Techniques for Marble Painting for Columns

Surface Preparation

• Creating the illusion of marble with latex paint is not difficult. However it is a multi-step process that requires proper surface preparation and attention to detail when applying the paint layers. To begin, select the color of marble you want for your column. Marble is most typically white with a mottled gray texture and veining. This color way will give the most recognizable illusion of marble but marble is available in other rich colors that may be better suited to your home decor and the look you hope to achieve.

Surface Preparation

• Meticulous surface preparation is critical for producing exceptional faux painting results. Wipe your column with a damp cloth to remove any dirt and grime. Carefully sand irregularities until the surface is smooth to the touch, then wipe the column down with a tack cloth to remove stray dust. Once surface preparation is complete, apply your first layer of a white primer sealer with a synthetic paint brush or foam roller.

The Right Steps for a Spectacular Marble Surface

• Apply paint in three steps to produce a realistically detailed marble surface. For your background layer, paint irregular wavy diagonal lines across the column, with all diagonals going in the same direction -- not criss-crossed. Work your way around the column as you paint so that the design is continuous, not choppy. For white marble, alternate strokes of white and gray. Blend and smudge the edges of the painted lines with a dry brush. Let the surface dry.

Fine Finishing

• To add fine detailing, mix light, medium and dark gray paints in a 1:4 ratio with a glaze medium so the colors are translucent. Working in the same direction as the diagonals, add accent lines and splotches to simulate the effect of veining. Blur some of the lines and vary their width and thickness. Add irregular dots of color and blot them to create a mottled effect. Let this layer dry before applying a final coat of lacquer. The lacquer intensifies the impact of the painting and gives your work an element of depth and the elegant illusion of marble.