Hello everyone!
I'm Karen, my passion is finding quirky market pieces and transforming them into perfectly imperfect treasures. As a Frenchic stockist for nearly eight years, I now run regular paint effect workshops, sharing my furniture painting and découpage techniques to achieve a beautiful, naturally aged look with lots of textured patina.
I went to Art College in my late teens and loved textile design. On reflection that’s probably because I like things to be unique, I never want what everyone else has. I think that has played a big part in the joy I find in creating one-of-a-kind pieces.
Specialising in the French look came naturally as I’ve always been drawn to antiques and classic, French elegance (there’s something about old distressed French doors that I can’t resist!). For me, the more chipped and distressed the better.
These skills have taken me to work on a number of TV projects and to running a weekly painting club – where I discovered the power of creativity. Bringing people together, getting stuck into a hands-on project and having a giggle is better than any medicine.
Ready to Get Creative?
3 Quick and Easy Tips for Creating Aged Effects on Furniture
Karen talks us through how to create texture, distress your pieces for the aged look, and how to use Frenchic wax.
Find out Karen’s signature style and inspiration, most memorable projects and where she finds her antique gems.
When Decoupaging With Napkins, How Do I Create a Flawless Finish?
The word découpage comes from the French verb découper, meaning 'to cut out', Karen shows us how to master the look.
My favourite project
The process of creating my demilune was a joy—a chance to be fully in the moment, lose myself in the work, and use a range of skills to bring my vision to life. I wanted to capture the look of an old French château, something pretty, timeless, and full of that unmistakable faded grandeur. It’s bursting with character and charm.
For the colours, I chose Sugar Puff, Grey Pebble, and Posh Nelly from Frenchic’s Original Artisan Range and French Shutter Chalk Wall Paint—proof that wall paint can work beautifully on furniture too. To add a touch of gilded elegance, I mixed Gorgeous Gold Frensheen with Browning Wax, creating the most stunning antique gold finish. A delicate paint inlay added the perfect finishing touch to complement the cupboard’s curves. I blended Browning Wax with Clear Wax to create a softly aged, authentic look.
My favourite project
The process of creating my demilune was a joy—a chance to be fully in the moment, lose myself in the work, and use a range of skills to bring my vision to life. I wanted to capture the look of an old French château, something pretty, timeless, and full of that unmistakable faded grandeur. It’s bursting with character and charm.
For the colours, I chose Sugar Puff, Grey Pebble, and Posh Nelly from Frenchic’s Original Artisan Range and French Shutter Chalk Wall Paint—proof that wall paint can work beautifully on furniture too. To add a touch of gilded elegance, I mixed Gorgeous Gold Frensheen with Browning Wax, creating the most stunning antique gold finish. A delicate paint inlay added the perfect finishing touch to complement the cupboard’s curves. I blended Browning Wax with Clear Wax to create a softly aged, authentic look.
Colours I love
For me, the timeless elegance of the classic French look is all about soft, rustic, and muted tones - with a hint of warmth and welcome. These are the Frenchic shades I return to time and time again when upcycling my latest antique find.
Ask me anything
Found your furniture and chosen the perfect colour but just not sure where to start? I’m here with all the hands-on advice and support you need. From creating the perfect crackle to getting to grips with distressed effects - if you’ve got a question, I’m here to help.
Ask me anything
Found your furniture and chosen the perfect colour but just not sure where to start? I’m here with all the hands-on advice and support you need. From creating the perfect crackle to getting to grips with distressed effects - if you’ve got a question, I’m here to help.
