The
single most important faux painting technique is glazing. When
glaze is applied over a base coat it will add depth and radiance,
changing the base color without obscuring it.
From
one to four different glazes may be applied to a wall in varying
colors or tones depending on the intended results. Once that layer
is dry it is possible to apply another layer of glaze. For example,
you could add a patina of age by darkening the edges of a wall
for a very dramatic effect.
So,
what role does glazing play in interior design? All rooms are
an interplay of shapes, colors, light, texture and patterns. The
most effective interiors are ones in which these elements don’t
compete strongly with each other for your attention, but rather
exist in a hierarchy from dominate to subtle. The architecture
of the room is usually the most dominant and forms a geometric
pattern. It could be from a repeat pattern of windows or a coffered
ceiling.
Next are probably the fabrics, both their colors and patterns.
Finally, wall finishes and seemingly solid color surfaces such
as tile or carpeting. (Tip: Try squinting your eyes when analyzing
a room to reduce the detail and see what patterns appear.)
Glazes
can add depth and/or subtle tones of color to walls. The variations
in the glaze treatment can range from the softness of a parchment
to the boldness of ragging. Or a more formal effect can be achieved
with vertical stripping or strié. (Strié is a technique
where the glaze is rolled on the wall and a brush is drawn through
it from top to bottom creating thin vertical lines.)
Using
a stencil a repeat pattern may be hand stenciled over an entire
wall using glaze. The end result will be much like a wall paper
pattern but without the seams and it will have the variation inherent
in any hand done process. The pattern may also intentionally fade
in and out.
