Traditional Mexican furniture varies in style, design and shape, from utilitarian vessels to sculptural benches. In addition to the ornate Spanish Colonial style of furniture, which is European-inspired, Mexican country antiques are also an important part of the country's heritage. Decide which type of look you want and go from there. Does this Spark an idea?
Essential Furniture Pieces
Start with an authentic piece of Mexican furniture. A few furniture pieces are found throughout nearly all homes in Mexico. These include two types of storage chests: the petaquillas, or small trunks which have handles, and the baules, which feature rounded or domed tops with matching bases and turned legs. Tables have simple tops with turned, painted, tapered or curved legs. The ladder-backed cantina chair is another Mexican-style staple.
Distressing Country Antiques
Mexican antiques are usually brightly colored with a distressed appearance. You can simulate years of wear and tear by distressing a newly painted surface. For an authentic Mexican look, start with a piece of furniture with a simple yet detailed look, like a bench with a scalloped back or a table with carved legs.
Begin the distressing process by first painting a thick coat of paint on the surface and waiting for it to dry. Then take a wire brush or a scouring pad and rub the surface, removing some of the layers of thick paint in a haphazard fashion. Sandpaper also can be used.
Spanish Colonial Style
When thinking of refinishing a piece in Spanish Colonial style, think elaborate and glossy. While the style of furniture is the same as Mexican country style, the finish is dark, rich and lustrous. Use either high-gloss paint or apply a shellac varnish to a just-painted piece. For an antique look, combine an aging varnish, which is specially formulated to look old, with a crackle varnish, which is specially formulated to simulate a cracked surface.
Tags: Spanish Colonial, Colonial style, Mexican country, Mexican furniture, Spanish Colonial style, specially formulated, style furniture
