Definition of a Faux Finish

Terminology

• The term faux finish is French in origin. Faux means ''false'' in French, referring to the article being imitated, such as faux wood or faux leather. A faux pas, for example, is French for false step, meaning a social blunder or breach of etiquette. Faux describes the finish, or the paint applied to create an illusion of texture or depth on a smooth surface.

History

• Historically, the first faux finishes were fake plaster and stucco techniques utilized in Mesopotamia more than 5,000 years ago. These techniques have been evolving ever since. The Victorians often used painting techniques to make a wall appear three-dimensional, as if it had decorative molding.

Trompe l'oeil

• One faux finish, called trompe l'oeil, uses paint to create the illusion of real vines, mirrors, arched doorways, stones or other items on bare walls. This form of artistic expression flourished during the Renaissance. Trompe l'oeil means, literally, ''trick the eye.'' This technique is still used on walls today.

Degree of Difficulty

• A simple faux finish, such as sponge painting a wall, can be completed by a novice with good results. Special materials, including sea sponges, tools and glazes, are available at paint and home-improvement stores, along with instructions. The paint is merely dabbed onto a wall with a sponge to create a dappled effect. Other faux finishes, such as wood graining and trompe l'oile, are more difficult and require a professional with special tools and experience.

Home Decor

• Other faux finishing techniques include ragging, color washing, linen weave or leatherizing. Faux finishes can make walls appear aged, plastered or even bricked. These finishes became widespread in the 1980s, when wallpaper fell out of favor in home decor. Faux finishing began as a technique to replicate natural materials, such as marble, on another material, such as a wooden fireplace surround. It has expanded to encompass many other decorative painting techniques.