How to add weathering to fresh-sawn wood

I make picture frames from old barn boards, and you know the problem: When I saw a piece to size, I expose light-colored wood that looks like it just came from a store. Is there a way to create a rustic, weathered look on fresh-sawn wood?
—Robert Kirkpatrick, Oregonia, Ohio

Start by scrubbing the sawn area with a stiff steel brush to create texture, Bob, and then take care of the color. Several products promise "instant weathering." We've had success with one called Age-It Easy (Gray). It creates a chemical reaction that turns light wood gray in minutes. Brush on a thin coat, wait a few minutes, and compare the treated area to the weathered portion. If the result isn't dark enough, brush on a bit more. We bought a 3.5-ounce bottle of Age-It Easy for $9 from Micro-Mark, a company that sells a wide variety of hobby supplies. Phone (800) 225-1066.