America's Leading Manufacturer of Innovative Water-Based Wood Finishes

Glaze Effects: Water Based

Glaze Effects are translucent water-based colors used to create beautiful decorative finishes such as marbling, shabby chic, burnishing and color washing. Use over Water Based Wood Stains, and Milk Paints. Glaze Effects can be intermixed to create custom colors. They may also be layered over one another to create deeper, richer looks.

Need some inspiration? Visit the General Finishes Design Center OR Pinterest Board for Glaze Effects ideas.

The referenced media source is missing and needs to be re-embedded.

Find A Store Compare Similar Products

General Finishes Van Dyke Brown Water Based Glaze Effects, Quart

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

RAW WOOD: Not recommended. Apply over a SEALED surface such as GF Milk Paint or topcoat.

NEWLY SEALED: Does not require prep cleaning. Sand lightly with 220-320 grit foam sanding sponge and remove dust.

EXISTING SEALED SURFACE: Scuff clean with a Scotch-Brite™ pad or maroon synthetic steel wool & 50/50 mix of denatured alcohol and water. Dry 1-2 hours. Sand lightly with 220-320 grit foam sanding sponge. Remove dust. Watch our video How to Prep and Existing Finish

Step 2: How To Apply General Finishes Glaze Effects

Join General Finishes University Facebook Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/generalfinishesuniversity for customer support and learning opportunities for GF products. This group is a great resource for guidance regarding choosing the right product, mastering finishing techniques, troubleshooting, or sharing your finished projects.

Download 2024 Glaze Effects Brochure Here

General Finishes Glaze Effects Application Steps

For less color & more control of depth and placement of glaze color, apply Glaze Effects over 1 coat of General Finishes High Performance Topcoat, any sheen. For a deeper color, apply directly over stain or paint. Test for adhesion over existing finishes before completing the project.

Work in a well-ventilated area.
Stir thoroughly to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the can before and throughout the application process.
Test color. To lighten, dilute with water based GF Glaze Effects Clear Base.
Thin as desired with distilled water; start with 5%, adding up to 10% by volume.
Increase open time, if needed, with 10-15% General Finishes Extender if allowed by local regulations. GF Extender will improve flow and leveling and increase open time, which is helpful in dry climates. California Residents: Adding more than 2% of GF Extender will make the products non-compliant per SCAQMD Regulations. GF assumes no liability for the improper use of these products.
Apply 1+ coats:
- Hand application: Apply a liberal coat using a synthetic bristle brush, foam brush, pad applicator or microfiber roller with smooth, even strokes. Wipe off excess with a cloth, high-quality absorbent paper towel or dry bristle brush. Do not use t-shirts.
- Spray application: Strain with a medium-mesh filter. Spray wet films at 3-5-mil thickness. HVLP: 1.3mm-2.0mm spray tip, medium air cap. Verify tip sizes with equipment supplier. See our general guide for spray tip sizes. Wear NIOSH-approved respiratory & eye protection. Read here for more information on spraying techniques. Wipe off excess with a cloth, high-quality absorbent paper towel or dry bristle brush. Do not use t-shirts.
Sand between coats with 220-320 grit foam sanding sponge. Do not use conventional steel wool. Remove dust.
Seal with 3 coats of topcoat.
Dry 3+ hours between coats and before GF water based topcoat in ideal conditions: 70°F/21°C; 50% humidity. Dry times may vary based on additive and mix-concentration used. Cooler temperatures & higher humidity may prolong dry time. Dry 24+ hours before applying GF oil-based products. Increase dry time if:
- Humidity is over 80%
- A thick coat is applied
- 3+ coats are applied (not recommended)
- Applying over an existing sealed finish
- Applying over products from other brands
- Layering General Finishes water- and oil-based products:
  - Water over oil: Let oil-based products dry 72+hr before applying water-based products
  - Oil over water: Let water-based products dry 24+hr before applying oil-based products

Cure Time
Water-based finishes cure and harden for full use after 21 days in ideal conditions. Avoid placing heavy objects on surfaces that have not completely cured. Treat gently, and do not clean with commercial products during the curing period.

Warning: Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.

Step 3: Topcoat over Glaze Effects

ALWAYS seal General Finishes Glaze Effects with 3 coats of clear topcoat, e.g. General Finishes High Performance Topcoat. Apply a total of 3+ coats of topcoat altogether. If 1 coat of topcoat is applied before Glaze Effects, add at least 2 more coats over the glaze to seal in the color.

Topcoat Recommendations

Low- to High-Wear Surfaces: High Performance Topcoat (brush or spray), General Finishes Enduro Clear Poly (spray only)
Low- to Medium-Wear Surfaces: General Finishes Flat Out Flat Topcoat (brush or spray)

Cleanup of Water Based Products

Application tools and materials containing water-based products can be cleaned with soap and water or General Finishes Brush & Gun Cleaner immediately after use.

Product Spills

Spills may be able to be removed from fabric and carpet if cleaned immediately with soap and water.

Disposal

Discard unused product and waste in an environmentally safe manner; check with local fire and health regulation.

Storage of Water Based Products

Life of Product

General Finishes products do not last forever, even when unopened. They are best used within 1 year. The life of the product may be extended with proper can closure and storage conditions. (see Storage Tips below).

Water-based products can last 3-5 years if the can is unopened, in good condition and stored in correct temperatures.

Product that is 3 years old will not look like product that is 6 months to 1 year old. You will see more stratification or separation as the product ages. Settling is natural. Always stir thoroughly before using.

Foul Smell

If your product has a foul smell, it is contaminated and no longer in useable condition.

Clumps & Settling

Gravity can cause some solids to settle on the bottom of the can and slight separation on the top. This is normal. If working with older product stir with a paint mixing attachment on a drill.

If the solids dissolve and clumps smooth out after mixing from the bottom, the product is in good condition for use.

Inability to reincorporate large, chunky lumps after stirring for several minutes is an indication that the product has frozen and can no longer be used.

Storage Tips

See video tutorial: Tips on Storing Leftover Finishes
Water-based finishes crystalize and form a skin due to evaporation when the air-tight seal on a can is broken at first use. The following best practices will increase the life of your product:

Pry open sealed lids with a paint can opener by hooking under the lid's rolled edge. The use of a screwdriver can disfigure the rim and lid, impairing a complete seal.
Keep lid closed while working. Pour what you will use into a bowl, paper cup, or plate, and close can lid as you work.
Clean the chime of the can thoroughly with a paper towel before closing to create a complete seal. Product falling into the chime can be minimized by using a pouring lid, such as Fitsall. Avoid wiping used brushes on the lid.
Pound the lid in place using a rubber mallet to avoid distorting the chime or lid. Dents in the lid from direct contact with a hammer can impair a complete seal. Alternatively, place a flat piece of wood over can lid and firmly pound shut.
Store in moderate temperatures. Avoid temperatures below 50°F/10°C or above 100°F/26°C. Keep from freezing. Frozen and heat-damaged product cannot be revitalized. Temperature-controlled spaces, such as a basement, are ideal for storage. Do not store product in an attic, garage, in direct sunlight, or next to something warm like a water heater or furnace.
Store can upside down to create a liquid seal, minimize evaporation and reduce the chance of crystallization. Decant remaining product from the can before stirring.
Decant leftovers to a smaller container when the finish is almost used up. Alternative storage containers for water-based products are plastic FIFO bottles or glass bottles. Do not fill metal-lidded containers completely to prevent them from rusting.

The following water-based product mixtures can be stored:

Product thinned with up to 15% General Finishes Extender or General Finishes Accelerator can be stored, with the exception of thinned General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain.
Mixtures involving colors & sheens within the same product line, such as:
- High Performance Satin + High Performance Gloss
- Snow White Milk Paint + Coastal Blue Milk Paint
- Amber Dye Stain + Merlot Dye Stain

The following product mixtures should NOT be stored:

Any water based product with thinned tap water; water often contains bacteria that will adversely affect stored paint.
Topcoat + Stain or Paint
Milk Paint + Chalk Style Paint
Water Based Wood Stain + Dye Stain

Creative Techniques Using Glaze Effects

Creating Custom Colors

You can design your own custom glazes, stains, washes and varnishes with General Finishes intermixable water-based products **Do not mix Glaze Effects with Water Based Stain (including water based pre-stain natural).

For the mixes listed below, General Finishes recommends the following two steps:

Applying a base layer of General Finishes High Performance Topcoat before applying your custom glaze.
Protect all of these finishes with 2-3 coats of topcoat when you are finished.

Pastel Glaze/Whitewash:

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Milk Paint: Your choice of colors
General Finishes Glaze Effects: Winter White

SAMPLE MIX:

Milk Paint + Winter White Glaze Effect

Experiment with proportions and colors. Do not add more than 50% paint to the glaze, or else there will be so much pigment it will be difficult to wipe away the finish.

Custom Glaze:

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Glaze Effects: Your choice of colors

SAMPLE MIX:

Pitch Black Glaze Effects + Winter White Glaze Effects.

Experiment with proportions and colors.

Custom Stain Colors:

MATERIALS NEEDED:

General Finishes Milk Paint: Your choice of color
General Finishes Glaze Effects: Clear Base

SAMPLE MIX:

1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Glaze Effects Clear Base [50:50 mix]

Proportions are relative to the color you are reducing. Some colors may require 2 parts Clear Base to reduce strength, others may require 1.

Begin with a 50:50 mix, and add more Clear Base as needed.

Increase your color palette by mixing 2 or 3 Milk Paint colors together before adding the Clear Base.

Milk Paint & Glaze Effects Samples

Furniture Care and Maintenance

Cure First

You have just finished applying a fine furniture finish. Treat gently until the paint or topcoat have fully cured. Allow 21 days for a water-based finish to cure and 30 days for an oil-based finish to cure before cleaning.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Remove dust with a water-dampened cloth. Dust can build up over time and may scratch or dull finishes if not removed regularly.
Remove fingerprints, cooking fumes and smoking residue with mild soap and water. These contaminants will not harm the finish, but they accumulate on surfaces and dull the original luster.
As with all fine furniture finishes, avoid using furniture polish, cleaners or dusting sprays that contain silicone, alcohol, ammonia and anything acidic. Exception: We have successfully cleaned with Clorox wipes for occasional cleanups.
Clean up water, alcohol and food spills in a timely manner and use placemats & coasters to protect the finish.
Future finishes or touch-ups may not adhere properly or perform as desired over a contaminated surface. Some contaminants, such as silicone, seep through finish into the wood and often cannot be removed.
Avoid excessive exposure to direct sunlight, high temperatures or high humidity. These can damage furniture and finishes.

Warnings and Warranties

Glaze Effects Warnings and Warranties

Compatibility
Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.

Limited Warranty
General Finishes products must be tested to your complete satisfaction before using. General Finishes will not be responsible for color satisfaction, misapplication, nor compatibility with other manufacturer's products. General Finishes will be responsible only for the cost of our products, and not for costs such as labor, damage or project replacement.

Contamination and Compatibility
Our finishes are engineered as a system and are compatible with each other. General Finishes cannot guarantee an ideal refinish when applying our products on top of or combined with another company's products or over surfaces that have been in contact with waxes, polishes or sprays containing contaminants such as silicone. Test for adherence and aesthetics before beginning.

FIRST AID: Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur due to the following. EYE CONTACT: Remove any contact lenses. Flush eyes with water for 20+ minutes while lifting upper and lower eyelids. SKIN CONTACT: Wash thoroughly after handling. INHALATION: Move to fresh air and loosen clothing. If not breathing, if breathing is irregular or if respiratory arrest occurs, provide artificial respiration or oxygen by trained personnel. INGESTION: Call physician immediately. Wash out mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

Prop 65 WARNING:

Burnt Umber:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Pitch Black:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, Carbon black, respirable powder, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Van Dyke Brown:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Winter White:
This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including 1,4-Dioxane, Titanium dioxide, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

CAUTION: MAY CAUSE EYE IRRITATION.
Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Wash thoroughly after handling.

Colors

Glaze Effects Colors

Specifications

Basic Features
Product Colors	Van Dyke Brown, Pitch Black, Winter White, Burnt Umber, Smokey Gray
Base Type	Water
Interior or Exterior	Interior
Type	Glaze
Application
Coats	1+ coats
Application Method	Brush, Spray
Brushable	Yes
Usable over existing finishes	Yes
Sprayable	Yes
Spray Tip Sizes	HVLP 1.3mm-2.0mm
Topcoat Required	Yes
Dry Time
Dry Time - Touch	1+ hr
Dry Time - Recoat	3+ hr
Contents
Can Sizes	Pints, Quarts, Gallons
Coverage	60-80 sq.ft./pint, 120-160 sq.ft./quart, 480-640 sq.ft./gallon
Technical Data
Viscosity	Medium
Weight Solids	22%
VOC	US VOC Burnt Umber: <293.554 g/L Pitch Black: <303.733 g/L Smokey Gray: <268.553 g/L Van Dyke Brown: <274.496 g/L Winter White: <273.767 g/L

Design Center

Tableset in Key West Blue CSP & Dark Chocolate MP

"This stunning Jacobean dining set is truly one of a kind! The table top has been refinished with General Finishes Dark Chocolate Milk Paint. The table legs and chairs were painted in Key West Blue Chalk Style Paint and accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. The entire set was sealed with General Finishes High Performance Topcoat in Satin to provide years of durability." - BethAnn Gentile Rogers-Bird of Painted Peacock Creations **General Finishes Chalk Style Paint has...

Winter White Glazed Dresser

"We sanded, sealed and glazed this piece using General Finishes Winter White Glaze Effects. Absolutely love the combo of the natural wood and brass." - Belle Maison

Red and Java Desk

"The glaze is getting easier and easier to use each time!! Thank you for a great product!" -Alicia Alicia from A Conversation Piece llc. used the Java Gel Stain on the top, Tuscan Red Milk Paint on the base, and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects over the red. Great work, Alicia! #GeneralFinishes #MilkPaint #PaintedFurniture #DIY

Coastal Blue Hutch Restyle

Coastal Blue Hutch Restyle

Divine Van Dyke Brown Chair

Show me the Monet... Van Dyke Brown Glaze at it best. Diane from The Paint Factory shared this stunning vintage chair restyle using Van Dyke Brown Glaze! To recreate the look, we recommend our Patina Green Milk Paint. Learn how to apply water-based Glaze Effects in our video demonstration at http://bit.ly/1u8ZgYV.

Coffee Table in Driftwood Gray Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects

We're loving this gorgeous coffee table refinished by Rachel's Re-purposed Restorationsusing GF's Driftwood Gray Milk Paint and highlighted by Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects!

Glazed Basil Accent Table

This little beauty has had quite the transformation. First our followers helped us choose the color & ultimately decided on General Finishes Milk Paint in Basil Green. We used Antique White for the highlights & the results were good, but it felt a little unfinished. A quick shadowing with General Finishes Pitch Black Glaze added some incredible dimension & was the perfect finishing touch!!" - Captiva Home Decor

Dresser in Antique White & Van Dyke Brown Combo

Jubilee Vintique gave this dresser a delightful facelift using General Finishes Antique White Milk Paint accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. Sealed with High Performance Topcoat

Seagull Gray and Van Dyke Brown Table and Chairs

This table and chairs got the full GF treatment by Susan Sweemer Cox. She used General Finishes Seagull Gray Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze. Susan says this is "my favorite color combo." The top of the table was stained with Java Gel Stain and sealed with our water based High Performance Top Coat in Flat. Thanks for sharing! It's gorgeous!

Winter White Glazed Dressers

"These have been stripped down to the natural finish and glazed using General Finishes Winter White Glaze Effects."

Glazed Antique White Bed Frame

"This beautiful full size bed was painted in General Finishes Antique White Milk paint. Antiqued by using General Finishes Van Dyke brown glaze & sealed with their Flat Out Flat." Find your favorite GF products at Rockler, Wood Essence, Klingspor, Amazon, or Lee Valley in Canada. NOTE: Woodcraft stores carry all of GF’s retail and professional line EXCEPT Chalk Style Paint. You can also use your zip code to find a retailer near you at ...

Apricot Chest of Drawers

"This sunny chest of drawers is painted in General Finishes Apricot Chalk Style Paint and darkened with Van Dyke Brown Glaze. The cream drop pulls accent the yellow beautifully." - Helen Nichole Designs GF Chalk Style Paint has been discontinued. Replace with a custom mix of 5:1 Sunglow Milk Paint, Persimmon Milk Paint

Custom Blue Dresser

"This was painted with a custom mix of Emerald, Klein Blue and Seagull Gray, then glazed with Pitch Black. The top was stained with General Finishes Black Gel Stain and sealed with Arm-R-Seal. The body was finished with High Performance Top Coat in Semi-Gloss." - J&P Designs Check out more custom color mixes in the General Finishes Design Center at http://designs.generalfinishes.com/ #generalfinishes #...

Spring Dresser Decked in Basil Milk Paint

"Are you thinking of Spring yet? I am! And Basil Milk Paint from General Finishes is the perfect plucked from the garden green, finished with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. You know every room needs a touch of green!" - Reloved By Lori

White Glazed Dresser

"We saw the grain of this old oak dresser and just had to let its natural beauty shine through. This piece was sanded down, glazed with General Finishes Winter White Glaze Effects and sealed with Enduro Clear Poly! This gorgeous piece would be perfect for an entryway." - Belle Maison

Queenstown, Driftwood and Pitch Black Dresser and Side Tables

This set has a velvety smooth dark gray finish, the highlights and dark glaze add more dimension to these curvy ladies. -Tara of Modern Vintage. These pieces were refinished with GF Queenstown Gray and Driftwood Milk Paint and glazed with our Pitch Black Glaze Effects.

Romantic and Distressed

Romantic Shabby Chic French Provincial Dresser highly disstressed and glazed with GF Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects and sealed with satin High Performance Topcoat.

Klein Blue Lego Activity Table

Here's a great use for those old end tables you've got hanging around the house! High Style Restyle used GF Klein Blue Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects to transform them into super fun Lego tables! Get all the project details here- http://www.highstylerestyle.com/blog/diy-lego-activity-table

Milkmaid Creations and Antiques

GF Retailer - Milkmaid Creations and Antiques 406 Court Street Vienna, Illinois

Seagull and Pitch Black Glazed Table

"I'm loving how this piece turned out. Used GF Seagull Gray MilkPpaint and glazed with GF Pitch Black. And topped off with GF HPTC." - Courtney Worn and Reborn Home Furnishings

Layered and Distressed Blue Cabinet

"Love this cool little table with storage! I'm thinking bedside table or coffee bar!" - Flipping Fabulous This cute little cabinet was painted with GF Patina Green and Klein Blue Milk Paint, accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects and sealed with High Performance Topcoat.

Basil and Winter White Glazed Side Tables

These lovely side tables were refinished with Basil Milk Paint, Winter White Glaze Effects and flat High Performance Topcoat.

Layered Driftwood Dresser

Autumn Styled Buffet "This gorgeous buffet is painted in General Finishes Driftwood with lots of layers of neutral glazes (Pitch Black, Winter White, Van Dyke Brown). This versatile piece has 3 deep drawers and 2 super roomy side cabinets with shelves! Sure to make a beautiful addition to your entry way, dining room, or even living space as a media console!"

Custom Yellow Petite Buffet

"Feeling inspired by late summer sunshine and sunflowers, this petite buffet is painted in a custom mix of Sunglow, Somerset Gold, Buttermilk Yellow Milk Paints, a few dashes of Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effecs and some dollops of Antique White Milk Paint. Glazed the paint with a little Pitch Black Glaze Effects and sealed with Clear Enduro Poly in Satin." - Gravity Hill Home

Custom Rustic Kitchen Island

We're smitten with this custom rustic kitchen island by Veronica at Roni's Rescued Relics! Veronica says, "I wanted to share this kitchen island my husband and I made. It's painted in General Finishes Milk Paint in Linen and then I went over it with GF Van Dyke Brown Glaze. It's even more beautiful in person! It goes perfectly with the barn wood top! To see more pics of the transformation go to Roni's Rescued Relics."

Whitewashed Dresser

"Whitewashing is a lovely way to add softness but maintain the natural beauty of the wood grain on pieces of furniture. When I saw this gorgeous oak dresser at Cricket's Antiques & Garden Market, I knew it would be a great contender for a whitewashed makeover! Using General Finishes Winter White Glaze Effects, I created a coastal, whitewashed or limed look with a few brushstrokes and lots of rags! This piece is available if you are interested. Price, dimensions, more photos, and the blog...

Get The Look: Custom Mix: Antique Cherry & Amber Wood Stain accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze

Black and Gold Nightstands

This set of nightstands were made from a antique 1930-1940’s vanity. It was almost completely taken apart, cut up by my husband and put back together by me. The set are not identical as some details had been lost over the years. With this set you are truly getting one of a kind nightstands or end tables. The set was completely striped. Painted gold, then painted black wet distressed, dry distressed, painted gold again and sealed. The tops were stained General Finishes antique walnut...

Nine-Drawer Dresser in Driftwood & Van Dyke Brown

"Gorgeous nine-drawer dresser with large drawers refinished in General Finishes Driftwood Milk Paint and antiqued with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects, freshly refinished hickory stained top." - Southern Fried Thriftique

Dashing Jewelry Cabinet in Layered White & Gray

What a dashing jewelry cabinet this is by Willow Tree Chickadee! Layered with GF Antique White and Queenstown Milk Paint and Winter White Glaze Effects.

Stylish Dresser in Seagull Gray and Van Dyke Brown

We adore this lovely dresser by Ivory & Oak. Finished with GF Seagull Gray Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects.

Winter White Ice Box Reconstruction

This ice box reconstruction may be the coolest thing we've seen all week! Kristi and Terri at Chalk It Up_ are refinishing this piece with Winter White Glaze over ASCP. To recreate the look, we suggest our Seagull Gray Milk Paint! Kristi and Terri shared, "So, I'm still working on this one, but isn't this the neatest piece? It's a reconstruction of an old ice box, but made with shelving to make it more functional for storage. It's the only piece my hubs has ever asked to keep & he didn't...

Get The Look: Seagull Gray hand-distressed with Winter White Glaze

Van Dyke Brown Accented Love Seat

Can't get enough of this Italian love seat accented with GF Van Dyke Glaze Effects by Diane Llewellyn Grover of The Paint Factory LLC Diane says, "I ventured out and used Modern Masters Metallic Paint in Olympic Gold. To tone it down a little, I used a General Finishes glaze, and sealed it with a dead flat finish. The end result is a beautiful muted gold. Quite exquisite, if I say so myself."

Glazed White Buffet

"French Provincial Furniture always has such a classy high end, yet relaxed look to it. With its carved and curved feet and all the delicate details it has such a luxurious style. This French Provincial dresser was painted in layers of General Finishes Milk Paints in Lamp Black, Antique White and Linen. A mixture of Burnt Umber Glaze and Van Dyke Brown Glaze have been added to make the details pop. The top has been stained with GF Java Gel and Antique Walnut Gel Stains and sealed with a Gel top...

Brick Red with Pitch Black Glazed Dresser

Trash to Treasures made over this dresser with General Finishes Brick Red Milk Paint, Pitch Black Glaze Effects and our water based High Performance Topcoat in Satin. Gorgeous! Trash to Treasures is located in Mechanicsville, MD, check out their facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/pages/Trash-to-Treasures/214557258712419?sk=tim... to see pieces for sale! #gfmilkpaint #gfglazeeffects #...

Winter White Glazed Cabinet

"We stripped this piece down to the natural wood, sealed it, and glazed it using General Finishes Winter White Glaze Effects. The details on this one are amazing." - Belle Maison

Persian Blue Table Accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects

Absolutely stunning table by The Frayed Knot Antiques and Design in GF Persian Blue and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects to make all those details pop! Learn more about how to apply GF Glaze Effects in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iqo0wN3B0-E&t=1s

Glazed Bench

"I love the way this bench turned out! The base is my popular General Finishes glaze concoction of Gray, White, and Brown glazes." - Painted Pieces

Driftwood and Red Sienna Dining Table

Great and unique color combo from Kristi Lynn Collection! This dining set was painted with GF Driftwood Milk Paint and glazed with GF Red Sienna Glaze Effects. Learn more about how to apply General Finishes Glaze Effects in this tutorial video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jifX-ZCHDI

Key West Blue Secretary

The Vintage Chicks, Tx Home Interiors refinished this lovely vintage secretary with General Finishes Key West Blue Chalk Style Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. **General Finishes Chalk Style Paint has been discontinued. Replace with Key West Blue Milk Paint.

Gray Marilyn Monroe Dresser

Shades of Shabby_ outdid themselves with this Marilyn Monroe dresser! It was painted with GF Driftwood Milk Paint and accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects.

Holiday Red Coffee Bar

"I finished up this red dresser to use as a coffee bar in our house. This is my hubs fave color combo, and we both love the way it turned out! ❤️ General Finishes Antique Walnut Gel Stain, Holiday Red Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze." - Fury Design Co.

Adorable Antique Table

Rehab to Fab sure did some rehab on this darling table! Antique White Milk Paint and Java Gel Stain came together in the perfect combination on this piece, accented with Van Dyke Brown Glaze and sealed with Arm-R-Seal Top Coat!

Luggage Chest of Drawers

Susan Davis of Meme's Ewenique Boutique restyle this chest of drawers with General Finishes Black Pepper and Bayberry Green Chalk Style Paints as well as Sunglow and Snow White Milk Paints. It was aslo accented with GF Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects. So creative! **General Finishes Chalk Style Paint has been discontinued. Replace Black Pepper with Lamp Black Milk Paint and Bayberry with a custom mix of 3:1 Basil Milk Paint , Harvest Yellow Milk Paint

Lovely Serena

"I found Serena languishing in a local thrift store. She was built in my local area nearly 100 years ago. Her existing finish was alligator scaly and she was missing veneer in a lot of places. This is the second dresser I chose to tackle and I envisioned I could transform her back to glory with some paint and glaze. I cleaned her, stripped her, patched her and sanded her, and she began to come back to life. I chose to stain the top with a custom mix of antique walnut and...

Holiday Red/Antique White/Van Dyke Brown Glazed Valentine's Day Sign

Fun Valentine's Day sign made from an old cabinet door with GF Holiday Red & Antique White Milk Paint and Van Dyke Brown Glaze Effects by The Amber Rose Emporium on Etsy. Such a great idea!

Canvas Art Work with GF Milk Paint and Glazes

"Wow, not only is General Finishes paint fabulous on furniture but it paints like a dream on canvases. I thought I would share with you some of the paintings I have done with the left over paint! Your Milk Paint has the most beautiful properties for painting on canvas and suits my painting style perfectly! I wish I had known about it when I was at art school. Love being a stockist of the best paint ever! ~ Love from one of your Scottish stockists, Miss Pauley's" If you're in Scotland...

Millstone TV Stand

"It always amazes me what a difference paint can make in a piece. This piece was painted in General Finishes Millstone, Dark Chocolate, Van Dyke Brown Glaze and top coated in High Performance in satin finish. It will be making its way to a new home where it will be used as a Flat Screen TV Stand." - Reblessed, LLC

Van Dyke Brown Glaze Antique White Coffee Table

"This piece was set out for the trash! Can you believe it! Legs were off and the side apron was broken. After lots of cleaning and sanding we totally transformed this piece. Painted with General Finishes Antique White and Van Dyke Brown Glaze in details." - Blooming Hydrangea Co

Glazed Linen Cabinet

"These giant cabinets are a TON of work but the results are so rewarding! ♥️ Updated in General Finishes Milk Paint in Linen, Van Dyke Glaze then High Performance Top Coat for enhanced durability!"- Captiva Home - Furniture Painting

Holiday Red Showcase

"I love these products. So easy to use, and all of my clients love the look and feel. They say it seems like they were factory finished, and I have never sprayed any of my pieces. Amazing products!" -Thriftique Boutique: Thrifty, Antique & Unique Isn't this beautiful?! We think so! The outside of this showcase is painted in General Finishes Holiday Red Milk Paint with Pitch Black Glaze Effects and High Performance Top Coat on top. The inside is done in GF's Candlelite Gel Stain, the...

Videos

How To Glaze Furniture

How to Apply Glaze Effects Over Stain

FAQs

Glaze Effects FAQs

*Does Glaze Effects Require Topcoat?

Absolutely. All stains and glazes require a sealant. Think of the stain or glaze as the color and the topcoat as protection.

Related Categories

Glaze Effects

Can Glaze Effects be sealed with wax instead of top coat?

Yes, you can use Satin Wax instead of top coat if you prefer. Although GF loves the look of wax, we recommend using top coat because wax is not as durable. Wax requires annual maintenance and it must be removed if you want to apply topcoat in the future.

Related Categories

*How Can I Create a Custom Glaze, Wash, Varnish or Stain?

You can design your own custom glazes, stains, washes, and varnishes with General Finishes intermixable water-based products. **Do not mix General Finishes Glaze Effects with General Finishes Water Based Stain (including Pre-Stain Natural) See tips and recipes below.

For all of the following mixes, GF recommends the following two steps:

Applying a base layer of High Performance Top Coat before applying your custom glaze.
Protect all of these finishes with 2-3 coats of top coat when you are finished.

PASTEL GLAZE/WHITEWASH:

Milk Paint + Winter White Glaze Effects OR Milk Paint + Water Based Whitewash Wood Stain

NOTE: Do not add more than 50% paint. If you add more than 50% you will have so much pigment that it will be difficult to wipe away the finish. **Do not mix Glaze Effects with Water Based Wood Stain.

CUSTOM GLAZE:

For example, Pitch Black Glaze Effects + Winter White Glaze Effects

Experiment with proportions and colors.

WOOD STAIN AS A GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + 10% High Performance Top Coat
OR
Oil Based Wood Stain + 10% Mineral Spirits

Note: Make sure that you wait 72 hours before applying a water-based topcoat on top of an oil-based stain.

AGED/VARNISH GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio
OR
Dye Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio

CUSTOM STAIN COLORS:

1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Pre-Stain Natural [50:50 mix]
OR
1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Glaze Effects - Clear Base [50:50 mix]
OR
1 part Milk Paint + 2 parts Water Based Stain Natural [1:2 parts]

Note: Proportions are relative to the color you are reducing. Some colors may require 2 parts clear base to reduce strength, others may require 1. Begin with a 50:50 mix, and add more clear base if necessary.

You can further increase the color palette by mixing 2 or 3 Milk Paint colors together before adding the clear base.

Related Categories

*How Can I Tint or Mix Your Black Glaze to Make a Custom Gray Color?

There are three ways:

Mix with small amount of General Finishes Milk Paint in Snow White.
Add a small amount of General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain in White.
Professional users could add General Finishes Enduro Pigmented White Poly.

Related Categories

*Can I Create a Glaze with General Finishes Water Based Stains?

General Finishes stains make beautiful glazes. Just add 10% General Finishes High Performance Topcoat.

Related Categories

waxing

*Does Glaze Effects Require Topcoat?

Absolutely. All stains and glazes require a sealant. Think of the stain or glaze as the color and the topcoat as protection.

Related Categories

Glaze Effects

*How Can I Create a Custom Glaze, Wash, Varnish or Stain?

You can design your own custom glazes, stains, washes, and varnishes with General Finishes intermixable water-based products. **Do not mix General Finishes Glaze Effects with General Finishes Water Based Stain (including Pre-Stain Natural) See tips and recipes below.

For all of the following mixes, GF recommends the following two steps:

Applying a base layer of High Performance Top Coat before applying your custom glaze.
Protect all of these finishes with 2-3 coats of top coat when you are finished.

PASTEL GLAZE/WHITEWASH:

Milk Paint + Winter White Glaze Effects OR Milk Paint + Water Based Whitewash Wood Stain

NOTE: Do not add more than 50% paint. If you add more than 50% you will have so much pigment that it will be difficult to wipe away the finish. **Do not mix Glaze Effects with Water Based Wood Stain.

CUSTOM GLAZE:

For example, Pitch Black Glaze Effects + Winter White Glaze Effects

Experiment with proportions and colors.

WOOD STAIN AS A GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + 10% High Performance Top Coat
OR
Oil Based Wood Stain + 10% Mineral Spirits

Note: Make sure that you wait 72 hours before applying a water-based topcoat on top of an oil-based stain.

AGED/VARNISH GLAZE:

Water Based Wood Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio
OR
Dye Stain + High Performance Top Coat 50:50 ratio

CUSTOM STAIN COLORS:

1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Pre-Stain Natural [50:50 mix]
OR
1 part Milk Paint + 1 part Glaze Effects - Clear Base [50:50 mix]
OR
1 part Milk Paint + 2 parts Water Based Stain Natural [1:2 parts]

Note: Proportions are relative to the color you are reducing. Some colors may require 2 parts clear base to reduce strength, others may require 1. Begin with a 50:50 mix, and add more clear base if necessary.

You can further increase the color palette by mixing 2 or 3 Milk Paint colors together before adding the clear base.

Related Categories

*How Can I Tint or Mix Your Black Glaze to Make a Custom Gray Color?

There are three ways:

Mix with small amount of General Finishes Milk Paint in Snow White.
Add a small amount of General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain in White.
Professional users could add General Finishes Enduro Pigmented White Poly.

Related Categories

*Is Topcoat Required Between Gel Stain and Water Based Glaze Effects?

Yes - this is not a good place to take shortcuts. GF Gel Stain gets its deep rich hue from a large number of colorants. Seal the stain with a topcoat before applying glaze to prevent "color pull."

The glaze will also glide more easily over the surface after topcoat is applied, allowing you greater control of how much color you want to use. Be sure to wait 72 hours when applying water-based finishes over oil-based finishes.

Here is a sample finish schedule:

Prep sand and clean
Apply stain
Apply a layer of topcoat to prevent color bleed thru and make glazing easier
Apply Glaze Effects
Apply 2-3 coats of topcoat to protect the entire project

Related Categories

Can Glaze Effects be sealed with wax instead of top coat?

Yes, you can use Satin Wax instead of top coat if you prefer. Although GF loves the look of wax, we recommend using top coat because wax is not as durable. Wax requires annual maintenance and it must be removed if you want to apply topcoat in the future.

Related Categories

What Finishes & Coatings does General Finishes Offer for Retailers, Homeowners and DIY??

General Finishes offers water, oil, and maintenance finishes that meet the needs of homeowners, woodworkers, and DIY’ers. Comprehensive videos are available for each product on YouTube, plus dynamic comparison charts at GeneralFinishes.com/COMPARE.

All General Finishes water-based finishes are:

VOC compliant in all 50 states
Water cleanup
Low odor
Non-flammable

INTERIOR PRIMERS

Water Based Stain Blocker is:

An epoxy acrylic formulation.
Prevents tannin bleed-through & discoloration.
Has high build with excellent adhesion properties.
Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.

WATER-BASED TOPCOATS & PIGMENTED FINISHES

High Performance Water-Based Topcoat is:

An Interior polyurethane/acrylic blend.
Clear drying.
highly resistant to water and household chemicals.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Flat Out Flat Water-Based Topcoat is:

An interior acrylic formulation.
Clear drying.
provides an extremely flat finish with high durability.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Enduro-Var II Water-Based Topcoat is:

An interior oil-modified water-based urethane.
Dries to a light, amber tone.
Made with over 50% renewable resources.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Milk Paint is:

A premium interior and exterior-rated acrylic formulation.
Self-sealing and does not require topcoat.
Is made with over 50% renewable resources.
Is available in 12 popular colors, plus two tint bases.
Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.

Water-Based Glaze Effects is:

An interior oxidating acrylic formula.
Available in 6 colors, including a Clear Base.
Is a decorative specialty finish.
Can be intermixed to create custom colors.
It requires a topcoat
Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer

Pro Image Water-Based Flooring Topcoat is:

An interior polyurethane.
Clear drying.
Levels to a smooth, hard, durable finish.
Provides excellent slip and black heel mark resistance.
Apply with a brush, roller, or pad applicator.

INTERIOR WATER-BASED STAINS

Water-Based Wood Stain is:

Made with over 50% renewable resources.
It’s available in 18 deep brilliant colors.
And provides universal coverage on many wood species.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Pre-Stain Conditioner is:

Used to control blotching on hard-to-stain woods.
And to reduce Water Based Wood Stains.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Dye Stain is:

A penetrating stain with ink-like consistency.
It is available in 14 vibrant colors.
And can be used as a toner.
Apply with a brush or sprayer or wiping on.

Water-Based Dye Stain Reducer is:

The clear base used to reduce Dye Stain colors.

WATER & OIL EXTERIOR FINISHES

Exterior 450 Clear Water-Based Topcoat is:

A polyurethane formulation.
Tintable to dark colors.
Contains UV absorbers & Mildewcides to protect the finish.
Clear drying.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.

450 White Water-Based Topcoat is:

A pigmented polyurethane formulation.
Is tintable to light and pastel colors.
Contains UV absorbers & mildewcides to protect the finish.
Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.

Exterior 450 Water-Based Stain is:

Made with over 50% renewable resources.
Available in 10 colors, including a clear base.
Contains U.V. absorbers & mildewcides to protect the finish.
Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Milk Paint is:

A premium Interior and exterior-rated acrylic formulation.
Self-sealing and does not require topcoat.
Made with over 50% renewable resources.
Available in 12 popular colors, plus two tint bases.
Apply with a brush, roller or sprayer.

Outdoor Oil is:

A penetrating oil wood preservative.
Contains UV absorbers and mildewcides to protect the finish.
This finish will amber as it ages.
A maintenance product. Reapply when wear becomes evident.
Apply with a brush, roller or sprayer.

INTERIOR OIL STAINS & AMBERING TOPCOATS

Gel Satin Oil-Based Topcoat is:

A heavy-bodied, no-drip oil and urethane formula.
Designed to provide a hand-rubbed look.
Will amber as it ages.
Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Gel Oil-Based Stain is:

A heavy-bodied, no-drip formula.
Available in 14 deep, rich, uniform colors.
Apply with a brush, roller, or wipe on.

Arm-R-Seal Oil-Based Topcoat is:

A penetrating sealer with a high-quality urethane formulation.
It provides long-lasting, durable protection.
and works beautifully on projects with detail.
This finish will amber as it ages
Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Liquid Oil-Based Wood Stain is:

a traditional, pigmented liquid wiping stain
Available in 14 colors
Can be used as a toner with Arm-R-Seal
Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Oil-Based Pre-Stain Conditioner is:

Designed to control blotching on hard-to-stain woods.
And penetrates the grain to promote uniform acceptance of oil stains.
Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Oil-Based Seal-A-Cell Clear is:

Formulated with a blend of oils, urethanes, and wax.
Is GF’s deepest penetrating close-to-the-wood sealer.
And the best choice for highlighting figured wood.
Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Hard Wax Oil is:

A urethane-solids polymer in a blend of oil & wax.
Enhances the natural look of wood.
One of our easiest finishes to use.
It’s best used with optional GF Hardener to shorten dry time and provide superior durability.
This is a maintenance product. Reapply when wear becomes evident.
Apply with a white pad or plastic spreader.

Oil Based Wood Bowl Finish is:

A pure urethane formulation.
Highlights figured wood beautifully
Apply with a brush or wipe on.

INTERIOR MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS

Butcher Block Oil is:

A mineral oil formulation.
Meets all requirements for use on wooden surfaces that come in contact with food.
This is a maintenance product. Reapply when wear becomes evident.
Apply with a cloth.

Orange Oil is:

A routine cleaner for cured wood finishes
Non-combustible with a fresh orange scent
Apply with a cloth

Satin Finishing Wax is:

A blend of waxes.
Produces a soft sheen and feel over any wood finish.
Can be used as a polish for rubbing out new finishes OR as a scratch-remover.
Apply with a cloth.

No matter what your project is, General Finishes has the right product for you. General Finishes is dedicated to using the highest-quality ingredients in all our products, while testing and advancing our water-based finishes with leading-edge technology.

Learn more about GF’s products at Generalfinishes.com.

General Finishes: We make tomorrow's finishes today.

Related Categories

Visit Our Design Center!

General Finishes Design Center

Check out our product comparison tool!

Product comparison image