Faux Glaze Basics

2008-11-05 12:01:48

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What is Faux Glaze?

Faux glaze is a translucent type of paint liquid that is mostly colorless in its base form. When it is mixed with regular paint or colorant, it can create a unique transparent effect on the surface you painted, similar to the appearance of wallpaper.

As an alternative to solid paint colors, faux glazing provides a softer and shinier effect on your walls. And since faux glaze dries slower than regular paint, you can manipulate the surface that you painted with the mixture to create beautiful wall finishes, like soft waves or tiny lines. For example, a usual light blue solid color can be converted to a marble like appearance, or the effect of a blue sky by using faux glaze techniques.

Steps in Faux Glazing

If you are faux glazing over a wall that has already been painted on before, you should select your paint shade very carefully. For light surfaces, it is possible to choose a darker shade. If the existing paint color is already dark, you may need to strip it and apply a primer before you can repaint on it. Unless you are following the same shade, you should use a color chart to see which color will suit the room best.

Base coat paint that has a satin enamel finish is best for faux glazing. Mix one part of the base coat with one part faux glaze. The mixture will cover approximately four 8 x 12 walls. Stir the mixture well with a stick.

Depending on the effect you want, you can use either a paintbrush, a sponge, or a rag as applicator. Apply the mixture onto the wall. While it is still wet, use the applicator to create the effect you want. Use random circular or directional strokes. Keep your strokes light and don't squeeze the applicator too hard. You may need to wipe off excess glaze mixture from the applicator from time to time.

Other Tips about Faux Glaze

How the effect will turn out on your wall will depend so much on the base coat shade, the amount of glaze, the applicator, and the strokes you use. Before starting, you should test the mixture by applying it onto a piece of white board or stiff paper.

You may want to work on small areas at a time, about 3x3 area. Work on less conspicuous areas of the wall, such as the ones that will be covered by furniture or decor items. This will give you time to get adjusted to the paint routine. Work from one end to the other so that there's continuity in the design.

You can look up online sites that feature do-it-yourself home improvement projects to get more information and tips.


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