This modern take on faux finishes lends a dreamy, dimensional look to walls.
Forget everything you think you know about stodgy faux-finishing.
What is Color Washing?
Credit: Courtesy of Inga Casha of Studio Grey Interior
Color washing results in a textured appearance reminiscent of old-world plaster and stone or even a watercolor painting.
The final look depends on the colors and brush pattern you choose, and how you layer the paints.
Inga Casha of Inga Casha Interiors used this technique to achieve a stone-like finish in her dining room.
Credit:Carson Downing
While perfection isnt the goal, she advises working continuously to get a polished final finish.
Inga Cashais an interior designer and founder ofInga Casha Interiors.
Carson Downing
1.
Credit: Tria Giovan Photography Inc
For a bolder statement, select two paints from different color families, or even consider three colors.
Be aware that the technique involves blending colors together.
If you pick colors that are too close together in tone, there wont be enough contrast.
Credit:Amy Bartlam for Rue Magazine / Interior Designer: Kelli Lamb / Courtesy of Portola Paints
The glaze or water is used to dilute the paint.
Using mixes in several different ratios results in a more layered, varied pattern.
Amy Bartlam for Rue Magazine / Interior Designer: Kelli Lamb / Courtesy of Portola Paints
3.
Color washing takes a different approach.
Paint and glaze are applied selectively in a faux-finish project.
This selective software is what gives color washing its dimension and variegated appearance.
First, paint walls withyour desired base colorbefore beginning to work on the faux finish.
Apply the glaze in an overlapping X-pattern, then go over the applied glaze to blend as desired.
Different brushstrokes and tools create different looks.
Paintbrushes offer a more defined look, whereas a sponge or rag will result in a softer finish.
Practice your technique in a hidden corner of your room or on a piece of foam core.
This will help you get the motion down and decide exactly which pattern and program method you like best.
