Tuesday 19 January 2016

Bluestone House™ Silky vs Chalky

Silky Patina & Chalky Patina

What's the Difference ? 

Chalky Patina is Perfect for that 

French Country Vintage Distressed look that is so desired !!! 


Bluestone House™"Chalky Patina Paint" is the Best ! I know because I created it, after trying many different formulas. This unique product is not like anything else !
 
Chalky Patina has natural Canadian chalk minerals added to give you...
  • a matte chalk- like finish
  • incredible adhesion
  • amazing durability
  • no priming - no stripping - no pre-sanding
  • ultimate coverage
  • ultra low VOC's
  • can be sand distressed or wet distressed
  • virtually no smell 
  • 100% acrylic water-based paint  with Chalk !
  • soap & water clean up
  • little to no brush marks when drying
  • quick drying - re-coat the same day !
  • Canadian !!!
  • indoor / outdoor 
Chalky Patina usually covers in one coat - the second, if you choose to do one, is a light quick coat. Whites usually require 2 coats. 
The most amazing part about this wonderful paint is that because of the chalk, the finish is slightly rough,  and when sanded to smooth out the finish and/ or distressed, the paint crumbles away instead of scratching the piece, hence giving you a time worn appearance rather than a sanded one. 
Chalky needs to be lightly sanded to give you a smooth finish before using a topcoat. I always use our Signature Bluestone House™ Beeswax, as I find it is the best finish for durability and sheen. 

Silky Patina is Perfect for that French Country clean look !!!

Silky Patina is just that ! Goes on like with a silky smooth finish.
  • incredible adhesion to unfinished pieces
  • amazing durability 
  • no priming - no stripping
  • ultimate coverage
  • ultra low VOC's
  • virtually no smell 
  • 100% acrylic water-based paint
  • soap & water clean up
  • little to no brush marks when drying
  • can be rolled
  • quick drying - re-coat the same day !
  • can be wet distressed
  • Canadian !!!
  • indoor / outdoor 

Silky Patina is amazing on unfinished or porous pieces, but does require some pre-sanding on previously painted surfaces. Just a light scuff - NO STRIPPING.  Silky has no chalk in it at all ! It goes on very smooth and can be rolled as well. Silky requires a cure time. That means when you have finished your project & are happy with it - do not put anything on it or use it for a few days. Although it does require a cure time, it does not require a topcoat ! The finish has a lovely sheen comparable to an eggshell finish. Having said that, a clear varnish can be applied for extra protection. 
I always use our Signature Bluestone House™ Beeswax, as I find it is the best finish for durability and sheen.  

Which one should I use? 
That is totally up to you depending on the final outcome you are trying to achieve, how much use it will get & how effort you are willing to give.
Which one is better ? 
They are two entirely different products with different outcomes, the question is which one is better for you ? 

Are the colours the same ?
The colours are the same for both the Silky & Chalky although because one is matte and one has a sheen, they will catch the light differently and may look a little different.

please contact me if you have any questions 
info@bluestonehouse.ca

Thanks you
Happy Painting !!!


Directions for Extra Bond 101

EXTRA-BOND

Bluestone House™ Extra-Bond is a concentrated, water-based polymer emulsion. When added to Milk Paint it gives the paint a greater adhesion to non-porous or previously finished surfaces. It is environmentally safe and non-toxic, hypo-allergenic, low odour and VOC free !

Application

Extra-Bond is mixed with Milk Paint before painting on surfaces such as glass, baked enamel, primed metal, oil or latex painted, varnished, shellacked or polyurethaned surfaces. The dead flat, uneven grainy look is quite distinctive.
Two rules should always be followed in the application of Milk paint with Extra-Bond, or any finish for that matter:
1) Make sure the piece is clean.
2) Test your milk paint & extra bond mixture on a scrap piece of the same piece of material.
To use Extra-Bond, first mix the milk paint with water according to the directions in "Simple to use" mixing section, then add an equal amount of Extra-Bond, and stir the two liquids together. You may use as little as 1 part EB to 2 parts MP, but better adhesion may be achieved by using equal parts.
If a second coat of Milk Paint is desired, wait 2 hrs before re-coating. Extra-Bond is not required in the second coat.
Clean up with water. Store at room temperature.
DO NOT FREEZE !

ADVANTAGES !!!

  • Easy to use
  • Environmentally safe
  • Non-toxic & VOC free
  • Soap & water clean up
  • Non-flammable
  • No odour when dry
  • Fast Drying
  • Long shelf life

WARNING FOR REMOVING LEAD PAINT
If you scrape, sand or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN, PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD AVOID EXPOSURE.
Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-880-424-LEAD or log on to www.pa.gob/lead

Disclaimer
Since the use of our products is not under our direct supervision, we cannot guarantee any results of use beyond our control, even though the directions were followed.
Before using, user shall determine the suitability of the product for his/her intended use and user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith.

Bluestone House™
P.O. Box 10071 Meadowlands
Ancaster, Ontario  L9K 1P2

Directions for Antique Crackle 101

ANTIQUE CRACKLE

Bluestone House™ Antique Crackle is a natural liquid gelatin. Using ANTIQUE CRACKLE is an easy way to achieve a weathered or "alligator" look on furniture, picture frames, signs, etc.
It is biodegradable and non-toxic, brushes on easily and dries to a clear satin finish.


Application

Antique Crackle can be used with Bluestone House™ Chalk or Milk paint. It is applied over a dried newly painted surface before the final coat and causes this final coat of paint to crackle.
Apply Bluestone House™ Antique Crackle in a generous even coat. If painting a vertical surface use less to avoid sagging. Crackle can be applied with a brush, sponge or roller - all producing different crackle effects.
Antique Crackle will flow easier if the container is warmed slightly by placing in a tub of hot water.
After drying, (2-3hrs) flow the final coat of paint over the crackle with full brush strokes in one direction. Use enough paint so that you are not going back over the same place twice. This could disturb the crackle that begins. A thin layer of paint will produce small cracks. Thicker paint will give you larger cracks. If the paint is too thick or too thin  cracks may not appear at all. With a little practice you can become proficient in a short time !
To protect you masterpiece, finish it with Bluestone House™ Beeswax !

ADVANTAGES !!!


  • Easy to use
  • Use with Chalk or Milk paint
  • Environmentally safe
  • Non-toxic & VOC free
  • Fast Drying
  • Soap & water clean up
  • Non-flammable
  • No odour when dry
  • Fast Drying
  • Long shelf life
  • Dries clear
  • Thin with water

WARNING FOR REMOVING LEAD PAINT
If you scrape, sand or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN, PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD AVOID EXPOSURE.
Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-880-424-LEAD or log on to www.pa.gob/lead

Disclaimer
Since the use of our products is not under our direct supervision, we cannot guarantee any results of use beyond our control, even though the directions were followed.
Before using, user shall determine the suitability of the product for his/her intended use and user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith.

Bluestone House™
P.O. Box 10071 Meadowlands
Ancaster, Ontario  L9K 1P2


Monday 18 January 2016

Directions for Waxing 101

Taking Your Furniture From "Ignored to Adored"

So you are ready to add your wax !!!

Once you have painted your piece and it is completely dry, sanded and distressed to a smooth finish, usually the same day with Bluestone House™ Chalky Patina, or after cure period with Bluestone House™ Silky Patina, and you are totally happy with your piece, you are ready to wax !

Our Exclusive blend of Natural Beeswax & Orange Oil is second to none !
Made by a local Beekeeper for Bluestone House™
This is a hard wax, furniture polish, that is also FOOD SAFE !!!


I recommend this to everyone - no-matter what you are finishing ! It has a beautiful an erratic sheen that simulates the uneven sheen of an authentic antique.
It's durability is second to none !
And the smell is dreamy !!! honey & orange ! WOW !

Bluestone House™ also offers a variety of Antique waxes, to enhance your patina.
They are all soft waxes and are easily applied with a cloth.

We recommend you wax your piece first with our Ultimate Exclusive Hard Natural Beeswax, for exceptional durability.

The hard wax is applied using our waxing brush or our palm waxer.


Apply only on a smoothed out surface - so be sure to lightly sand your "Chalky Patina" first.
Open your wax and place the bristles of the brush on the hard wax. In a circular motion, load up your brush with wax - apply pressure but not so much that you are taking out chunks of wax, but enough that the brush feels tacky. Then, in a circular motion , spread the wax all over the surface of your piece. You piece should feel tacky all over.

TIP: If you look at it on an angle in the light, you can see if you have been missed spots.

Once you have applied the wax, one section at a time, - buff it to a ultimate sheen, using a clean buffing cloth. I like to buff in a circular motion as well. It may not be an even sheen but that's what we love about our antique look.
OUTSTANDING !!!

If you would like to add a little more patina, use one of our lovely soft waxes.


White Wash - leaves a white beach-like  finish - clean & fun !
Coffee - dark brown, leaves a warm antique finish like that of old tobacco stains.
Clear Soft - clear - use this one in place of our hard beeswax for an easier application.
Carbon - dark grey black, an exceptional choice for cooler combinations.

Dab you cloth into the wax, using your index finger. Scoop out a little - very little, you can always grab more. In a circular motion swirl your antique wax on, covering the section you are working on. let it sit for a few minutes to dry a little, then buff the wax to work it in leaving a lovely finish and sheen with a little colour to enhance the patina.

The antique waxes may also be used alone - without applying the beeswax first - it will not be as durable and you will use more of the antique wax - but it will give you more patina. There is no right or wrong - just do it until you love it !

NOW FOR SOMETHING REALLY SPECIAL !!!
New to our line-up is ...
Luster Wax !!!

Goldenrod 


 Tinsel
Apply this the same way as the Antique waxes above. We recommend you wax your piece first with our Ultimate Exclusive Hard Natural Beeswax, for exceptional durability. as always !

 WARNING !!!    VERY ADDICTIVE !!!

If this happens - contact a friend and go garage saleing to find more pieces to paint !!!

Directions for Chalky Patina Painting 101

Taking Your Furniture From "Ignored to Adored"

is what Chalky Patina Paint will do !
So get your apron on & roll up your sleeves


Step 1 - Select your piece ! - remove all knobs, hinges and/or handles

Step 2 - Make sure it’s clean. I like to clean with vinegar & water  but if it’s really old and gummy - mineral spirits works well.  If it’s untreated wood - just dust free is all you need to do.

Step 3 - Although sanding is not always required - with shiny surfaces I always give it a quick scuff so to speak, with a sanding block, to increase adhesion.

Always sand in a well ventilated area !

Step 4 - After shaking you paint well, then stir, use your Bluestone House™ natural bristle chalking brush to apply your paint. Some colours may require a second coat.

Step 5 - Give your piece a light sand all over to smooth out the finish.

Always sand in a well ventilated area !

You may be happy with the look at this point - if so you're all done ! You can now add your hardware back on.

If you like the French Country distressed look, that is so desired, sand your piece lightly around the edges.

You cannot make a mistake ! 
If you sand too much, add some more paint. Just sand to your desired look !

Step 6 -For added protection apply the Bluestone House™ Natural Beeswax with a waxing brush in a circular motion then,using a clean rag, buff to a shine, or Silky Satin Interior Clear Topcoat can be brushed on.
See bluestonehouse.blogspot.ca or bluestonehouse.ca for inspirational pics.

Bluestone House™ Paints & Topcoats are
100% water based acrylic - ultra low VOC's and soap & water clean up !!!

Special Notes :
If you are painting a piece of furniture that is already painted, remove any old or flaking paint. Do this in a well ventilated area !
If you want to be sure that the knots or tannin in the wood do not bleed through - use a blocking primer. Personally I like it when the tannin & knots bleed throughout ! - it adds to the Patina of the piece !



 WARNING !!!    VERY ADDICTIVE !!!

If this happens - contact a friend and go garage saleing to find more pieces to paint !!!


WARNING FOR REMOVING LEAD PAINT
If you scrape, sand or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN, PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD AVOID EXPOSURE.
Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-880-424-LEAD or log on to www.pa.gob/lead 


Disclaimer
Since the use of our products is not under our direct supervision, we cannot guarantee any results of use beyond our control, even though the directions were followed.
Before using, user shall determine the suitability of the product for his/her intended use and user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith. 

Bluestone House™
P.O. Box 10071 Meadowlands
Ancaster, Ontario  L9K 1P2

Directions for Silky Patina Painting 101

Taking Your Furniture From "Ignored to Adored"

is what
Silky Patina Paint will do !
So get your apron on & roll up your sleeves

Step 1 - Select your piece ! - remove all knobs, hinges and/or handles

Step 2 - Make sure it’s clean. I like to clean with vinegar & water  but if it’s really old and gummy -
mineral spirits works well.  If it’s untreated wood - just dust free is all you need to do.

Step 3 - Although sanding is not always required - with shiny surfaces I always give it a quick scuff so to speak, with a sanding block, to increase adhesion.

Step 4 - Using your Bluestone House™ natural bristle brush, apply your paint. Some colours may require a second coat. Silky can also be rolled on but we prefer a brush.

Step 5 - You may be happy with the look at this point - if so you're all done ! You can now add your hardware back on. Silky does require a cure period of 3-6 days.

If you like the French Country distressed look, that is so desired,
 sand your piece lightly around the edges. Silky can also be "wet distressed" by rubbing the edges with a damp cloth as soon as it is dry to the touch.

You cannot make a mistake ! If you take off too much, add some more paint.

 Always paint & sand in a well ventilated area !

Step 6 -For added protection apply the Bluestone House™ Natural Beeswax. Using our  waxing brush, in a circular motion, apply the wax so that is is tacky to the touch but not clumpy. The wax is clear so you should not be able to see it on your piece.  Then, using a clean cloth, buff to a shine. As an alternative or you could brush on our Clear Waterborne Varnish "Silky Satin Interior Clear Topcoat".
See bluestonehouse.blogspot.com  or bluestonehouse.ca for inspirational pics.

Bluestone House™ Paints & Topcoats are
100% water based acrylic - ultra low VOC's and soap & water clean up !!!

Special Notes :
If you are painting a piece of furniture that is already painted, remove any old or flaking paint. Do this in a well ventilated area !
If you want to be sure that the knots or tannin in the wood do not bleed through - use a blocking primer. Personally I like it when the tannin & knots bleed throughout ! - it adds to the Patina of the piece !

 WARNING !!!    VERY ADDICTIVE !!!
If this happens - contact a friend and go garage saleing to find more pieces to paint !!!



WARNING FOR REMOVING LEAD PAINT
If you scrape, sand or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN, PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD AVOID EXPOSURE.
Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-880-424-LEAD or log on to www.pa.gob/lead

Disclaimer
Since the use of our products is not under our direct supervision, we cannot guarantee any results of use beyond our control, even though the directions were followed.
Before using, user shall determine the suitability of the product for his/her intended use and user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith.

Bluestone House™
P.O. Box 10071 Meadowlands
Ancaster, Ontario  L9K 1P2

Sunday 17 January 2016

Directions for Milk Patina Painting 101



 Bluestone House™ Milk Paint Directions
VERY IMPORTANT
PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE DIRECTION SHEET BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT.
NOTE: MILK PAINT, LIKE ALL WATER PAINTS, ADHERES BEST TO A POROUS SURFACE, SUCH AS BARE WOOD OR MASONRY. OUR EXTRA-BOND ADDITIVE WILL HELP THE MILK PAINT ADHERE TO MOST CLEAN, SOUND, NON POROUS SURFACES.


 Simple To Use
MIX: Measure about equal amounts of water & powder into separate containers. The one pint package contains about 2 1/2 cups of powder, and when mixed with 1 1/2 cups of water will make about 1 pint or 473ml of paint.

APPLY: With a brush, roller or foam brush. Milk paint is naturally somewhat streaky in colour. This is normal.

CLEAN UP: Soap & water !

ADVANTAGES !!!
  • Easy to use
  • Environmentally safe
  • Non-toxic & VOC free
  • Fast Drying
  • Soap & water clean up
  • long shelf life
  • Non-flammable
  • No odor when dry
Mixing Tips

Small Amounts: When mixing small containers of paint by hand it is easiest to make a paste of the powder with some of the water and stir until smooth, like making gravy, using a paint stick. Then gradually add more water until you reach the desired consistency.

Large Amounts: When mixing larger amounts may be easier to mix equal amounts of water & powder together using a paint mixer on a drill, on low speed, being careful not to mix too fast which can create foam.

Timing: Mix thoroughly for 2-3 minutes. Then let the paint stand for 10-15 minutes.

Strain:Stir paint every 10 minutes or so while painting, and add more water to the proper consistency if the paint thickens.

Best Used Fresh: Milk paint is always best mixed up fresh. If you happen to have leftover paint, or need to wait a day to finish your project, you may keep any unused paint in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It keeps best if mixed on the thinner side, even with a thin layer of water put on top of the mixture. Being true to the original formula there is no unnatural preservatives or extenders added to the painting due to its organic nature it can thicken and gel up over time, so its best to mix up what you plan to use that day. Any unused powder can be stored in an airtight container such as a jar


Happy Painting !!!

Porous Surface Painting

New Wood or other Porous Surfaces such as Masonry

Note: No primer is required.

Clean: Wipe down the item with a damp rag to remove any dust and to pre-dampen the surface.

First Coat: Paint the entire piece with a first coat of milk paint.

Second Coat: After an hour or more, if you wish, you can rub down the first coat slightly with fine sandpaper. If you are Happy with the look that's it ! or you may want to apply a second coat.

Finish: If you like the rough matt textured look your master piece is finished !!! Please note that this porous surface will absorb spills and stain easily.

Optional: After a couple of hours or overnight, you may wish to apply a wax coating for extra protection. Apply Bluestone House™ wax finish with a waxing brush and buff to a satin shine - or you Bluestone House™ Silky Satin Clear Varnish.
Apply the waterborne varnish with a brush - clean up with soap & water ! 



Non-Porous Surface Painting

Previously painted or otherwise finished surfaces, any other non porous surface such as glass,metal, enamel, pre-primed material.

Note: Unless you know the condition of the surface beneath previous coats of finish, we do caution you about the use of milk paint over multiple layers of paint that may have been applied incorrectly. Milk paint dries very rapidly and shrinks in all directions while drying. This can pull on the previous layers quite strongly, enough to cause the under layers to peel off.
It is not recommended over primer sealers with stain blockers.

Prepare Surface: Good finishing practice states that any surface to be painted or re-painted should be cleaned & dulled, not shiny. A proper cleaning solution and sandpaper.

Remove Old Paint: If the old paint films have poor adhesion, it is not recommended that you use milk paint over top. The old paint should be removed by stripping or sanding. If you don't remove it, the new paint may lift off the old paint at least in some areas.
On any chemically stripped off finish, be sure to neutralize any residual chemicals by wiping the surface with a 50/50 vinegar/water solution.

Metal: Raw metal should be primed with a rust inhibiting primer.


Extra-Bond: Apply one coat of paint with Extra-Bond added. To use Extra-Bond, first mix the milk paint with water according to the directions in " Simple to use" mixing section, then add an equal amount of Extra-Bond, and stir the two liquids together. You may use as little at 1 part EB to 2 parts MP, but better adhesion may be achieved by using equal parts.



Finish: If you like the rough matt textured look your master piece is finished !!! Please note that this porous surface will absorb spills and stain easily.

Optional: After a couple of hours or overnight, you may wish to apply a wax coating for extra protection. Apply Bluestone Cottage wax finish with a waxing brush and buff to a satin shine - or you Bluestone Cottage Silky Satin Clear Varnish.
Apply the waterborne varnish with a brush - clean up with soap & water !

Exterior Use

Milk Paint is not recommended for outdoor use however you may add Bluestone House™ Silky Exterior Amber Varnish to protect your finish.


Milk Paint Colours

The colours will vary slightly from batch to batch due to minor variations in the natural earth materials. If you wish to change the hues, or make  tints if the colours Start with snow white and add colours to suit your taste.
You can add pitch Black to deepen the tone.
Any of our colours can be mixed together to create your own new colours !



Ingredients 

Just as in Colonial times, and earlier, our Milk Paint does contain lime, milk protein, clays & earth pigments. It does not contain lead, chemicals, preservatives, hydrocarbons or other petroleum derivatives. The other ingredients are food grade or pharmaceutical grade.
Milk Paint is non-toxic & Zero VOC'S !



Shelf Life

Keep the milk paint tightly sealed until you are ready to use it.If it's kept in a dry and airtight environment it should last indefinitely. Store in a glass or metal container with a sealed lid. 


WARNING FOR REMOVING LEAD PAINT
If you scrape, sand or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN, PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD AVOID EXPOSURE.
Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-880-424-LEAD or log on to www.pa.gob/lead 



Disclaimer
Since the use of our products is not under our direct supervision, we cannot guarantee any results of use beyond our control, even though the direction were followed.
Before using, user shall determine the suitability of the product for his/her intended use and user assumes all risk and liability whatsoever in connection therewith.

Bluestone House™
P.O. Box 10071 Meadowlands
Ancaster, Ontario  L9K 1P2


Sunday 10 January 2016

Revamped Coffee Table with Driftwood

Taking a beat up coffee table and bring it to life with the beautiful soft Driftwood Chalky Patina! 

The coffee table is solid wood and Tanya just couldn't part with it. Having two small boys who used it for their cars, hammers and other things, she knew that it was possible to bring it back to life with a modern vintage twist. 

This beauty was given a light sanding and it was ready for its first coat of paint! After completely drying a second coat was applied.

At Bluestone House™ Tanya began her project...
From the Bluestone House™ collection of Chalky Patina Paints, she chose "Driftwood", a soft weathered grey that still holds all the warmth of a hot sunny day.
I wanted to help out a little !

And then the magic happened....sanding and distressing!


Tanya enhance the edges of the table where the detail was. Once done the beautiful dark stain came through the chalky patina Driftwood colour! 


 GREAT JOB GIRLIE!!!



She applied the beeswax for added protection and durability and voila she's done!

How stunning does the table look?! 

I hope this gave you some wonderful inspiration ...
....now go and that piece you have been wanting to paint and bring it back to life! 








Sunday 3 January 2016

Brand New Kitchen for next to nothing with Chalk Style Paint !!!

Do you love your kitchen but the colour is throwing you off? 

Do you feel you want it a bit more modern with a twist of vintage? 

Then this is what you need to read!


Tanya started using Bluestone House™ when she updated her coffee table. She then went on to do her kitchen. That turned out AMAZING !!!