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PATINA LANE by Linda Carter Designs

If you’re anything like me, you know the thrill of breathing new life into an old piece of furniture or a forgotten trinket. There’s just something magical about transforming something worn and tired into a showstopper that tells a story. And when it comes to picking the perfect paint, well... that’s where the fun really begins. Today, I want to share some of my favorite popular Dixie Belle hues that have become staples in my crafting toolkit. Whether you’re a seasoned upcycler or just dipping your toes into the world of DIY, these colors will inspire you to create something truly special.


Close-up view of a vintage wooden chair painted in soft pastel blue
Soft pastel blue painted vintage chair

Why I Love These Popular Dixie Belle Hues


Let’s be honest - choosing paint colors can sometimes feel overwhelming. There are so many shades, finishes, and brands out there. But Dixie Belle has this way of making it easy and fun. Their palette is thoughtfully curated, with colors that blend vintage charm and modern flair. Plus, the quality? Oh, it’s top-notch. The paint goes on smoothly, covers beautifully, and dries to a finish that’s both durable and dreamy.


Here are a few reasons why these popular Dixie Belle hues have won my heart:


  • Versatility: From soft neutrals to bold statement colors, there’s something for every project.

  • Rich pigmentation: You get vibrant, true-to-color results without needing multiple coats.

  • Easy distressing: If you love that shabby chic look, these paints sand back beautifully.

  • Eco-friendly: Low VOC and water-based, so you can craft without worrying about harsh fumes.


Now, let’s dive into some of my absolute favorite colors and how I use them.


My Top Picks for Popular Dixie Belle Hues


1. Cotton - The Perfect Neutral Base


Cotton is like that trusty white tee in your wardrobe - simple, classic, and goes with everything. It’s a soft, creamy white that brightens up any piece without feeling stark or cold. I often use Cotton as a base coat or for pieces where I want a clean, fresh look that still feels warm and inviting.


Pro tip: Pair Cotton with a gentle distressing technique to reveal hints of wood or darker undercoats for a timeless farmhouse vibe.


2. Drop Cloth - Warm and Inviting


If you want a neutral that’s a bit richer, Drop Cloth is your go-to. It’s a warm beige with subtle gray undertones, perfect for creating cozy, lived-in looks. I’ve used Drop Cloth on everything from side tables to picture frames, and it always adds a touch of understated elegance.


3. Fluff - Soft and Dreamy


Fluff is a pale, airy pink that’s perfect for adding a hint of sweetness to your projects. It’s subtle enough to work in a variety of settings but still brings a lovely softness. I love using Fluff on kids’ furniture or decorative items that need a gentle pop of color.



Eye-level view of a vintage dresser painted in vibrant turquoise
Vintage dresser painted in vibrant turquoise

4. Drop Cloth - The Cozy Neutral


Drop Cloth is a warm, creamy beige that works beautifully as a neutral backdrop. It’s perfect when you want a soft, inviting look without going too white. I often use it on larger pieces like cabinets or bookshelves to create a cozy, timeless feel.


5. Caviar - Deep and Dramatic


For those who love a bit of drama, Caviar is a deep, rich black that adds sophistication and depth. It’s perfect for accent pieces or to create contrast when paired with lighter colors. I’ve used Caviar on chair legs and drawer pulls to give them a sleek, modern edge.


What is the difference between Dixie Belle chalk paint and silk paint?


Now, if you’re wondering about the difference between Dixie Belle’s chalk paint and their silk paint, you’re not alone. I had the same question when I first started experimenting with their products. Here’s the lowdown:


  • Chalk Paint: This is the classic, matte-finish paint that Dixie Belle is famous for. It’s thick, easy to work with, and perfect for that vintage, distressed look. Chalk paint adheres well to most surfaces without much prep, which is a huge plus for quick projects. It’s also great for layering and creating texture.


  • Silk Paint: As the name suggests, silk paint has a smoother, more satin-like finish. It’s less chalky and offers a bit more sheen, making it ideal for pieces where you want a polished, refined look. Silk paint is also more durable and easier to clean, so it’s a smart choice for high-traffic furniture or items that get a lot of use.


Personally, I keep both on hand because they serve different purposes. If I’m going for a rustic, cozy vibe, chalk paint is my go-to. But when I want something sleek and modern, silk paint steps in to save the day.


How to Choose the Right Dixie Belle Paint Color for Your Project


Choosing the right color can feel like a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some tips that have helped me pick the perfect shade every time:


  1. Consider the piece’s purpose: Is it a statement piece or a subtle accent? Bold colors like Dixie Belle Blue or Turquoise work well for statement pieces, while neutrals like Cotton or Drop Cloth are great for blending in.


  2. Think about the room’s vibe: Warm colors create cozy spaces, while cool tones can make a room feel calm and serene.


  3. Test samples: Don’t be shy about painting small swatches on your piece or a test board. Lighting can change how a color looks, so seeing it in your space is key.


  4. Mix and match: Sometimes combining two or three colors can create a unique look. For example, a dresser painted in Cotton with Caviar drawer pulls can be stunning.


  5. Use the right finish: Remember, chalk paint and silk paint offer different finishes. Choose based on the look and durability you want.


Tips for Using Dixie Belle Paint Colors Like a Pro


Okay, so you’ve picked your colors. Now what? Here are some of my favorite tips to get the best results:


  • Prep your surface: Even though Dixie Belle paints are forgiving, a clean, dry surface always helps. Light sanding can improve adhesion, especially on glossy finishes.


  • Use quality brushes or foam rollers: This makes a huge difference in the smoothness of your finish.


  • Apply thin coats: It’s tempting to slather on paint, but thin layers dry better and reduce drips.


  • Distress with care: If you want that vintage look, sand gently after the paint dries to reveal layers or wood beneath.


  • Seal your work: Use Dixie Belle’s topcoats or waxes to protect your masterpiece and enhance the finish.


High angle view of a crafting table with brushes, paint cans, and painted wooden signs
Crafting table with brushes and Dixie Belle paint cans

Where to Find the Best Dixie Belle Paint Colors


If you’re ready to dive into the world of Dixie Belle, check out our booth in champions painted tree and online Patina Lane. They have an amazing selection of dixie belle paint colors and all the supplies you need to get started. Plus, their team is super helpful if you have questions or need advice on your next project.


Shopping there feels like joining a community of fellow antique lovers and creative DIYers who are just as passionate about restoration as you are. It’s a great place to find inspiration and support.


Bringing Your Vintage Treasures Back to Life


At the end of the day, it’s not just about the paint. It’s about the joy of creating something beautiful with your own hands. Whether you’re reviving a family heirloom or giving a thrift store find a second chance, the right colors can make all the difference.


So go ahead, grab your brushes, pick your favorite popular Dixie Belle hues, and start crafting your next masterpiece. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of seeing an old piece transformed into something fresh, vibrant, and uniquely yours.


Happy painting!

 
 
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Step 1: Decoupage Application

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To kick off, I prepped the MDF board canvas for the decoupage application. I grabbed my Posh Chalk Smooth & Blend Brush and applied a generous coat of Cotton Magic Paint onto the entire surface of the board. The Smooth & Blend Brush is perfect for this, allowing me to easily create a smooth and consistent finish. Having a smooth surface like this is very important for a successful decoupage application, and I also believe that a white base coat is crucial to really bring out the design’s colours.


To expedite the drying process, I pulled out my trusty heat gun and force-dried the painted canvas, which allowed me to move to the next step without having to wait around. For this project, I specifically chose the Posh Chalk Peonies & Plumes Decoupage Paper. Its intricate floral designs and rich colours provided a stunning backdrop for the blue tones I planned to incorporate. I aimed to use the bottom half of this design, so I carefully used a water pen to tear the paper rather than cutting with scissors. This technique results in a beautifully frayed edge that adds to the aged, vintage look I desired.


Once I had torn off the section I needed, I held it up to see how it aligned with my canvas, and I could already envision the beautiful piece that was beginning to take shape! With the decoupage paper prepared, it was time to apply the Posh Chalk Pigment Infusor. I applied some infusor onto one half of the canvas, using my Smooth & Blend Brush to spread it evenly across the surface.


Next, I carefully positioned the torn section of decoupage onto the wet infusor. Using a dry Smooth & Blend Brush, I gently smoothed the decoupage down, starting from the center and working my way outwards. It was crucial to lift sections gently, and smooth out any creases or air bubbles that formed during this stage. I then repeated this technique with the other half of my decoupage. Doing this one half at a time makes it much easier to smooth out any imperfections that form.


Once the decoupage was laid down smoothly, I applied another coat of infusor on top of the paper to seal it. This seals the decoupage to the surface and, due to the infusor also acting as an outdoor grade sealant, helps to ensure durability. After this, I forced dried everything once again with the heat gun – already looking good!


Step 2: WoodUbend Applique and Trim Application

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The next stage involved adding some dimensionality to my panel by attaching a beautiful WoodUbend Applique (WUB1372.48) to the top. Warmth is key with these appliques, so I used a heat gun to ensure it became fully malleable and easy to work with. Given its larger size and thickness, it took a little extra time to warm up.


Once ready, I applied WoodUglue to the back of the applique using a small brush. Spreading it evenly ensured that every part would adhere properly. Because the applique retains heat so well, the WoodUglue was activated almost instantly!


I carefully positioned the applique at the top of my canvas and pressed it down. As I did, a bit of glue seeped out along the edges, but I easily cleaned this with a wet paintbrush. I heated the applique once more then pressed it down firmly to secure its placement.


Next up was our trim TR805. I warmed it with the heat gun, measured the necessary length against my canvas, and cut off an appropriate sized section. After applying WoodUglue and ensuring it covered the entire footprint, I placed it along the bottom edge of the canvas and heated it once more in situ for a secure hold.


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Step 3: Painting with Paste

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Now that the structural elements were in place, it was time to bring in some colour. I began by spritzing the entire surface with water. This was particularly important because I planned to use Posh Chalk Metallic Pastes – a damp surface allows for better coverage, reducing the amount of paste needed and helping the colours blend beautifully.


Using a Posh Chalk Mouldings Brush, I stippled Posh Chalk Blue Prussian Metallic Paste onto the applique at the top of my canvas. The rich blue added depth, and the damp surface allowed the paste to glide on smoothly. After getting coverage on the trim, I switched to a Smooth & Blend Brush to drag the paste down across the canvas, creating a cohesive look.


Next, I wiped away any excess paste with a paper towel, ensuring a clean and polished finish. But I wasn’t done! I repeated the process for the trim using the Blue Fhthalo and Brown Van Dyke pastes, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.


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Step 4: Creative Techniques with Athenian Plaster

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I wanted my pice to have a layered effect, so next I incorporated some stencilling with Posh Chalk Athenian Plaster. I decanted some of my plaster into a pot and mixed it with Arctic White and Royal Indigo Colour Kicks until I achieved a lovely pale blue shade that matched the overall theme.


I placed my chosen stencil, the Posh Chalk Mystery Thorns Stencil, on the canvas before starting to trowel the coloured plaster on top of the stencil. The Finishing Trowel made the application easy and ensured even coverage.


As I peeled back the stencil, my heart swelled with how perfectly the design came together. A small amount of plaster had spilled onto the rest of the canvas, so this was wiped off with a baby wipe before I moved on. Then, due to the stencil’s repeatable design, I could perfectly align it and continue filling the entire width of the canvas.


Our Athenian Plaster is super versatile and I still wanted to do more with it. So after force drying the stencilling I began dabbing more of it onto the surface, using a sea sponge. This method introduced unique textures that would make the piece truly special.


While dabbing, I focused on specific sections, ensuring the decoupage design still showed through. Using my Finishing Trowel, I flattened the dabbed on patches to maintain a layered effect while creating a smooth finish that could be polished later. This layering of different creative techniques not only created visual interest but also added a tactile dimension to the piece.


I continued stencilling, dabbing, and flattening until I was satisfied with the textured look of my panel and had filled the space in the centre of my canvas.


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Step 5: Finishing Touches

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After allowing everything to dry naturally, I moved on to sanding the surface using a belt sander. This step created a beautiful glossy, mirror-like finish with our Athenian Plaster.


I took my time with this part, ensuring that I maintained an even surface. The last stage of my project involved adding final touches with washes of my chosen metallic pastes – Blue Prussian, Dark Green, and Brown Van Dyke. To do this, I kept the surface slightly damp and began to apply the different colours in key areas.


Each application presented an opportunity for dynamic effects. The dampness allowed the colours to blend seamlessly, and using baby wipes and paper towels, I wiped away any excess paste as I went along. The result was a stunning tapestry of hues that tied the entire piece together beautifully.



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And there you have it folks! My Blue Decoupage & Plaster Panel was complete. It’s a testament to the power of mixing different techniques – decoupage, plastering, stencilling and washes – resulting in a cohesive, beautiful piece of art that I fell in love with during the process. I hope it not only inspires you but also encourages you to take on your own unique projects. Don’t hesitate to experiment with colours and designs that resonate with you – the possibilities are endless!


Thank you for joining me on this creative journey. If you enjoyed this post or found it helpful, please give it a like and leave your thoughts in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your own projects or any techniques you wish to share! If you’re interested in more creative content, don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for weekly project updates. Until next time, happy crafting!


Products Used:




 
 
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Step 1: Apply Base Coat & Crackling Gel

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To start our creative project, I applied a base coat of blue Magic Paint to the entire canvas. This coat sets the foundation for the beautiful colours I planned to layer on top later. Using a Posh Chalk Wax Extender Brush, I made sure to cover the entire canvas thoroughly.


Once the base coat was dry, I moved on to applying Posh Chalk Crackling Gel. I used a Posh Chalk Smooth & Blend Brush to spread the gel evenly across the canvas. This gel is essential in creating those coveted crackle effects later in the project, so I wanted to ensure it was applied smoothly and thoroughly which the Smooth & Blend Brushes are perfect for.


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Step 2: Mix & Create Coloured Pastes

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Now it was time to mix our coloured pastes. I decanted some Posh Chalk Crackling Paste into a few convenient pots. I decided to create a palette of colours that echoed the warm and dreamy hues of a sunset.


The first thing I did was take my first pot of paste and add Posh Chalk Colour Kicks. I started with Bright Scarlet and Dandelion Yellow for a vibrant orange. Initially, I noticed the red overpowering the yellow, so I added a bit more yellow to get that perfect sunset orange.


For my second pot, I chose Pine Forest as the base. I wanted a dark green but found the colour too light. So, I added some Ebony Noir to darken it slightly. However, it turned out to be closer to an olive shade for my liking, so I balanced it out with a drop of Dandelion Yellow and Aegean Ocean, which gave birth to a lovely dark green shade.


Next, I combined Aegean Ocean and Royal Indigo in the third pot, resulting in a stunning deep blue that perfectly matched my theme. I wanted a lighter blue as well, so I mixed a fourth pot using Aegean Ocean and just a dab of Pine Forest. The result was a soft turquoise, reminiscent of twilight skies.


With all my colours ready and looking beautiful, it was time to move on to the next step of my creative project.

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Step 3: Applying Coloured Pastes

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I took my sea sponge and lightly spritzed it with water to get it moist but not dripping. I began dabbing my coloured pastes onto the canvas, starting from the bottom and working my way up. The dabbing technique allowed me to create unique textures, and as I transitioned between colours, I could see them beautifully blending into one another in situ.


My intent here was to replicate the blocks of colours seen in a sunset—rich oranges giving way to deep greens and blues. As I worked, I let the colours overlap slightly, creating new shades right on the canvas. Seeing my creative project start to come to life was mesmerising; it felt like I was painting the sky!


Once I was satisfied with the application of the coloured pastes, it was crucial to flatten the raised textures left by the sea sponge. I took my Posh Chalk Premium Finishing Trowel and worked horizontally across the canvas. This technique helped maintain the sunset effect while smoothing out any uneven spots.


I carefully cleaned my trowel after each stroke to preserve the individual colours and avoid any unintended mixing. After flattening the texture, I dried the entire canvas using a heat gun. It was exciting to see the cracks starting to form as the heat activated the Crackling Gel and Paste!


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Step 4: Stencilling with Athenian Plaster

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With the canvas dried and crackling beautifully, the next step for my creative project was sanding down the surface. This was essential for ensuring that my stencil would adhere properly without any bleeding. After I sanded, I took care to brush away the excess dust that had accumulated in the cracks. This will ensure a smooth surface for my stencil to adhere to—which is vital for a perfect stencil application.


For the stencil design, I chose the Posh Chalk Oriental Garden Premium Stencil, perfect for complementing my creative project’s fairytale theme. I mounted it onto the canvas using spray glue and made sure it was firmly in place.


Now it was time for the Athenian Plaster! I decanted some Posh Chalk Athenian Plaster into a separate pot and mixed it with the Ebony Noir and Mocha Delight Posh Chalk Colour Kicks to create a lovely dark grey colour. With a Finishing Trowel in hand, I applied the plaster over the stencil, making sure the application was even and thorough.


Once I peeled the stencil off, I was amazed to see the delicate design emerge against the vibrant background. The dark grey colour I had created made the design look like a silhouette against our sunset backdrop. To speed up the process, I then dried the plaster with my heat gun. Watching the details come alive was such an exhilarating moment!


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Step 5: WoodUbend Applique Preparation & Application

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Moving on, my creative project needed a final piece to feel complete. I selected the Applique WUB2280 for this (a gorgeous ‘fairy door’). First I pre-painted the WoodUbend applique using the dark grey Athenian Plaster mix I used previously. To ensure that every nook and cranny was filled with colour, I spritzed it lightly with water before applying the mixture with a Posh Chalk Mouldings Brush.


Using my heat gun, I killed two birds with one stone; not only did I dry the plaster, the heat made the fairydoor nice and pliable, perfect for the application to the canvas. I spread a layer of WoodUbend WoodUglue over its entire footprint, giving it a quick once over with the heat gun to activate the glue before firmly pressing it into place on my canvas.


Now, I wanted to add some detailing to my piece to give it depth and dimension. I decanted some Orange Gold and Smoky Charcoal Posh Chalk Pigments onto an old WoodUbend MDF Board, which served as my mixing palette. Gradually, I added Posh Chalk Pigment Infusor to create a paste. Initially, the Orange Gold was quite overpowering, but after adding more Smoky Charcoal, I achieved the desired shade.


Using a dry brush technique, I lightly brushed this paste over the entire applique. The shimmering finish added a touch of magic, and I immediately fell in love with how it transformed the look of the piece.

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Step 6: Final Touches & Shading

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To complete my creative project, I wanted to give the raised stencil design a polished and glossy finish since, when you sand the Athenian Plaster, it becomes polished.  I pulled out my belt sander and started sanding the surface, gradually moving up in sandpaper grits with each pass. As I progressed, I could see the glimmering effect starting to emerge. This step is essential for achieving a glossy and professional-looking finish.


The last step was adding depth through shading. I opted for the Posh Chalk Black Patina to achieve this effect. I carefully applied it around the appliqué and along the edges of the canvas, creating defined lines and enhancing the overall design’s contrast.


To finish, I feathered out the shading using a Posh Chalk Wax Extender Brush and Posh Chalk Patina Extending Wax, ensuring it blended smoothly into the background. This step not only creates depth but also acts as a protective sealant that safeguards my artwork from potential damage.


Once satisfied with the shading, I wiped off any excess wax with a paper towel to avoid any clumps drying, completing my lovely Crackling Plaster Fairytale design.


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  • Posh Chalk Crackling Gel

  • Posh Chalk Crackling Paste

  • Posh Chalk Pine Forest Colour Kick

  • Posh Chalk Dandelion Yellow Colour Kick

  • Posh Chalk Aegean Ocean Colour Kick

  • Posh Chalk Royal Indigo Colour Kick

  • Posh Chalk Bright Scarlet Colour Kick

  • Posh Chalk Mocha Delight Colour Kick

  • Posh Chalk Ebony Noir Colour Kick

  • Posh Chalk Wax Extender Brush

  • Posh Chalk Smooth & Blend Brush

  • Posh Chalk Mouldings Brush

  • Posh Chalk Premium Finishing Trowel

  • Posh Chalk Oriental Garden Stencil

  • Posh Chalk Athenian Plaster

  • WoodUbend Applique WUB2280

  • WoodUbend WoodUglue

  • Posh Chalk Pigments Orange Gold 

  • Posh Chalk Pigments Smoky Charcoal

  • Posh Chalk Black Patina


Catch all Posh Chalk and Woodubend products online at patina lane here.

 
 

PATINA LANE by Linda Carter Designs

 

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