Faux painting, also known as faux finishing, is a painting technique intended to produce the look of surfaces like stone and wood. This is achieved through work with glaze and textured applicators such as sponges and rags. The phrase “faux painting” is also sometimes used to refer to a group of related techniques including rag-rolling, color washing, and Venetian plaster treatment. Faux painting work can be done by amateurs, but home paint contractors offer a much quicker and much more professional job.
Faux painting intended to provide a wood-like finish is more typically known as graining. Graining is a finishing process that can be applied to any surface in order to give the effect of a strong and aesthetically pleasing wood texture. The technique can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including wood itself, in order to enhance visual appeal by providing a strong hardwood appearance. Most typically it is used on plainer surfaces in order to enhance look and feel.
Faux marbling, or marbleizing, is a faux painting technique used to create the impression of marble, one of the most popular stones. Other treatments to create the effect of granite, limestone and the like are available, although marble’s visual appeal, along with its high cost and enormous weight, make it a perfect candidate for imitation. Marbleizing techniques have been around for hundreds of years, which mean that the modern standard for work is quite high and requires the practiced trade and attention to detail of a professional contractor.
There are plenty of other decorative painting techniques aside from graining and marbleizing available to homeowners today. Imitation brick and tile finishes have become popular in more stylized home treatments – and specialized rags, rollers, and applicator packages are available for homeowners who wish to do some simple texture work themselves. More artistic effects can be achieved with striping and pre-cut stencil work, but these approaches require a greater attention to detail – both in preparation and application. There is also a myriad of specialized paint and glaze available for bolder finishes and effects, whether on a single accent wall or across an entire room or home.
All of these faux painting and decorating techniques are great ways to liven up the look of your house without having to break the bank of the cost of supplies. Whether taking advice from their home painter and decorator, or coming up fresh styles on their own, more and more homeowners today opt for professional surface treatments, beautifying their abodes while also saving time, money, and stress. Contact your local paint contractor, and ask him what decorative treatment options are available to you.