Would you like to spruce up your living area? Or do you just need an idea for decorating an accent wall? Faux finishing may be the answer to these questions. Most faux finishing techniques are quick, simple to learn, and easy to achieve.
There are many different styles and techniques used to accomplish a faux finish. The most common techniques are sponging and ragging. Other faux finishes include colorwashing and metallic paints. Here is how you can get these finishes in your own home.
Colorwashing
A colorwash is very easy to achieve. Begin by purchasing two different colors of paint. For a softer appeal, select two colors that are on the same strip. If you would like something a little bolder, go with two contrasting colors. You will only need to buy a small amount of the top color (usually the darker color). Also, buy some glazing liquid and a good paint brush.
Apply the base coat to the wall(s). Depending on how well it covers, you may need to apply a second coat. When the paint is dry, combine the glaze and top color. Start with a formula of 1 part paint to 4 parts glaze. Brush it out (not yet on the wall) to determine the translucency. The more glaze you add, the more translucent it will become. The recommended formula is 1 part paint to 8 parts glaze, but some people will use up to 16 parts glaze. Remember, though, you will need to keep track of the amount of glaze you add to the paint, just in case you will need to mix up some more.
Once you have decided on the translucency, brush the topcoat onto the wall in wide, curved strokes. The more random the strokes, the better it will look. A third color may be applied if desired.
Ragging
Purchase two different colors of paint. They can be two colors that are on the same strip or two complementary colors.. You can either buy a special ragging roller (from a local paint store) or you can use clean, cotton rags to apply the topcoat.
Apply the base color to the wall. Let the paint dry. Now you can either roll the topcoat on with the ragging roller or you can blot it on with a clean rag. Use a random pattern to achieve your desired effect. Apply a third color to create dimension on the walls. The topcoats may be combined with glaze for a more translucent effect.
Sponging
Sponging is a similar faux finish to ragging. The only difference is that you will use a sponge to apply the topcoat. Be aware, though, that sponges will leave a sort of polka-dot effect.
As always, choose two different colors. Apply the base coat to the wall and let it dry. Sponge the topcoat over the base coat using a sponge or a special sponging roller. Apply a third coat if desired. As with colorwashing and ragging, the topcoat(s) may be combined with glaze.
Metallic
A metallic paint may be combined with any of these faux finishes for instant sophistication. The metallic may be: silver, pearl, copper, gold… It is applied over a base color, either with or without glaze, in order to achieve one of these faux finishes.
If you are searching for new decorating ideas in your home, try out a faux finishing technique. All of the techniques we have discussed are easy to learn and to achieve. Create a personalized touch in your home by combining one of these faux finishes with several colors of your choice.
