A faux finish can turn an ordinary room into something special and add to the value of your home. The faux finish is both luxurious and rich looking. An easy to do and beautiful faux finish is the color washed faux finish. You don’t have to be an artist to do it. If you can paint and handle a sponge, then you can do this. It’s really a rather easy process that can result in some spectacular results. If you’re interested in learning how to do a color washed faux finish then read on.

1)      The first step is to prepare the surface by washing it down thoroughly. If it’s a gloss finish you will need to sand it lightly so the primer will adhere properly.
 

2)       Next prime the surface. You may want to use an oil-based primer because of its superior moisture and stain blocking abilities. You don’t want anything coming through and ruining the finish later.
 

3)       Once the primer is dry, apply two coats of your base color and allow to dry thoroughly. You should use a satin or semi gloss finish here. Latex is fine at this point and will be easier to clean up.
 

4)       Now prepare your two glazes. Each will be made of one part accent color and four parts glaze. Two accent colors are recommended. Also because the glaze has a tendency to set up quickly, you may want to use a glaze extender to keep it from drying to fast on you.
 

5)      Apply a thin coat of the first glaze to a small area (2'x2') in a random pattern allowing the base coat to show through. Next take a 4" paint brush and dip it in your second glaze color being careful to wipe the excess of the brush before applying. To apply, just feather it across the still wet surface area you painted. Use random strokes because you don’t want a set pattern. Step back and take a look at the area and add additional color if needed to any area. If any areas are to dark use some cheese clock and blot the area to remove some of the extra paint. You can also feather in some of the base coat if needed.
 

6)     The final step is to take a bundle of cheese clothe and wet it squeezing out the excess moisture. Then with a circular pattern wipe of the excess glaze. Depending on the pressure, you apply your final effect will vary. You can also add a spot of glaze here or there if you choose. Keep in mind that the glaze will set up in about 20 minutes so you have to work fast. The glaze extender can help you here. Continue repeating steps 5 and 6 till finished.
 

7)        Remove all the drop clothes and clean up. Fix yourself a drink sit back an admire you work.
   
 

Tips:  Make sure the area is well ventilated when working.

          Experiment on a scrap piece of sheet rock if available till you get the desired effect before starting the real project.