Three Types Of Special Paint Effects

Doing some paint effects can add more life to your wall. Here are some of the special paint effects that you can use on your walls when you are doing some home improvement.

1. Color washing. This type of effect is very appropriate for bedrooms. It doesn't require multiple paint colors but rather it uses a base color usually white and glaze. The color of the glaze will usually depend on one's preference.

Color washing is characterized by multiple, randomly patterned brush strokes. To achieve this effect, a glaze has to be applied on the base paint and then an ordinary wide paint brush is used to create the brush strokes. There is no specific direction for brush strokes so you can drag the brush in whatever direction you please. Just remember keep the strokes long and random.

2. Graining. This special paint effect is usually used to imitate the appearance of a wooden wall. This technique will surely benefit those homeowners who want their home to look homey and natural but don't want to use natural wood.

The effect is achieved by brushing the glaze on the wall. Remember that to make this effect all the more realistic the color of your glaze has to match the color of natural wood. Apply the glaze in such a way that the brush marks are visible then use a dry graining brush or an ordinary paint brush in order to create the actual grain pattern. Remember to brush lightly.

Then for the finishing touches, you need a graining comb, a rubber rocker or a bristle grainer. Any of the three will do. It is used to produce the grain characteristics you usually find on natural wood. To create the grain, roll the rocker or comb from top to bottom.

3. Marbling. Do you want marble on your walls but couldn't afford it? You need not worry or get frustrated because you can have marble on your walls without having to pay the expensive price tag. Yes, marbling is another type of special paint effects.

This type is achieved by brushing the glaze on the base in long wavy patterns. Stipple it using a stippling brush or dusting brush. To add variation, more glaze should be added on various areas of the wall.

Remember that real marble has veins so you will also have to copy this on your wall. To achieve this effect you will need a painter's paintbrush and a wet, white glaze. You can draw the veins in whichever area you desire. Just keep in mind that it has to look like a vein. Also, make some of the veins look thick in order to create a more natural looking effect.

Once you are done with the veining, use a softening brush to blend the colors together. Do not forget to wipe the brush regularly to avoid smudges. For a more dramatic effect, highlight some areas of the veining by adding more color and then soften it using the softening brush. Finally to lock everything, use a varnish over the wall.