Crackle Finishing: Adds More Depth to Your Paint
by Barry Goodknight
Description: Looking to give your paint a crackle faux finish? Here are some painting tips to get you started.
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With the current trend of home decor being shabby-chic, its no
wonder everyone loves the look of crackle finishes. Crackle
finishes can change not only the look and feel of everything
from flower pots, to picture frames, to various pieces of
furniture, but they can also change the dynamics of the walls
of a room by creating the illusion of depth.
Crackle finish is a faux painting technique, which is used to
give walls or pieces of furniture an aged, peeling-paint look.
This technique is easy to do and can be accomplished by most
beginners. The entire project can be completed in about four
easy steps. Whether you are a professional or a beginner to the
world of painting, you can master the art of crackle finishing.
The numbers of materials needed for this type of project are
very few. The only limit to this project is your imagination.
This is a fun; creative, and inexpensive way to way to spruce
up your home. Think of all of the items that are found in your
home; you know that there are things that would look awesome
with a bit of the aged painting look.
When you are ready to begin applying the crackle finish to your
furniture or walls, you will want to make sure that you have the
appropriate tools and materials to make your project flow a
little easier. There are not a lot of materials needed.
Basically, what you will need includes:
* Latex wall paints (preferably satin finish one base coat, one
top coat)
* Crackle finish or white glue (available at craft stores)
* Paint brush, roller
* Masking tape
Step 1 - Using your roller, apply one layer of base coat to
your walls. Allow paint to dry at least 8 hours or overnight if
possible. Choose a color that is visually appealing as this is
the color that will show through the "cracked" topcoat. It is
recommended that you choose paint colors that contrast well.
Step 2 - Use the masking tape to declare "off limits" areas
where you do not want the crackle finish. Working one section
at a time, apply the crackle finish to the walls. The finish
resembles clear glue with a paint-like consistency. Allow to
dry - generally 30 minutes to 1 hour - or as the manufacturer
recommends.
Step 3 - Once dry, immediately apply the topcoat, starting in
one corner of the room and working quickly. Be sure to load the
brush with enough paint to cover each section in one motion. The
crackling will begin immediately so be sure to avoid applying
too much paint and over-blending which will erase the cracks.
Continue this way until the entire wall is finished and allow
to dry.
Step 4 - Remove the masking tape, clean out your brushes, stand
back and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Of course, if you are running short on time, or you are not
crafty, you can always let a professional take over the job.
You can buy items that already have the crackle finish applied,
from tables and chairs to cabinets and everything in between.
Pieces with the crackle finish can really make a difference in
the look of your current décor.
About The Author: http://jwpincorporated.com
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