How do I finish a poplar wood ceiling to give it an aged ranch look@?

Question

We are building a rustic ranch style house. We installed poplar wood paneling on the ceiling because reclaimed wood did not fit our budget. We applied a grey stain, however, it just looks flat. What can I do to make the ceiling appear to be old aged barnwood?

Answer 1

The stain needs more depth, darker at the seams.  I would use a wood tone stain, then use a darker stain near the seams of the wood and make sure it blends well.  You could try adding a darker shade & wiping as much as you can from the middle of each plank.

Answer 2

You could also give it a bit of character by damaging it a bit.  Nothing serious, just a few nicks and scratches.  It would give your ceiling some age and wear.