Apply a base coat of low gloss latex enamel. We are using a yellow ocher in beige tones. Other options for a wood look include burnt sienna and red rust. For a wild non-wood look, use any color.
Brush a dab of gel onto the base coated project. Slide a wooden rocker through the wet glaze, rocking slowly at intervals to create a wood grain effect. Start at one end of the stroke and continue in one continuous motion to the other end.
Continue, stroke after stroke, wiping off the collected polish from the rocker as you go. Vary the look from row to row by using the rocker's notched edge to comb the glaze instead of rocking it. Using the two patterns alternately will give you a natural wood grain look.
When a surface is combed but before the polish dries completely, use a brush or clean rag to re-coat the surface lightly to smooth out the grain.
When the paint is completely dry, seal the surface with a coat or two of clear polyurethane sealer.
