Faux Finishing

Faux finishing encompasses a variety of interesting techniques that add depth and personality to walls and other objects. The art of faux painting ranges from simple to complex in application.

Overview of Faux Finishing

Faux, the French word for "fake," has been used to describe certain types of finishing techniques for centuries. Making a surface appear to be something it is not – such as wood, marble, or leather – is the purpose behind faux finishing. It is often a less expensive alternative to using natural materials.

Whether done by the individual or by a professional, faux finishing is unique in style through the layering of paints and glazes – usually by hand. It is a wonderful medium for experimentation and offers an easy, creative outlet for people who like do-it-yourself projects. Professionals are typically required when the finish requires more skill and detail, as in aged stone, trompe l'oeil, and intricate textile reproduction.

The majority of faux applications involve wall preparation and repair, one or two base layers of paint, one or more coatings of a complementary glaze and paint mix, and a topcoat that acts as sealer and protectant. Tools and types of paints and glazes will vary according to each project.

Decorative faux finishes are not limited to walls; they are useful for revitalizing furniture or cabinets and can add appeal to walkways or other concrete structures.

Faux Finishing Styles

The different techniques for faux finishing are numerous. Some of the more popular applications include:

Antiquing. This process goes hand-in-hand with aging or distressing and is used in conjunction with faux plaster, wood, leather, and stone.

Sponging. One of the easiest faux finishing techniques, sponge painting is also one of the more traditional. A dry natural sponge is loaded with paint and pressed lightly onto the wall when using the "sponging on" style. For "sponging off," the wall is painted first and the sponge is used to gently remove paint.

Rag Rolling. Different weights and types of material, bunched up in the hand, create interesting effects. "Ragging On" means the paint is dabbed onto the walls with the material; "ragging off" requires the paint or glaze mix to be applied first and then partially removed with cloth.

Color Washing. Once the base coat is dry, a glaze or secondary paint color is added. Sponges, rags, or brushes are then used to create light patterns in the wet layer.

Combing. This technique is useful for recreating wood-grain, a crosshatch pattern, or subtle striping. The wall is primed and painted and then a small section of wet paint or glaze mix is applied. A special "comb" swipes through the wet later to create a pattern.

Canvas or linen look. A faux finish that is similar to combing. A brush sweeps across the wet layers to create a lighter weave. This approach is either elegant or casual, depending on the choice of complementary paint and glaze colors.

Stamping and stenciling. These faux finishes are popular among people who like do-it-yourself projects. They range in level of difficulty and detail. Borders and children's rooms lend themselves to either of these techniques.

Trompe l'oeil. A specialized technique, trompe l'oeil is not limited to in-depth murals. Detailed replication of marble, bricks, and rockwork also fall in this category.