If you are using Rub n Buff on a surface that will be handled regularly (knobs, faucets, etc) it’s important to sand and prime first for best adhesion. If you don’t have any handy, I love this inexpensive brush set and use it for makeup, but the stiffer large brushes will work for this project. Sometimes you find that near perfect piece – except it’s not in quite the metallic finish that you’d prefer. I discovered Rub ‘n Buff last year and instantly fell in love with it after testing it out on some knobs and hooks. At this point the brush had been sitting overnight with the Rub ‘n Buff dried on (I forgot to wash it out) so it wasn’t going on as smoothly, and even buffing parts of the first layer off.

European Gold Rub n Buff Get the Look of Antique Brass with European Gold Rub n Buff

It took a few failed tries and some experimentation, but I finally figured out the best way to get consistent, beautiful results. I found that the spray paint will also “grab” onto the Rub ‘n Buff and make it adhere to the surface very well. I actually found that dabbing and rubbing the product in with my old make up brush did a decent job buffing – but you can use a clean soft cloth to buff your newly finished item until smooth and shiny if it’s not quite to your liking! If you like the more textured look with some of the black base coming through, one coat is probably enough.The first time I tried using a cotton ball and that didn’t work at all, so take my advice and use a good makeup brush! We’ve lived with them for almost a year and I liked them, but I wasn’t completely in love with the brass finish. Unlike paint which can look flat (or sometimes flat with sparkles), Rub n Buff creates the true multi-dimensional look of metal. I knew Rub ‘n Buff was the answer, and I was finally able to carve out some time last weekend to make it happen.

AMACO Rub n Buff Wax Metallic Finish - Rub n Buff European

Makeup brush — Obviously you won’t be using it on your face again, so don’t use your favorite brush! It’s the easiest and quickest way to achieve a realistic antique metal finish, and it’s an enjoyable process too!

I reviewed every shade of gold Rub ‘n Buff, and I’m sharing the results—along with my technique for getting a perfect aged patina effect! The application of Rub ‘n Buff is unlike anything I’ve used before (different than paint, wax, or gel) and requires a certain technique to get the aged look just right.