
A Fireplace Makeover Using Fusion Mineral Paint and Stain & Finishing Oil as a Faux Glaze.
This fireplace has been white since I installed it many years ago. I loved its look initially, but over time, it started to feel tired and a bit too frilly. With some extra time around the holidays, I decided it was the perfect moment to tackle a makeover!
Materials and Affiliate Link
- Fusion Mineral Paint – Ash
- Fusion Mineral Paint Stain & Finishing Oil – Driftwood (commonly referred to as SFO)
- Brushes (a small artist’s brush for detail work and a regular brush for larger surfaces)
- Clean, lint-free cloths for wiping back excess glaze
- Cleaner/Degreaser (I used Fusion TSP Alternative)
Affiliate Link & Coupon (North America only):
I receive a small commission on Fusion™ Mineral Paint products purchased through my affiliate link, plus you can enjoy a 10% discount by using my coupon code HomerevivalFMP at checkout.
(This link and coupon only work for North America.)
Prep and Paint with Fusion Mineral Paint Ash
- Clean the Fireplace
Always start by thoroughly cleaning your surface to remove dust, grease, or residue. I used Fusion’s TSP, which is a great degreaser. - Apply Two Coats of Fusion Mineral Paint
- Paint the fireplace (or your chosen piece) with Ash, a rich charcoal gray.
- Allow each coat to dry fully according to the instructions on the paint jar (usually 2–4 hours between coats).
I painted it on a live video over on Facebook and left it unfinished for quite a while
Creating a Faux Glaze with Driftwood Stain & Finishing Oil
Once your painted surface is fully dry (I let mine sit for a day or two), it’s time to create the glazed effect using Fusion Mineral Paint’s Driftwood Stain & Finishing Oil.
Why Use Stain & Finishing Oil as a Faux Glaze?
It settles into detailed areas beautifully, giving you a more pronounced faux effect around moldings, carvings, or textured sections of furniture.
It’s typically designed for raw wood, but when used thinly, it can serve as both a glaze and a protective topcoat over painted surfaces.

Ash
Apply and Wipe Back
- Brush On
- Use a small, detailed brush to apply the Driftwood SFO in the grooves and trim to accentuate architectural details.
- Work in small sections so the product doesn’t dry before you can wipe it back.
- Wait About 5 Minutes
- Let the oil set up just a bit, allowing it to adhere slightly to your painted surface.
- Wipe Back
- Take a clean cloth and gently wipe away the excess.
- You control how much or how little glaze remains by how much you wipe back.
(This process not only gives you a gorgeous glazed look, but it also protects the paint, cutting out the need for a separate topcoat.)


After applying all over in sections I let it set up and grab at the paint for maybe 5 mins and then wiped back with a clean cloth. Doing it like this you can decide how much or how little stain you’d like to leave behind.

After: A Cozy, Updated Focal Point
By using Fusion Mineral Paint Ash paired with Driftwood Stain & Finishing Oil, you can transform a plain or outdated fireplace into a cozy statement piece. The glaze highlights every decorative edge, adding depth, dimension, and a subtle faux effect.


Bonus Project: TV Cabinet Makeover
I loved how the fireplace turned out so much that I moved on to give my TV cabinet a facelift using the same technique:
- Clean with TSP or your favorite degreaser.
- Paint two coats of Fusion Mineral Paint in Ash.
- Glaze with Driftwood Stain & Finishing Oil, wiping back the excess.
Yes, it’s a bit like Pringles—once you start glazing furniture, you just can’t stop!

Alternative Glaze Options
If you don’t have Driftwood SFO on hand, you can still achieve a similar look by using Fusion’s Clear Glaze tinted with another paint color, such as Algonquin. Simply mix your paint into the glaze, apply, let it set briefly, and wipe back. You’ll get a comparable aged or faux-effect finish that enhances the details.

Fast & Easy: This glaze method is simple and offers a dual benefit—color depth and protection in one step.
Versatile: You can use any Fusion Mineral Paint color as a base, then experiment with different Stain & Finishing Oil shades or tinted glazes.
Protective: Even though SFO is intended for raw wood, a light application over paint serves as a durable topcoat.
My affiliate link, which I will get a small kickback of every sale includes a 10% discount on all Fusion™ Mineral Paint products. THIS LINK ONLY WORKS FOR NORTH AMERICA. Or just add my coupon at the checkout HomerevivalFMP
Check out these other makeover posts!

I found this cute set of Art Deco drawers on Marketplace for a steal and thought they would be perfect for the new Fusion colour Manor Green.
This post will show you how easy it is to get a smooth full coverage solid look using Milk Paint with just a few added steps.

Pin & Share for Later
If this project inspires you, feel free to pin and share! Save it for your next weekend makeover or for the holiday season, when you might want to give your home an extra cozy touch.
Sarah xoxo