Carrara Marble Finish
For use on furniture, objects, and
in fine arts techniques
Rating 2.5 -moderate
Creating the impression of real marble in your home can quickly elevate the presence of any furniture or object. It adds interest and charm and transforms everyday objects into heirlooms.
Step 1. Base Preparation
I begin by sanding the surface with 220 grit sandpaper to insure a smooth surface. A white base color is ideal for this type of painted marble, allowing the veining process to create the interest and character of the faux marble.
On smaller surfaces, like the top of this side board, I like to use a mini roller, which generally provides a smoother application than a brushed finish.
2: Apply the appropriate eggshell finish base color.
A latex off white paint, such as
, will work well.
Allow to fully dry (8
Looking at real marble for inspiration can help tremendously. Look closely at the direction of the veins and how they cross, weave and intertwine together.
3: Start to develop the first phase by loading the ½ inch Royal flat brush with a diluted mixture of Raw Umber and Van Dyke Brown, creating a blackish tone. I choose a direction I want the marble to flow in, usually at a slight angle from right to left, or vise versa.
Starting at the top of the surface I bring the paint across the working area while twisting the brush head slightly. This will create a thick and thin irregular line. 'Rolling' the brush with your fingers as you paint creates swirls and odd character lines that help boost the natural marble like impression.
Step 4: As I lay my ground pattern I begin to cross and connect the veining pattern. Work in squiggly motions, leaving large open areas of the base coat showing through.
Step 5: Now I’ll add a secondary tone, painted in wider swatches to create interest and add character to the otherwise white marble. Brushing color over surface, I paint larger areas in some places, while making sure I apply the color in a wash, allowing the colors from underneath to show through.
Step 6: Next I lightly soften the pattern, blending the colors with a dry brush. A light touch is required, gently brushing over the newly applied color while still wet. Brush in the direction of the marble being creating.
Subduing the marble surface creates an aged feeling while 'pushing' the colors back to a more muted tonality.
Step 7: Using a damp rag, I wet the marbled surface with water. This helps the glaze to remain fluid and extends drying time. I use some of the base color, mixed with water to create a white wash the consistency of cream. Brush the white glaze liberally over the marbled surface.
Step 8: Rubbing over the glazed surface with a rag softens the color. You can also blot or dab the surface to create a slight variation of texture.
Step 9: Finally I’ll add some additional veining by mixing Raw Umber and White together. I use a No. 3 Round brush highlighting a few existing veins within the marbled surface, and occasionally deviating to create a new, errant vein.
Step 10: To protect the surface, a water-based varnish may be applied after marbled surfaces have dried completely (4 hrs). A satin or semi-gloss sheen is best suited for this type of treatment.
The veining process can be fun and exciting. You can add as many layers as you want.
12: Dispose of remaining
rags, brushes and paints properly.
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