Several faux finishes and glaze treatments bring out the richness of plaster.
Faux painting and glaze techniques on plaster provide richness and add texture. These painting techniques add drama and pizazz to a plaster project when ordinary, one dimensional paints don't make the project pop. Creative faux painting and glazing techniques also offer inexpensive ways to refresh the look of dull plaster.
Faux Crackling
Paint exposed to weather or left for long periods in an abandoned house often cracks in an interesting, random pattern. Replicate the effect on plaster with a commercial weathered crackling product. When applied between coats of paint the product will cause the top paint to crack, revealing the base coat. The more contrast between the base coat and top coat, the more dramatic the crackle effect.
Faux Granite
Granite comes in many patterns and colors. Faux painting made to resemble granite involves a three color sponging process finished off with spattering. The tiny dots of color covering the surface resemble the grains granite is named for. This is an excellent choice for plaster projects because it transforms the look of flat surfaces, adding plenty of texture.
Faux Limestone
Though trompe l'oeil (French for "trick of the eye"---pronounced trump loy) stone on plaster looks intricate, the technique calls for sponge and spattered grids finished with simple highlights. The hardest aspect of stone created on plaster involves setting up the grid, figuring the size and repeat of the blocks, marking them on the surface, and applying the masking tape. Avoid making all the blocks exactly the same. Irregularity adds to the character of the stone.
Glaze Gilding
Glaze gilding adds elegance and sophistication to projects. Numerous products on the market produce a metal finish, including paint, powder and cream mediums. Leafing offers one of the most striking looks with tiny, irregular ridges where the leaves overlap, distinguishing it from other gilding techniques. Always apply gold or silver leafing over a painted surface.
Glaze Striping
Adding stripes to plaster gives a tailored look to the decor. While plain contrasting colors offer a handsome look, virtually any other painting technique adds to the richness of a striped pattern. After planning and marking the repeat on the base coated surface, simply tape off the alternate sections and apply a contrasting glaze to the exposed portions. Stripes can offer either a subtle or bolder statement depending on the contrast between the colors.
Glaze Dragging
Dragging, also known as strie, became popular in the 18th century. A dragged plaster project generally creates a more formal look depending on the colors used. Dragging effects range from subtle and elegant to bright and spirited. Apply glaze to painted plaster using a small brush or roller. With the glaze still wet, drag a brush straight down through it to create fine striations. This technique requires a steady hand, practice and patience.
Glaze Colorwash
A simple technique, colorwashing looks bright and airy. It creates a lively, rustic or pastoral motif. Done with transparent glaze, because it sports a textured appearance that hides flaws, it's ideal for adding new life to plaster surfaces in less than perfect condition.
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