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The artist and her pupils....    

Enjoy these masterpieces from Vida and Elvira, Dylan and Michael . 

'Crackle' painting creates old look

A popular design technique is taking something new and making it look old-aged and weather-beaten, at that.

One such popular effect is "crackle" painting.  The process gives any surface a crackled antique finish.  Here's how it's done:

First, spread a coat of white or yellow wood glue on the surface.  Wait at least an hour, but never more than four, then apply a coat of flat latex paint over the glue.  Within minutes, the fresh paint will begin to split and crackle, looking as if it had been there for a century.

Use only flat latex paint because its the only kind that is guaranteed to crackle.  If you're uncomfortable using a wood glue on your new bookcase or favorite chair, you can buy a product designed for the effect.

It costs about three times more, but mostly consists of wood glue.

Whichever you choose, the process will make any new painted surface look old.

Homemade polish creates sheen

Many spray can furniture polishes contain mostly water-up to 95 percent, in some cases.

Unfortunately wood and water don't mix.  In some instances, the polish can raise the wood's grain and, in the long term, cause damage.

Here is a formula you can create with ingredients that will clean, moisturize and shine fine wood furniture:  In a jar or bottle, mix equal parts of linseed oil, turpentine and vinegar.  We suggest between a third of a cup to a half of a cup of each.  Shake well before using, and look for a satin sheen on your furniture.