How do I redo an old desk by adding a texture onto it?

Question

I want to redo an old desk. It's in good shape, but it's not great wood and it's been painted a few times. I love the shape and style, but it's just not smooth anymore. Is there anything I can use (a paint?) to add some sort of texture onto it? Would that look odd?

I was thinking of adding sand into the paint..thoughts?

Answer 1

sand can work, but there are paints that have texture already, go to the home improvement store

Answer 2

As already mentioned you can already buy textured paint but if you want a particular colour that isn't ready made, sand is a good cheap option - although it will give you a very rough finish.

The other option if you want to restore it is buying an appropriate paint stripper and starting again.

If you want that textured paint look through I would recommend buying some cut glass to top the desk with - this way it will be easy to clean and you can work on the smooth surface.

Answer 3

You can actually buy paint at Lowe's or Home Depot that already has grit in it.  It has a rough finish.  Just go check out the paint samples.  Not sure how well this would work on a desk though.  It might be hard to clean.  Have you thought about covering it with hodge-podged torn out magazine pictures and words?  I have a friend who covered a desk with old 1950's magazine pics.  Use hodge podge glue all over to glue them down, then cover with a clear glaze after it's dry.  Looks really cool.