See my honest review after trying all the Rub ‘n Buff Golds, along with a comparison and how to use this metallic wax finish in the home.
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I love using Rub ‘n Buff. A couple of years ago, I first started using the gold Rub ‘n Buff colors during some small home improvement projects. I have since grown to love using this metallic wax finish. It looks professional, sticks better than regular paint, and adds more dimension than spray paint.
Since discovering it, I’ve used it for rejuvenating some old cabinet hardware, adding authentic gold to picture frames, and sprucing up some towel racks.
It’s an affordable way to make an update, as a little goes a long way. Plus, it’s just super easy to apply to metal fixtures and pieces. I really can’t recommend it enough!
Today, in particular, I want to show you a comparison of the different Rub ‘n Buff golds. There are several of them and each one has a slightly different hue.
They really add style and elegance to worn pieces and can even add an original, antique look to more modern ones.
Rub ‘n Buff Golds
Why Use Rub ‘n Buff
There are many reasons I recommend using Rub ‘n Buff. A small amount stretches throughout multiple small projects. It is easy to use and cures in a reasonable amount of time. Additionally, I love that there are so many colors to choose from. They give plain items a refresh with some fresh color and style. I happen to think they look more original and match real metals closer than a spray paint would.
In addition to the golds I’ll be mentioning in this post, there are silvers, black, and copper colors too.
Rub ‘n Buff Golds Comparison
European Gold Less saturated finish with an authentic gold look reminiscent of true European gold with a natural luster.
Autumn Gold Autumn Gold has more of an orange undertone that gives it a closer look to copper (but more saturated than the Spanish Copper Rub ‘n Buff).
Grecian Gold Ancient gold derived from Greek times. This one looks brighter than some of the previously mentioned gold colors, but adds depth with a brown hue.
Gold Leaf Traditional gold color that’s bright with yellow undertones.
Antique Gold I like to use antique gold to picture frames to add an antique style to them (along with the ebony Rub ‘n Buff color). A more warm gold with copper tones throughout.
How to Use Rub ‘n Buff Gold Colors
The Rub ‘n Buff Golds are so easy to use. There are just a few simple steps to follow to be successful.
- Prep and clean surface
- Dab on and spread rub n’ buff (rub in and buff out)
- Reapply as needed
- Air dry for 24 hours to cure completely before use
What to Use Rub ‘n Buff Golds On
I love using these colors on small projects around the home. These are great for sprucing up practically any metal. They can be used on many different objects and surfaces!
Objects
- Screws and nails
- Picture frames
- Towel holders, hooks, and racks
- Cabinet hinges, handles, pulls, and knobs
- Flower pots and planters
- Light fixtures
- Candlesticks
Surfaces
- Ceramic
- Metal
- Glass
- Wood
- Plastic
Tips for Using
I prefer adding a black spray paint to coat existing pieces before adding any gold Rub ‘n Buff. This is a personal preference, but I find it gives a more true color to pieces by adding a dark undertone first. Especially if you are wanting to leave it looking more antique with some black streaks left in with the gold.
Use a q-tip, napkin, cloth, or any other small application piece to rub and buff this metallic wax in.
Be sure to give it 24 hours to fully cure before using. This is especially true for cabinet hardware that will be used frequently. It may dry sooner, but it really needs 24 hours to cure or it will begin rubbing off quickly.
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