There are a great many misconceptions about faux painting and finishing.
In addition, applications and techniques are simple, others more complicated, requiring higher levels of skill. Some finishes work well for one situation, but are inappropriate or impossible to produce in another. This is the first blog post in a series that will attempt to explain some of the processes involved and suggest the traditional uses, histories and skills required.
Processes of Faux finishing
- Color wash creates subtle variations of color using multiple hues of glaze blended together, usually with a paint brush.
- Sponging is a free-form finish achieved by applying glaze to the wall by dabbing a sea sponge, in various shapes to achieve either simple design (resembling the wall papers) and more sophisticated ones.
- Fresco (as a modern faux finishing technique, as opposed to a traditional mural technique) uses mixtures of tint and various plaster types to add mottled color and texture to walls.
- Rag painting or ragging is a glazing technique using twisted or bunched up rags to create a textural pattern.
- Distressing (antiquing) involves many varied techniques used to give objects an aged or “weathered” look. Traditionally used for furnishings, but can be done on walls and millwork as well.
- Graining, wood graining, or faux bois (French for “fake wood”) is often used to imitate exotic or hard-to-find wood varieties.
- Grisaille, Monochromatic painting, usually utilized to suggest plaster elements or sculpture (a type of trompe l’oeil).
- Marbleizing or faux marbling is used to make other (usually less expensive) materials look like real marble. This can be done using either plaster or glaze techniques.
- Strié, from the French for “stripe” or “streak”, is a glazing technique that creates soft thin streaks of color using a paint brush. It is a technique often used to simulate fabrics such as linen.
- Trompe l’oeil, “trick the eye” in French, is a realistic painting technique often used in murals, and to create architectural details.
- Venetian plaster is a smooth and often shiny plaster that appears textured but is smooth to the touch. Venetian plaster is one of the most popular and traditional plaster decorations.
More to come…
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Owner & General Manager
Meet Mr. Paint Track himself, Ray! Having been in the industry for three decades, Ray has built Paint Track on a foundation of honesty, knowledge, and respect. He exemplifies leadership, with a commitment to both his craft and our team. Ray is known for his great sense of humor, and if you’re familiar with him, you’ve undoubtedly heard numerous jokes! His vibrant energy uplifts our team. Thanks to his leadership, Paint Track has earned a reputation as a trusted name in the community for the past 20 years.
Ray’s expertise and dedication to quality are evident in every project Paint Track undertakes. He’s not only a master of his craft but also a mentor who generously shares his wealth of knowledge with every team member, helping each of us grow and improve. Ray’s hands-on approach ensures that every detail is attended to, and he consistently goes above and beyond to exceed client expectations.
Ray’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a master’s degree in Telecommunications, which have contributed to his exceptional organizational skills and analytical approach to managing projects. His education and strategic thinking have been instrumental in building an efficient and effective business operation that continues to deliver outstanding results.
In addition to his work with Paint Track, Ray is deeply involved in the community. He actively participates in multiple Chamber of Commerce groups and serves as a board member on the Painting Contractors Association (PCA) Education and Finance Committees. His dedication to advancing the industry and supporting local businesses exemplifies his commitment to both Paint Track and the community.
Under Ray’s leadership, Paint Track has become known not just for superior workmanship but for a client-centered approach that prioritizes communication, transparency, and trust. We’re incredibly grateful to have him leading the way, and we’re proud to carry forward his legacy of excellence in every job we do.
Skills Leadership, customer relations, estimating, and problem solving
Hobbies: Exercise, beekeeping, and hiking
Favorite Paint Color: Sherwin Williams Indigo 6531