 | Shellie Blevens has 17 years of experience in the window covering and decorating field. She may be reached at 620-231-5440 for a free consultation. The Home Place at 616 N. Broadway is a full line Hunter Douglas dealer and appointments can be made to meet with Shellie Blevens, the owner and professional decorator to determine what would work best for you. They also carry custom window treatments by Graber and Comfortex. Custom made fabric beddings and window treatments can also be made at the Home Place, and there are many, many fabrics to choose from. The Home Place has been in business since 1983 and Shellie Blevens has owned it since 1996. |
Home Furnishings
2011-07-01 08:19:00
What is a faux finish?
Question: I am thinking about using some faux finishes in my home interior design. Having never done anything more than a simple one room paint job, is that too ambitious? What are some options and considerations?
Answer: You do sound ambitious indeed! However, there are many faux techniques that can be quickly learned and whose results are quite pleasing, so no need to fear.
For those who may not be familiar with the term, faux comes from the French word for false. Faux finishes are painting and staining techniques that replicate more complex or expensive finishes for such things as walls or furniture. The practice has been in use in decorative arts for thousands of years. Today, we have many products on the market make creating faux finishes relatively simple.
Before you begin, you might want to investigate all of the many different types of faux finishes and determine what elements you would like to add to your home design. For example, you may want to create a faux rug or transform a child’s room with a denim look. With a little investigation, you’ll find that the options are nearly endless. Some of them include: Sponging, rag rolling, color washing, brushed metals, patina and rust finishes, sand tones, distressing and many, many more.
Once you have selected the technique you would like to try, it is a good idea to find a book that covers the technique comprehensively, step by step. Look for ones that provide a shopping list and professional tips that include things like dealing with corners and working in tight spaces.
Here are a few important tips to keep in mind:
•Follow all instructions for cleaning
and prepping the surface.
•Practice the technique on
something disposable before you
begin on the permanent surface.
•Spot test the area before you
begin.
•Always use high quality paints and
stains for best results.
•Use high quality tools as it will
save time on replacements and on
problems caused by such things
as brush or fiber shedding, bleed
through and other poor results.
Remember, faux finishes, if done correctly can replicate an expensive look for a more affordable price. I hope these hints will help you get off to a great start!
