How to Faux-Paint Fireplaces

Fireplace surrounds are often made of concrete, stone or brick --- materials that are usually drab in color. While you could paint your fireplace surround a solid color, this may not provide enough of a creative outlet or artistic statement for you. If you love faux-finishing, masonry fireplace surrounds can be ideal surfaces for techniques such as ragging and sponging. While the process is not identical to faux-painting walls, and requires a specific type of paint, it is not difficult for anyone who has faux-finished before.

Water
Liquid soap
Rags
Masonry paint
Paintbrushes
Faux-finishing supplies
Masonry sealer

Instructions

- 1
  Wash the fireplace surround to be painted, using a mixture of water and mild liquid soap. Make sure all of the dust and dirt is removed, and wipe down the surround with a damp rag until no residue remains. Let the fireplace dry for at least a full day, since stone, concrete and brick may absorb water.
- 2
  Choose a faux-finish technique. Two-color techniques such as sponging work best, but finishes such as streaking do not look good over the texture of stone and brick. Paint the surround evenly all over with your base color, using masonry paint and a paintbrush.
- 3
  Let the base coat dry completely. Apply your faux finish over the top, using a second shade of masonry paint and faux-finishing tools. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly for one to two days.
- 4
  Protect your work with masonry sealer. Cover the surround with sealer, using a paintbrush. Keep the application smooth and even just as you would with paint, and let the sealer dry for 12 to 24 hours.

Painting Techniques With Glazes and Washes

How to Stipple With Paint

Faux Finishing