Yes the gray primer looked the best it had more contrast I have a similar project same colors and I'm looking for the same texture to make it look realistic thanks for sharing your different steps involved in a nice rustic finish. God-bless.
Thank you for demonstrating your experimental work .....as a lover of industrial work effects old metal ....wood....ceramics and distressed looks this is very helpful I just❤ it.......and will try a few of your methods .....hugs from Scotland 🤗
Peanut butter. Never saw that coming. Did you put a sealant over top? The paints you are using; are they acrylics or solvent based? That gray slight edge is perfect!