Houston, TX.
Some lesser complicated faux
finish and decorative techniques that most people can handle are sponging,
colour washing, dragging, stippling and dry brushing. Usually it is advisable
to apply a clear top- coat to finish; this serves to add extra protection to
the design and give an even sheen to the whole wall.
Faux finish techniques vary
in the way they are applied, paint color combinations, and tools and equipment
used for the application. The tools and equipment vary from regular smooth
sponges; sea sponges the ones which are porous and irregular shaped, rags –
to spatulas and trowels.
They all create and leave
their own unique mark and stamp, impression if you will… And that is what
makes them different and enjoyable to work with because you can play around
with and experiment and see the different techniques they create. One who is
the business can usually tell them apart just by looking at the final picture.
Even though faux painting and
decorative painting does not require any special training, it is advisable to
practice a bit with the tools. And having an imagination and a little artistic
ability will also help. But like I always tell clients, what the worst that
can happen? You just have to start all over if you simply can hot live with
the results of your labor.
Usually to get the most out
of your faux finish is to use at least two complementary colors. Home and
paint centers can assist you in this. They will have an array of color
swatches along with complimentary colors you can pick from. There are also
books that you can buy to help you along with designing the project.
They also have all the tools
mentioned above to start your decorative painting project including,
inexpensive practice boards that you can practice before going at it on the
wall. Practicing will help you build your confidence.
Of course, these faux
techniques run from simple, which novices can create themselves to - more
sophisticated, complex, stylized techniques that might require more
experience. In some cases the job requires scaffolding in a case like this it
is better to hire a professional.
If you are not the get dirty
and painted up type, there are artists, decorative painters, faux painters
that are available to help. “A big plus with this is that they have seen so
many ideas in the field that they are able to assist you in coming up with
fresh, artistic ideas for decorating your home”, says Ray Gatica from
MuralsAndBigArt.com., out of Houston, Texas, “and because Of the experience
in working with interior designer, architects, in new construction sites we
see a lot of fresh, new ideas for decorating and can pass them on to the
customer”.
Gatica’s faux painting
experience comes from painting art where he simulates, stone pillars, old
style stone, and bricks and incorporates it into his art. He has been painting
art and big murals for over thirty years, with over 20 years’ experience in
working with interior designers, architects, commercial painting companies and
working directly with private clients.
More complicated techniques
will include: brushed metals & patinas, leather, Venetian plaster, tissue
paper, textured stone, rolling and ragging, suede, Tuscan accents, faded
fresco. Usually a clear top- coat is needed to these finishes to add extra
protection and give an even sheen to the whole wall.
The bottom line is to have fun because decorative painting applications are a creative expression of your personal style. There is no right or wrong way or pattern for the above mentioned techniques…so be creative and decorate your walls while having fun; remember if something is not quite right it is not the end of the world - and you can call a professional or someone to help. Also remember that for a simple transformation or fresh look these techniques are easy to paint over, there should be no need for sanding or stripping before repainting.
We work out of Houston, TX,
and can be reached at 281-441-9714 or by email Ray@GaticaArt.com.