To add an aged patina to the bench, we used a product from Varathane called Weathered Wood Accelerator. Before you start, let’s run down the list of things you’ll need: Latex gloves, a stir stick, clean rags, and your choice of applicators. A synthetic bristle brush is what I used, but a foam brush works just as well. For optimal absorption, the surface of the bench should be sanded with a 100-grit sandpaper.
TEST FIRST. It’s best to do a practice run on a leftover piece of the bench. How heavy of an aged look you want is a personal choice. For a lighter look, you can apply the accelerator and wipe it off right away. For a darker patina, leave the finish on for between 30 minutes to an hour. If the look is still not as dark or deep as you would like, let the piece dry for and hour and repeat the process.
When you’ve arrived at the look you like on the scrap piece, you can confidently attack the bench, just remember to keep the finish stirred along the way. After the finish on the bench has dried for a few hours it can be protected with a couple coats of lacquer.
