How to Faux like a Pro

"It's fun and easy to transform a plain wall space with a 'faux painting' effect, the end result, when done right, can create an optical illusion and an excellent focal point for the room."~Tomitheos

STEP 1: When making a faux brick wall (slate, stone, granite or marble) with paint, first draw your brick grid design on a smaller piece of paper (do this so that you can determine the size of the brick - be sure to make it to scale 1" : 1 ' ratio) then transfer the gridline measurements to the wall.

When done properly the design, from top to bottom, should be symmetrical and provide a realistic and aesthetic visual perspective.

STEP 2: Prime the area, the basecoat paint layer should always be 'satin' or 'semi gloss'.

Use the darker color first as a base (latex, satin or semi gloss)
Then apply a tinted glaze (made up with latex **glaze and eggshell mix)

STEP 3: By using a lint-free rag or sponge transfer the colors of your choice on the canvas wall, then cheese-cloth for more detail, and lightly pat; leave a wet edge.

STEP 4: Continue to add multiple layers and earth tone colors until a three-dimensional stone / marble or granite look is achieved.

Refine the details: create some shadows on the grid lines with a paintbrush for a 3D effect, apply glaze in random spots and enjoy the illusion of your work of art.


** glaze is transparent but creates texture and prevents the paints from mixing into one color which then allows just enough time to make a pattern or design; note that 'glaze' may look milky white at first but it dries clear.