Many years ago, my mom introduced me to a product called Rub ‘n Buff. I had never heard of it before so I got researching! I was immediately hooked and needed it ASAP! In true Stephanie fashion, I went out and bought all 12 colors and have been living happily ever after since! I have used it on so many of my DIY projects and home decor!
Let me fill you in on one of my best kept crafting secrets…!!!
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What Is Rub ‘n Buff?
The original wax metallic finish! Formulated from carnauba waxes, fine metallic powders, and select pigments, for a finish no paint can duplicate. It comes in a little tube and is similar to a shiny, textured paste.
What Surfaces Can Rub ‘n Buff Be Used On?
The paste can be used on painted surfaces, metal, wood, ceramics, plastic, glass, metal and more. It’s easy to apply and can completely transform any item in a matter of minutes! I love to use it on antiques, frames, crafts and home decor.
Color Options
There are 12 different metallic colors to choose from! My personal favorites are in the gold family. Check out this post to see where I compared the different gold colors.
- Gold Leaf
- Antique Gold
- Grecian Gold
- European Gold
- Autumn Gold
- Antique White
- Ebony
- Pewter
- Silver Leaf
- Spanish Copper
- Ruby
- Patina
How To Apply and Use
- Choose your color
- Prepare your item. Ensure that it is clean and the surface is dry. Rub ‘n Buff can be applied to painted surfaces, metal, wood, ceramics and more
- Using your finger, a soft cloth or Q-tip, gently apply the paste in a rubbing fashion to your item
- Buff with a soft cloth for more shine. Light circular motions work best.
- I personally have found that depending on the metallic color I choose to use, I have had to apply multiple layers of the wax paste to achieve my desired color.
Drying Time
Once applied, it dries fairly quickly to the touch. If the finish is not as dark/thick as you’d like, apply another coat.
I generally allow about 30-45 minutes of drying time before I buff with a soft cloth.
My Previous Projects
I have used Rub ‘n Buff on many surfaces and for many projects in the past! My thrift store lamp is by far my favorite makeover with Antique Gold. I have applied it to photo frames, ceramic planters, metal baskets, door knobs, mirror frames…and even dresser knobs!
In my opinion, it is best used on items that aren’t used often, items that are better suited for decor items. High use items can show signs of wear, so in order to preserve the newly finished look, I prefer to use it on decor items.
Where To Buy?
Limited color selections of can be bought at Hobby Lobby. I prefer to purchase through Amazon as I can buy all 12 colors in one shot, for a more affordable price.
What Does It Look Like Once Applied?
It’s a bit tricky to figure out what color to use on your project based off of the color of the tube. To easily identify which color I would like to use, I applied all 12 colors to sterling silver spoons.
I photographed each color in various angles to give you the best perspective of what they look like!
Before… each spoon was a basic sterling silver kitchen spoon.
After! – with just 1 coat and no buffing
As you can see, the colors are GORGEOUS! Every color has such a unique look to it! Perfect for the DIYer who wants to update items on the cheap!
The options are endless. Let your creativity flow with this super affordable and exceptionally easy product to use!
What item in your home could use a transformation makeover? Tell me in the comments!
Carol Lee says
Your information and “color chart” with the spoons helps a lot! I do have a question I cannot find the answer to. Maybe you can help. I want to change some nickel plated candlesticks into white with gold for the French look. Can I use white R&B and then gold R&B to achieve this or do you have another solution? Any info would be most appreciated,
Carol Lee
clee22765@gmail.com
Stephanie says
Hi Carol!
The white rub ‘n buff is pretty light… so, yes, you could try that method. Or, if I were you, I would spray paint the candlesticks with Rustoleum Heirloom White (aff link) https://bit.ly/3mDF4QZ . let them dry and then come back with the gold rub ‘n buff! You can see a similar tutorial here: https://gatheredinthekitchen.com/how-to-create-a-high-end-look-with-gold-leaf/
Carrie says
Who h color is closest to aged brass- European gold. Thank you for your article!
deborah j trescott says
Would this work on kitchen cabinet hinges? Not the knobs and drawer pulls (I have new knobs and drawer pulls I’m going to be putting on). My current hinges are darker brass looking and do not match my new Pewter knobs and drawer pulls and I can’t afford to buy all new hinges. Would Rub ‘n Buff work on my hinges? Thank you!
Stephanie says
Hi Deborah! Yes, it absolutely would! I would search on Pinterest for some testimonials of others using it on their hinges! Good luck!
Brittany says
Hi I’m wondering if you ever did a clear coat to protective finish like rustoleum ?
Stephanie says
Hi Brittany, I have not ever added a clear protective coat over top of the Rub ‘n Buff
susan corio says
Can you use rub and buff on an engraved casserole dish that requires to be use in an oven?
Paul Kelley says
I have clear glass plates that have a decorative design etched into the back surface. I would like to color the etched area. Would Rub n Buff work for that? What Rub n Buff product should be used and what is the process?
ellen wallace says
I have a large metal smooth lamp shade. It has brush lines done in a bronze. Want to change them to pewter. How can I get the smooth straight brush lines with a pewter rub n buff…Can I use a large one or two inch paint brush and how to create brush lines on the black and bronze metal to make more pewter than bronze? please respond asap thanks
Stephanie says
Hi Ellen,
I would tape off the lines with painters tape and then only apply the Rub ‘n Buff inside the painters tape areas. Best of luck!