Faux Painting Techniques

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 examples of common types of faux painting techniques:

Sponging - a positive method where paint is applied with a natural sea sponge.

Ragging or rag rolling - generally done as a negative technique as tinted glaze is removed with rolled or wadded rags.

Color washing - done by adding glaze with a circular motion.

Strié - creating a lightly striped texture by dragging a wallpaper brush through wet glaze.

Frottage - a negative method where paint is removed after applying plastic sheets.

Striping - adding stripes with glaze (for a subtle contrast) or paint for dramatic differences, stripes can also be color washed for a rich effect.  (This example is from my dining room wall - I couldn't find a comparable example online.)

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.