Popular Faux Painting Techniques Explained
by: Julie Lohmeier
In the last 10 years, faux painting techniques have gone from
obscure to popular, from the realm of professionals to do-it-yourself
projects. These techniques are not difficult although they can
be time consuming (what decorating or remodeling project isn't
though) and require quick hands.
Called "faux" painting because these techniques mimic
or create a false look of stone, texture, leather, and more, you
will find that the styles fall into one of two types: additive
or subtractive. Additive (also called positive) techniques simply
mean that you add color onto the wall. Sponging is the most common
of this type. Conversely, subtractive (also referred to as negative)
techniques means you take paint off after it has been applied.
Ragging is a common subtractive technique. Most negative techniques
use glazes and require that you move quickly before the glaze
dries.
When it comes to glazes, there are two types: latex (water
based) or oil based. Latex is by far easier since it cleans up
with soap and water, but oil based glazes provide longer working
times and generally provide a harder, more durable finish. However,
for do-it-yourselfers, I recommend latex glazes and working in
small areas at a time. I have also seen solutions that you can
add to the glaze to lengthen the working time. For your first
glazing job, you may well want to consider using this additive
available at finer paint supply stores.
Here are the various type of faux painting techniques:
Sponging: Probably the easiest method, you apply paint to a
wall with a natural sea sponge. It provides a richly textured
look. In addition to good looks, it's a simple way to camouflage
an uneven or repaired crack wall. Use a couple of colors over
the base paint to add greater depth. Be bold or subtle; it's up
to you. You can use glaze or paint just as easily with this technique.
I've seen this done in a negative manner, but it is most commonly
performed as a positive method.
Ragging/Rag rolling: Typically a negative technique, you paint
a tinted glaze over the base painted walls. The glaze should be
tinted darker than the base coat, keeping in the same color family
as the glaze allows some color through it as well. Either use
a wadded up dry rag or twist a rag into a cylinder. Then dab or
roll the rags to remove the glaze. You can use one or two colors
over the base coat. You may also do this in a positive method
like sponging for a softer look and texture.
Color Washing: In this additive technique, you apply the tinted
glaze mixture over the base coat using a circular motion as if
you were washing the wall. Use rags for a very soft look or a
natural sea sponge for a more textured appearance.
Strié: Create a historical and aged texture to the wall,
with this negative method. Roll tinted glaze over the base coat,
then use a wall paper brush to make fine lines from top to bottom.
The glaze should be darker than the base coat to allow the lighter
base to show through the fine lines.
Striping: The only difficult part of this positive technique
is getting your stripes straight. Be sure to use a level or drop
a plumb line. Tape off your stripes, then paint every other one
with glaze. If you use a bold color, you do not need to tint the
glaze to get a delightful two-tone effect. For softer colors,
you may wish to slightly darken the glaze although it is not necessary.
This technique may also be combined with color washing as you
color wash the stripes for more interest and texture. Of course,
for a more dramatic look, you can use paint in complementary or
various colors.
Dry Brushing: This is a positive method in which you use a
small amount of paint on a brush in herringbone patterns to create
the texture. You will need tow or three colors to achieve the
best results.
Frottage: Using plastic sheets for this negative method, tinted
glaze is applied over the base coat and then plastic sheets are
applied and smoothed over the glaze. Once the wall is done, the
plastic sheets are removed for a marbling effect.
Faux finishes can provide interest and texture to your rooms
and less expensively than wall paper. While you may need
to block out a full day to do the work, by the end of the day,
you can sit back and admire the rich, luxurious look of your new
room.
About The Author: Julie Lohmeier is the veteran of numerous
home remodeling and building projects. From working hands on and
doing much of the work herself to hiring contractors and construction
managers, she has seen the entire spectrum of home improvement.
She shares her remodeling tips, home decorating ideas, and other
various rants at http://www.myhomeredux.com. @copyright 2005,
Julie Lohmeier, www.myhomeredux.com
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