Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a faux finish customized or do I chose from an existing faux paint pattern?
A: Actually, you can do either one. We have marvelous faux finish samples of leather, marble, stone, metallic and pearl, distressed wood faux paint finishes. We love using plaster for greater interest and depth in our faux finishes, as well...
Q: How do I know what faux finish to use in my home?
A: If you are looking for a faux finish on one wall or a whole faux paint finish in an entire room, we can help! Our faux finishes are completely customized to meet the needs of our clients. Set up a free consultation to look at samples and portfolio of our finest craftsmanship, and we can assist you in picking a finish to harmonize and complement your personal style.
Q: What is a Faux Finish?
A: Faux finisheing is the art of applying paint, plaster, papers, etc. to a surface in such a way as to make the surface appear to be made of a different material than it really is. Marble, stone, leather, suede and distressing are all fabulous faux finishes. A skilled decorative painter can create a unique environment by using a faux finish to set the tone and mood of a living space.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Clients are often surprised at the cost of faux finishing. Here's how we explain it to our clients. When you have a room painted, the painter uses what are called in the trade "production" tools. Examples of production tools are brushes, rollers or spray rig. The production tools cover a large area quickly (usually an average of 300 square feet per hour). The painter can usually get by with one or two coats of paint. It is a relatively fast process.
Faux finishing on the other hand is NOT a production process. Faux finishes often require repairs and/or priming of an existing wall, at least one (but usually two) "base coats" before the decorative painting process can begin. This initial process is fairly quick.
However, there the similarities cease. In faux finishing, artisans use small tools like rags, cheesecloth and sponges. They cover only a small area at a time. The decorative painter usually works 45 to 60 square feet per hour. In general, faux finishes are "layered," meaning that the artisan does the faux finish painting more than two times around the room. For a marble, leather or stone finish it may require 6 times around the room!
As you can see, faux finishing requires more time and energy than painting. Therefore the cost is substantially more. A good rule of thumb is that faux finishing a room will cost four to six times more than painting the same room a solid color. Typical prices in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area begin at $4.00 per square foot.
