How to Learn Faux Finish

Visit your local paint stores. Look at the different faux paint products sold. Ask store employees if faux finish demonstrations are ever on the store's schedule. Often demonstrations are free or cost just a few dollars to attend. National stores such as Lowe's, Sherwin Williams and Home Depot carry faux finishing supplies and paints and often have demonstrations.

Call professional faux finish artists in the area. Find artists' phone numbers from high-end home builders, interior designers and architects. Ask the artists if they teach local classes. Many artists supplement their income by teaching at a local community center or art center. Sometimes artists will also represent specific faux finish companies and give free product demonstrations.

Search for national classes if you would like to become a professional faux finish painter. Look in magazines such as Faux Effects World or Artisphere for class advertisements or overviews. Look for artist's names and contact information featured in the magazine. Call the artists and discuss what classes they would recommend. Classes vary in length from one day to a week. Cost averages from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Most professional classes teach you a variety of different techniques. You will create sample boards in class and walk away with a professional portfolio. Search online for faux finish and decorative painting classes. Ask for feedback from past students and try to visit the studio before attending class if it is close to your home. Many professionals fly to classes all over the country depending on the type of class and the quality of instruction.

Join the International Decorative Artisans League, also known as IDAL. The nonprofit organization focuses on faux finishes, stenciling and mural paint. Visit IDAL's website to search for a local chapter or become a member of two of the organization's online chapters to talk with other artists. Attend the organization's yearly convention. The main part of the convention is a variety of mini faux finishing classes. Classes are held for about an hour throughout the week-long convention. The convention allows you to talk to other artists in the industry on a personal basis in an informal environment.