Wood graining is a technique in which you can make a non-wood surface look like a fine piece of grained wood. There are a few basic tools needed for this technique. The first is a heart wood graining tool, a half-round tool with a handle and grooves.
The other tools are various sized wood graining combs made of metal or plastic. tools like this were in high-demand in the 60s and 70s when wood grained parts of cars were all the rage. Factories couldn’t hire artists to paint each one, so they came up with machine versions of the tools below.
Using a glossy paint, you give your surface a wood colored base coat. Then you mix decorator’s glaze with a darker color paint, at a 2:1 ratio. Next, paint an area about two feet wide by the height of your surface. Then you take your heart wood tool and, rocking it back and forth slowly, you drag it through the center of the two-foot strip. You then take your comb and create grains on the sides of the center. After this, you use a softening brush to add tiny veins as you push the brush along. After drying, you apply “Van Dyke” glazing to the surface. You will now have what looks like real wood beautifying your home, but without the high cost or burn-ability.
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