfulness practice or meditation and date from the 4th Century to present. Doing a Dot Art Mandala is a way to tap completely into your right brain and REALLY spark your creativity!
We like to do our projects with tools that are readily available. We found that for the different size dots from large to smallest the following items commonly available around a crafter's room are simply great:
Wet wipes work great for cleaning your tools as its not necessary to clean it the way you clean a brush. You just wipe it off!
There are loads and loads of resources available on the internet through Google, Pinterest and even YouTube, just search with phrases like 'dot art', 'dot mandala', 'dot painting' etc.
For more fantastic tutorials be sure to visit The Arty Craft Club on Facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/theartycraftyclub/
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That's the feeling you get when you paint with Granny B's Old Fashioned Paints.
One of the projects I am often asked for advice about is painting fabric, and more specifically upholstery. The short answer is 'yes, absolutely it can be painted with Granny B's'. There are however a few steps involved, and a warning that all fabric behaves differently, as well as a the fact that some fabric of surfaces should just not be attempted by any paint.
Firstly, fabric that should never be attempted: velvet, also suede leather, that won't turn out looking great as it tends to leave you with a clumpy looking and feeling surface. As for the rest, in most cases you'll get a surprisingly beautiful result if you follow the steps set out below.
The first thing you want to do before you start; is to get hold of a spare piece of fabric that's identical or as close to the fabric you want to paint. You'll want to do a practice run on this fabric to make sure it gives you the look you are after before you tackle your project.
A few key things you need to know about painting fabric with chalk-finish paint in general; the first being that whilst the paint wont necessarily appear to need sealing, it is better to seal as it allows you the protection you need when the surface needs a gentle wipe down to keep it looking clean and as good as it looked the day you painted it.
Also, since you want the paint to penetrate into the fibers of the fabric; you will want to paint onto a damp surface, the water facilitates this bonding and pigment transfer from the paint to the fabric.
So, let's get down to it!
You'll need; Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint, a water spray-bottle, a scrubbing brush, Granny B's Waxing Cream, a soft cloth and your favourite paint-brush.
Step 1
Ensure your surface is free of any loose threads, has been wiped down and is ready to be painted. Spray the surface with your water spray bottle and get the surface nice and damp.
Step 2
Mix your Granny B's paint with about 30% water (ensure it's mixed well), and begin painting over the damp surface. Always make sure the surface you are painting onto is damp, spray again if needed.
The diluted paint, onto the damp surface facilitates a deeper penetration of the paint and pigment into the fiber of the fabric.
(this pic courtesy of Ellen Foord)
Step 3
Between each layer and after having dried for an hour, you can use your scrubbing brush to really work your paint into the fabric by scrubbing the surface, or if you prefer a slightly smoother finish, sand lightly between layers with medium grit sandpaper.
Step 4
Repeat steps 1 through 3 as needed to ensure coverage, in most cases only one or two coats are needed. Once you are satisfied with your final layer, you can now seal with Granny B's Clear Waxing Cream
Step 5
Apply your Clear Waxing Cream using a soft cloth and applying in circular motions.A second application can be applied after about 4 hours. Clear Waxing Cream will give you a natural soft and supple finish which won't crack, is water resistant and is easy to wipe down with a damp cloth to keep your item clean.
All of our products can be found at your favourite Granny B's Stockist, if it's not in stock, just ask them to order it for you or shop online. For a list of our products, stockists and ordering info, please visit www.grannyb.co.za
Please be sure to share your projects with us via Facebook, or email us at hello@grannyb.co.za
We'd like to thank our Fans and Stockist Family for contributing their projects and pics to be included in this post: Alicia's Atelier, The Vintage Corner, 360 Designs.
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Some of these images may be something you have seen on the web, Pinterest, Instagram, a family photo, or even something out of a magazine.
There are dozens of ways to add transfers to painted furniture, ranging from traditional methods, involving, transfer gels, Mod Podge, Granny B's Armour, tracing, acetone, wax paper, carbon paper...you name it!
If you're wanting to learn more about DIY transfer methods, check out this site:
https://thegraphicsfairy.com/12-easy-image-transfer-techniques/
One of the most exciting developments has occurred in that space where creativity and technology collide!
Waterslide Transfers or decals have been around for a very long time, I still remember building my first model plane and going through the same process as today's 'decor' waterslide transfers. As home printers have become more and more affordable, many households now have access to their own laser printers and quite often colour units.
It has become possible to print virtually any image onto specialized, yet relatively inexpensive decal paper in your own home, or to visit your nearest copy shop and have them photocopy a colour image onto your paper.
A pack of 10 DIY Laser Printer Waterslide blank A4 sheets will cost you from about R25 a sheet to R35 a sheet depending on the quality you prefer. If you add the cost of printing it is quite feasible to produce your own waterslide decals on your laser printer for around R30 to R40. When you compare this cost to the locally produced transfers (ranging in price from about R65 to R180)...the saving is considerable and you get to create your own designs without infringing on copyright (since you would be using it for personal use and not capital gain).
Shop for your waterslide blanks at:
In terms of pre-printed locally produced offerings, as already mentioned these will start at around R65 and go up to R180. They do have the advantage of coming in A3 sizes in certain instances. However aside from the higher price, waterslide technology as a general statement is not the easiest application, and quite often you will see classes which come with a charge where you need to be taught to apply the product, obviously practice makes perfect and after a few tries (or x number of 'flops' x R65) - you may get their on your own and master it at some expense.
In my personal opinion the present pre-made offering are not vastly different or better than what can be achieved in your home using DIY blank paper or even some of the traditional transfer methods, it's also a lot cheaper, does not not infringe on copyright laws.
How do you get the images onto the DIY waterslide paper?
Image sources are all around us, photos, the web, Facebook etc. There are some legal and privacy limitations to what you can use and how you use it, but generally, if it's for your own use and not for resale, you can in most cases apply that image...then again I am sure the Transfer Police Won't be searching your home for downloaded images.
The GREAT NEWS is..number of FREE image resources for transfers is staggering, just take a look at the beautiful images available for your download at
The Graphics Fairy:
Once you have your image, you just arrange them on a programme like Power Point or even MS Paint (which comes Free with Windows), and hit 'Print'
Transferring the decal to your item is where the work comes in.
1) Trim your image as close to the outline as you can
2) Take your image and soak briefly let the paper curl and then settle
3) Test the edge of the transfer to see if the image is shifting
4) Quickly apply a coat of water onto the surface you are wanting to transfer to with your brush to help you move the transfer around
5) Remove your transfer - be careful not to leave it too long...as once the image separates from the paper...it's almost impossible to get it back on and it usually shrivels-up
6) Now position the edge of your transfer at the position you want it to rest and gently slide the transfer from that edge, slowly removing the backing sheet positioning as you go, and before it gets too dry
7) Gently blot out any creases with some tissue paper and ensure a smooth resting position
8) Allow an hour or so to dry and let all of the water evaporate before sealing the surface with Granny B's Classic Seal or Armour
NB: It is often easier to work the transfer into position if you are applying to a sealed surface. I have personally done it on a painted surface before sealing, and it makes it slightly more tricky, but still doable with practice.
Whichever process your prefer, and whichever way you do it...transfers are fun, easy to do (with practice) and shouldn't cost you an arm or a leg!
Using waterslide DIY paper, I made a few decorative doorknobs at a total cost of R8 including the knob and the paint!
As a Consumer Champion we want to make certain that our customers are never exploited, have access to the latest, and most enjoyable techniques without infringing on any artists original work. DIY image transfers are intended for your personal enjoyment and the knowledge shared here is not intended to be used for commercial purposes.
If you are after something really unique, easy to use, of a high quality, that will make your furniture project, mirror, window, glass, really stand-out from the crowd...and on a large scale...watch out for our upcoming launch of designer quality furniture transfers from Prima...
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It is also known that bleeding occurs mainly within older pieces that are repainted with water based products. In some cases the bleeding only appears after sealing or waxing.
This article will explain the cause, how to avoid it and how to fix it when it happens.
(pic courtesy of SalvagedInspirations.com)
1. Tannins
Tannins are the collective name for the acidic chemicals held within the sap of the wood. These are left behind as the water evaporates once the water evaporates after the wood has been cut. The name comes from the leather tanning industry which used oak, and it's bark to tan leather. It also happens to be the oaky flavour you get from maturing wine in oak barrels.
Different woods have different colour tannins, pine is yellow, imbuia gives off a brown, other woods create and orange.
You'll find that even after cleaning well with sugar-soap, in certain cases bleeding may still occur, since you have only managed to clean off the first few mm of the wood, but tannins occur throughout the wood, so bleeding may present itself at a later stage.
Most older items have been treated and preserved with various furniture oils. teak oil in particular is a common furniture preserver and does a great job of penetrating through the wood. Cleaning solvents such as Mr.Min are also popular and create their own set of challenges. Some items have been stained with heavy oil-based stains used to darken the wood.
These will pose similar and even more extreme bleeding than natural tannins.
In this example, 30 odd year old wooden doors were painted and sealed, soon after bleeding presented itself. The wood had been treated for years with teak and linseed oil.
3. Prevention
The golden rule is to always clean these items well, use sugar-soap and make sure the piece is well cleaned. If the item has been waxed; use methylated spirits or medical alcohol and a rag and strip the wax first and then clean the item. If it's previously been varnished, it must cases the advice is not to sand, unless the varnish is highly solvent and reacts with the water-based product, causing non-adhesion or paint peeling. In the case of high-gloss or veneered surfaces, simply de-gloss the surface using an abrasion pad of light-grit sandpaper.
If the item has an oil-based varnish or paint, use Zinnser 123 Stain block. Follow the directions on the product.
The alternative is Armour, this is Granny B's polyurethane water-based tough-coat sealer. Cover your item in two coats of Armour, allow a curing time of 72 hours. Paint with your Granny B's Old Fashioned Paints and allow the final coat to cure for at least 8 hours. After which you can seal with your Armour again.
The above steps will address 95% of the bleeding cases, but it must be noted that each case is different, and some cases may be impacted by multiple elements at once such as the tannin, having been oiled, stained and waxed.
4. The cure
So...you've painted your item, it looks great until you seal...almost moments later it shows up with brown, yellow or even orange streaks...yip it's bleeding. First thing to remember....it is NOT THE PAINT, it's NOT THE SEALER. Sometimes the sealer seems to cause this reaction, but it's not the case, the sealer is usually a highly water-based deep-penetrating liquid, which passed through the spaces in between the paint molecules, and allows the underlying tanning or stain to 'float' to the surface.
At this point don't panic. Let the sealer dry, apply two coats of Granny B's Armour, and let this cure for 72 hours. Once cured, paint with Granny B's Old Fashioned Paints, and allow the final coat to cure for at least 8 hours before sealing as normal again.
Even this potentially troublesome kitchen was beautifully painted (by Marlize Greyvenstein) using Granny B's Old Fashioned Paint products, and applying the method of sealing first.
All products are available at www.grannyb.co.za
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Granny B's Painting Studio
email: hello@grannyb.co.za
Tel: 011 7080139
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