DIY Faux Galvanized Patina Letters Using Acrylic Paint

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Welcome!

When I learn something AWESOME that saves money, time and looks fabulous I just can’t wait to share it with you!

I created a galvanized patina technique for these HOME paper mache’ letters that is easy, budget friendly and no fancy pants oxidizing solution needed.

This is a great way to add an industrial, aged look to your space like I did for my Kitchen Nook and I used good ole’ cheap acrylic paint. I did a similar technique with my Faux Galvanized Vase.

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SUPPLIES FOR GALVANIZED PATINA LETTERS

HOME paper mache’ letters
Rust – Oleum Hammered Spray paint in Silver
Cinnamon – yes the cinnamon you use in baking
Acrylic paint in a patina/turquoise/teal color – I used Folk Art in Patina
Acrylic paint in a rust color – I mixed Folk Art in Coffee Bean with Folk Art Metallic in Inca Gold
Acrylic paint in a light gray color – I mixed Americana in Grey Storm and Americana Snow White
Sea sponges
Small paint brush
Spray sealer (optional)
Command strips (optional)

I bought my letters at Hobby Lobby. They unfortunately weren’t on sale but if your lucky you can catch them at 50% off. Regular price the letters were $2.99 each.

Here is a video of the process if you prefer or see the written step by step tutorial below.

STEPS FOR GALVANIZED PATINA LETTERS

Step 1) I started out by spray painting a coat of Rust – Oleum Hammered Spray paint in Silver on the paper mache’ letters. Then while working in sections I added a second coat of the hammered spray paint. While the spay paint was still wet I sprinkled cinnamon on the letters. Then I used a paint brush to move the cinnamon around. I used a paint brush that I was planning on throwing away since the spray paint and cinnamon clumps in the bristles. The wet paint worked well at making it adhere. The cinnamon worked amazing to resemble the color and texture of rust. Added bonus it smells good too. Allow it to dry. At this point you could definitely leave it this beautiful galvanized rust look or move on to add the patina.

Step 2) Now it is time for the patina. Taking a sea sponge I dabbed it in the patina paint and then blotted the excess on a piece of paper. Then I dabbed it on the letter and smeared it in the direction of the shape of the letter. I repeated this until I achieved the look I wanted. Once this dried I thought it was a little too much patina so I touched it up with more rust with mixing the Coffee Bean and Inca Gold. Also in a couple spots I added more gray with mixing the Grey Storm and Snow White. The layering effect really added to the look. When I was happy with the results and it was dry I applied a satin spray sealer.