Outdated shelf

Electric sander or just plain old sandpaper

Damp cloths

Drop cloth

1 American Accents Distressed Ivory Decorative Finishing Kit

Susie used an electric hand sander to strip the wood, but using a little muscle and regular sandpaper is just fine. Remember, you don't need to get all the way to raw wood, but just sand enough to smooth out the surface and rough up any glossy finishes so

Wipe the piece clean with a damp cloth and let dry.

Brush on the ivory base coat and let dry. You may want to apply a second coat, but before you start, remember that this is a distressed piece and may not need it.

When your base coat is completely dry, use the sanding pad included in the kit to sand areas that would normally distress. (Edges are perfect.)

Wipe off any sanding dust with a damp cloth and let dry.

Next, apply the dark top coat to areas you have sanded. Let sit for a few seconds or a few minutes and wipe clean with a paper towel. The longer you let it sit, the darker your distressing will be. Remember, you can always add another coat of the dark top

Move your shelf into you room, add décor, and enjoy!