Faux Painting Walls: Finishes and Techniques

by Jessica Ackerman
(Seattle, WA)

If you prefer paint over wallpaper but want to give walls a completely new look, consider faux finishes and creative painting techniques. Anyone who can paint walls the old-fashioned way can successfully apply faux wall finishes, and they are ideal for disguising minor blemishes and defects. The eyes will only notice the random faux designs instead of flaws on not-so-perfect walls.

If you are considering applying faux finishes to your walls, give the following popular painting techniques careful consideration before making a decision. It really is very easy to give walls a designer look, and you can complete the job for far less than the cost of wallpaper and related supplies. Your walls can be transformed into interesting works of art, and best of all, artistic skills are not required.

Negative Faux Painting with Glaze

When deciding on faux wall finishes, consider the two types of faux painting categories - negative and positive. Sometimes referred to as combing, negative painting is the removal of wet paint to create a faux pattern or texture on a dry painted wall. It creates a very interesting effect since patterns of lines complete the finished designs.

However, combs are not the only items used with this popular wall painting technique. Rubber squeegees typically used to clean windows can be cut to create random or specific patterns on walls, and other items such as stippling brushes, wads of paper, and even hairbrushes can be used when removing wet paint to achieve the desired look.

Although negative faux painting is not difficult, it does require speedy work, especially when using fast-drying latex paint to create faux finishes on walls.

Consider painting walls with oil-based glaze instead of latex paint. It will allow more time to move the finish around on the walls since the drying time is much slower, and it will create a more durable faux finish. On the downside, cleanup will be more time-consuming when using oil-based glaze, and if you ever want to paint over the oil-based finish using latex paint, it will require priming or the paint will not stick.

Faux Painting with Rags and Sponges

Positive faux painting is the addition of paint through the use of sponges, rags, and a host of other ordinary yet handy supplies. Crumpled papers, plastic bags, plastic wrap, and anything else that creates an interesting pattern can be used when adding faux finishes to walls.

For a soft indistinct effect on walls, try using natural sea sponges. They are ideal for painting natural faux finishes. Opt for crinkled paper or plastic for a more dramatic or bold effect when painting walls. Rag painting creates a marbleized effect which is also quite impressive, and using glaze rather than paint will provide the illusion of veins typically found in fine marble. You might even consider applying faux wall finishes using more than a single paint color for depth and added detail.

Try it Before you Apply it to Walls

If you are hesitant to apply a faux finish when painting walls, try the painting technique of your choice on a poster board before taking the plunge. Practice makes perfect, but keep in mind that you cannot be too particular when working with faux wall finishes and perfection is not required. You really cannot make a mistake when applying the finish, and once you get started you will discover how very easy it is to achieve the look you want with popular faux painting techniques.

Jessica Ackerman is an accomplished author and senior writer for Wall Decor and Home Accents. She has a strong background in interior design, and she provides unique wall decorating tips and ideas. Visit the website for more creative ways to display wall art sculptures, wrought iron wall art, architectural pieces, and sconces.

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