Every Holiday with Evelyn Guide
Rub 'n Buff Guide
Add metallic highlights, dimension and an aged finish to nutcrackers and blow molds—without accidentally turning the whole thing gold. 😂✨
First Things First
What is Rub 'n Buff?
Rub 'n Buff is a wax-based metallic finish—not regular acrylic paint. Apply a tiny amount, rub it onto the surface and buff it to increase the shine. It works best on raised details, edges and trim where you want dimension instead of one flat metallic color.
Where Should I Use It?
Use it where light would naturally catch or where molded details need more definition.
Highlight raised buttons, buckles and molded hardware.
Add metallic color to the center or raised parts of a bow.
Use lightly along seams, collars and molded jacket details.
Highlight raised trim without painting the whole hat metallic.
Make raised boot details stand out.
Perfect for scrollwork, texture and molded accents.
Which Shade Should I Pick?
Use the photographed samples above as your main reference. Here is the fast breakdown.
✨ Golds
🩶 Silvers
🖤 Dark & Moody
What You'll Need
Thankfully, the supply list is shorter than the shade debate. 😂
Shop the Supplies ✨
Find Rub 'n Buff shades, sets, surface-prep supplies, gloves and buffing cloths in one place.
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😩 Why Isn't It Sticking?
Rub 'n Buff may slide around on very slick plastic.
Start with a clean, dry surface. Lightly scuffing a compatible area with fine-grit sandpaper can give it more grip. The goal is to dull the shine—not carve new details into your nutcracker. 😂
If sanding is not appropriate, try a compatible primer instead.
Find My Surface Prep SuppliesHow to Apply Rub 'n Buff
Start with less than you think you need. No—less than that. 😂
Use a Tiny Amount
A little goes a very long way.
Work in Small Sections
It sets quickly, so finish one area before moving on.
Focus on Raised Details
Dab or rub it onto edges, seams and accents instead of covering the entire base color.
Buff the Finish
Use a soft cloth to bring out more metallic shine.
Build Slowly
Add more only after stepping back. It is easier to build shine than negotiate with a fully gold-plated nutcracker afterward. 😂
Evelyn's Tip
Want an aged look instead of solid gold?
Let the original paint color stay visible. Concentrate the metallic finish on raised edges, seams and molded details that would naturally catch light. Buff, step back and add more only if needed.
Do I Need to Seal It?
Not always—and this is one place where I have changed my old advice. 😂
🏠 Indoor Pieces
Once the finish has set and been buffed, you may leave an indoor decorative piece unsealed.
☀️ Outdoor or Handled Pieces
Rub 'n Buff is not an outdoor finish. A compatible water-based or acrylic sealer may help protect it, but always test first because clear coats can change the color or sheen.
Clear Finish Options
Check the product directions and test your exact finish before sealing.
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Quick Fixes
It Isn't Sticking
Clean and dry the area. If it is very slick, lightly scuff or prime a compatible surface first.
I Used Too Much
Buff away the excess with a soft cloth while you are still working the area. Use much less on the next section.
It Looks Flat
Buff it with a soft microfiber cloth to bring out more shine.
Ebony Looks Thin or Grainy
Secure the cap and gently massage the tube to recombine the product. Work in a small area and buff the finish.
The Tube Seems Dry
Keep it tightly capped and squeeze out only what you need. The product sets quickly when exposed to air.
Accidentally Created King Midas? 😂
Come show us your metallic trim, vintage finish or happy little gold accident—and search the communities for more real project inspiration.