How to use Rub 'n Buff wax metallic finish for home decor projects.
If you have a decor item that needs a little something, this "paint" that comes in a tiny tube is the perfect answer for a quick and easy update!
Rub 'n Buff is this amazing metallic finish that is super easy to apply (you just use your finger or a soft cloth). The finish adds dimension and interest to basic decor like frames, mirrors and decorative objects.
It really shows off pretty detail on those items as well -- so if you have an intricate mirror or frame, Rub 'n Buff is perfect for it.
What is Rub 'n Buff?
If you've never used it, you'll be shocked at the power in this little bitty tube!:
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This antique gold color is one of my favorites!
Rub 'n Buff is not really paint -- more of a wax paste made from fine metallic powders. It has a strong pigment and applies easily to hard surfaces. You can lightly buff it out to soften the look a bit.
It's great for smaller details and eliminates the hassle of using spray paint outside.
I've used this stuff for years, and it's my go-to when there's something in our house that is looking a little bland.
How to apply Rub 'n Buff
It doesn't look like much, but this stuff goes a loooong way. It's easy to squeeze out too much -- you want to err on using too little and you can always add more or layer the finish.
You only have to use a tinybit for accent projects. I usually start by dabbing my finger on the opening:
I used the antique gold finish for this project.
For the best adhesion, start with a clean, dry surface.
I usually use my finger -- I feel like it's easier to do detail work that way. But you can also use a soft clean cloth to apply it:
YEARS ago I added a simple gold detail on the front of some frames near our fireplace:
From far away it gives the look of metal brackets. I loved that look so much, I did the same to some of the frames on our family room DIY picture ledges.
I used a few pieces of painter's tape to mark off the corners and then just rubbed it on:
It dries almost immediately, so you can buff it out right away.
Use either your finger or a cloth to rub it in and even out the finish:
I like a finger for application and a cloth for the buffing part. You don't have to buff, but it does give it a pretty sheen and blends it nicely.
You can use Rub 'n Buff for larger projects, but I've always loved the little detail it adds in smaller doses:
See how to build those picture ledges here! More about the board and batten here.
I think I'm going to add it to the sides of the frames as well, so we can see the gold accent from all directions.
I love this mirror in our basem*nt and that it matches the walls almost exactly:
DIY wall of basem*nt built ins
Sometimes you want contrast, sometimes a more muted look is what you're aiming for. I love how this blends in for a more modern look, but it needed something.
When I added the box molding on the wallsdown there, I moved the mirror to another wall and then added gold accents with the Rub 'n Buff:
The paint on the mirror had a slightly distressed look on the edges, so I used those as my guide.
It only took a few minutes and made a big difference!:
On something like this especially, there's no perfection needed. Just swipe it on here and there until you get the look you want!
Where you can use Rub ‘n Buff
This stuff adheres to all kinds of surfaces -- metal and wood are easy. I haven't tried it on plastic so let me know if you have! It's an easy way to change up light fixtures, frames, art, decorative knobs...the possibilities are endless!
I've grabbed these tubes a lot over the years -- it's especially lovely when used to highlight pretty texture.
It made the raised, ornate details on this frame pop:
You can use it instead of spray paint for smaller pieces too. I "painted" some red metal bells in our Christmas decor last year. The Rub 'n Buff gave them a vintage look with more dimension than straight spray paint would give.
If you have a large item, you can spray paint it and then add some detail with the Rub 'n Buff on top. It's so versatile!
I did just that to turn this wood terrarium to more of a metal look:
The pewter Rub 'n Buffgave it the look of metal, with some variation that straight spray paint can't give.
Tips for using Rub 'n Buff
- Remember, a little goes a long way -- start with a tiny amount!
- No need for brushes, you can use your finger or a cloth.
- It's easily removed from your fingers with nail polish remover or mineral spirits.
- Play around with colors! It comes in nine different metallic finishes, from silver leaf to copper.
- The more you buff the finish, the shinier it will get!
I love that it gives pieces an older, aged look because the finish isn'tperfect, especially on textured surfaces.
It added detail so our mirror isn't so blah anymore...just enough to make it stand out!:
Have you tried this magical wax finish? It's fun and easy!
If you're looking for similar gold or brass finishes, their European Gold, Gold Leaf, and Grecian Gold options are beautiful!
Save this tutorial for later by saving this image to Pinterest:
