Abstract: A water based crackle finish for surfaces includes a base coating having a low molecular weight polymer dissolved in an aqueous solution. Disposed on the dried base coating is a coating having an aqueous emulsion of a high molecular weight polymer which is dried. If desired, a stain coating, a sealer coating and a glaze coating and combinations thereof may be disposed on the surface under the base coating. Also, if desired, a fly-speck coating and a top coating may be applied over the crackle coating. A method of applying the coating is disclosed.