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Reclaimed Boat Wood Finish

Have you ever seen reclaimed boat wood? The wood from salvaged boats is repurposed into great furniture. The vibrant colors, texture, and the story - salvaged wood that's been a part of countless voyages on the sea...it all appeals to my sense of style. Unfortunately, it's really expensive. So, I studied several photos and realized we couldn't think of any distressing method that would create the look we desired. It doesn't look sanded or faded. It looks like it's been chipped away.

Reclaimed Boat Wood Finish

Specifications

Project typeHeadboard
RoomBedroom
StyleGreen or Eco-Friendly Style Furniture
DifficultyStarter Projects
Estimated costUnder $20

Step-by-step Instructions

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Step 1

The technique is really quite simple. You take a paper plate, some paint, and a scrap piece of wood. Pour the paint on a plate and dip the scrap in the paint and then paint your boards with the scrap. This will give you the uneven paint look.

Reclaimed Boat Wood Finish — step 1
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Step 2

Now just layer the colors of paint until you like your results. We did groups of boards together for the idea that they came from the same boat.

Reclaimed Boat Wood Finish — step 2
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Step 3

This is the original idea we were trying to copy:

Reclaimed Boat Wood Finish — step 3
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Step 4

All of the wood was from old pallets at a recycling center here on base. I also made the wooden anchor from some of the left over scraps and I made the frame on the left out of some 2x2s.

Reclaimed Boat Wood Finish — step 4
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Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.

Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/reclaimed-boat-wood-finish