|
|
Basic Finishes
Home » Home Improvement » Painting Techniques » Basic FinishesThe following are traditional paint finishes that can be used for an all-over effect. These effects are suitable for large areas.
Color washing
A floating look achieved by mixing 50% latex paint with 50% wallpaper paste (diluted with water to form a thin solution) and applying with a broad brush.
• Dip the tip of brush into mixture wiping off excess.
• Apply well-spaced dashes of paint on the wall.
• Without applying more paint, spread dashes of paint out in random directions using broad sweeping strokes.
• Use a dry brush to blend the seams.
A second layer of a lighter color can be applied once the first coat has dried. Adding a second layer softens the look but be careful not to over apply, as you don’t want the first color completely covered.
Sponging
A variety of textured effects can be achieved by sponging. Use contrasting colors for a bold effect or colors close in color for a subtle effect. Use a natural sponge for smaller marks or a synthetic sponge, such as a car washing sponge with small chunks pinched out of it, for heavier marks.
• Dip the sponge into the paint scraping off excess. Lightly dab paint on the wall alternating the angle of application.
• Add additional paint, continuing to work the entire surface.
• Fill in gaps to be sure the overall pattern is similar and even.
A second layer of a different color can be applied for a deepened effect. Be careful not to over apply the second color, as you don’t want the first color completely covered.
Ragging
The ragging technique can be performed by either ragging on or ragging off. To rag on, dip the rag into the paint and dab on the wall. To rag off, brush paint on the wall and then use the rag to remove some of the paint. You can use a chamois or any other type of cloth for different effects. Mix 50% latex paint with 50% wallpaper paste that has been diluted with water to form a thin solution.
• Ragging on – A sharper effect that must be evenly applied.
o Scrunch up a chamois, or other rag, dip into paint removing the excess.
o Dab paint onto the wall.
o Continue scrunching the rag and dipping into the paint until the wall is evenly covered.
• Ragging off – A stronger effect somewhat like a crumpled fabric.
o Brush the wash over a large area of the wall.
o Scrunch a rag and dab on the wall to gently remove small areas of paint. Vary the angles with each dab for the crumpled look.
o Continue working the surface until the wall is covered and even.
Dry Brushing
Similar to color washing but the paint does not completely cover the surface creating a more textured look.
• Dip the tip of a large paintbrush into undiluted paint, scraping off any excess.
• Brush on the wall in varying directions by holding the brush almost parallel to the wall and applying a small amount of pressure.
• Continue working in this way adding only small amounts of paint to the brush. Ensure that the base coat shows through.
• The more you brush the surface, the softer the effect.
Add a second layer with a lighter color to create a different effect, making sure the base coat and first coat are still visible.
Combing
Combine involves pulling a comb through wet paint on the wall giving a lined effect. The number of patterns you can create are endless. This technique must be performed on a smooth wall. Use a special rubber-combing tool or make your own using cardboard with teeth cut out.
• Mix 75% latex paint with 25% wallpaper paste that has been diluted with water to form a thin solution.
• Hold the comb at a 90-degree angle to the wall and pull down in a straight line. Be sure to pull down in one clean sweep.
• If the comb wobbles, brush additional paint over the area immediately and pull the comb through again.
• To make patterns, pull the comb through at various angles or lift the brush from the surface at regular intervals.
o Create vertical and horizontal stripes by pulling the comb through vertically or horizontally.
o Create long waves by using parallel strokes.
o Create scrolls using elongated “S” shapes with the comb.
o Make a checkerboard effect by crossing vertical and horizontal lines at regular intervals.
Related Painting Techniques Articles