Most of us are not professional painters, but at some time in our lives we usually try painting a room instead of hiring a professional. When we find out that we really can paint our own interiors we become more confident and even change the color from time to time so that we can create a different look in the home. After a while, we all want something new, and different in our homes, and faux painting is an inexpensive way to get that unique look for very little money.
There is a faux painting technique that will give your wall, or table, the look of well-worn leather. This technique is known as ragging.
You will need a matte finish paint like Regal Matte finish, and a latex glaze, and a latex glaze extender. You will need a paint roller with a 3/8 inch nap, some disposable gloves, a drop cloth, a lint free cloth or a piece of cheesecloth, a nylon brush, a paint tray. Some painters tape, and water to clean up after you are finished.
You need to clean the walls and remove any nails, and repair any nail holes that need repair.
Tape your trim, and edges of the walls that you do not want to get paint on. Cover the floor with a drop cloth and tape it in place so you do not get paint on the flooring.
Start your paint job with a primer coat to cover all of the existing paint, and any stains that might be on the surface of the walls. Then paint your walls the base color you have chosen. Allow the paint ample time to dry thoroughly.
You need to combine one gallon of your studio finish paint with one quart of your matte paint. This mixture will be applied using the lint free cloth, or cheese cloth you have.
Wad the rag up loosely in your hand and dip it into the paint mixture. Having a piece of cardboard handy will allow you to have a place to blot of any excess paint that might be on your rag. Excess paint can cause blotches and runs in the paint.
Take the dipped rag and start pressing it against the wall. You will need to experiment with the amount of pressure that you need to apply to get the look that you want. Do not follow a straight line pattern when you are ragging the wall. Work in a random pattern so that your finish does not have distinctive lines or patterns in it.
After this paint has dried completely it will be time for you to apply the glaze over the paint. The glaze protects the finish and gives it a unique look. You will apply your glaze with a roller or paint brush, but start at the top of the wall and pull the glaze down. Cover the entire room with a thin coat.
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