Faux painting can be used to mimic marble and other surfaces.
Faux painting is a technique used to create the appearance of stone, wood, metal or another decorative surface on an object. The term derives from the French word for ''false,'' or faux. This technique, which includes sponging and ragging, is frequently used on walls, but can also be used on furniture. Faux painting furniture takes some artistic skill, so practice the desired technique on a board before starting on the piece of furniture. The materials and instructions for various techniques are available at paint and craft stores.
Faux Marble
A simple wood table can be transformed into one that appears to have a marble top with a faux marble painting technique. To recreate the look of marble, a light-colored base coat of paint is applied and allowed to dry thoroughly. Veins are created using an artist's brush in a dark color of paint. Blending makes the veins appear natural. Use a real piece of marble as a visual aid.
Crackle Finish
Crackle is another faux finish that creates the look of weather and age on a piece of furniture. This finish gives the appearance of paint cracking to reveal an older coat of paint beneath it. A base coat of paint is applied and allowed to dry. Then a coat of crackle medium is applied, followed by a glaze in a second color. For more age, burnt umber or antiquing glaze can be added.
Faux Leather
The look of leather can also be achieved with faux painting and two colors of paint. This technique starts with a dry base coat in satin or semi-gloss. The second coat, one part semi-gloss paint mixed with four parts glaze, is applied next. Wrinkled, clear plastic is pressed onto the wet glaze and flattened with a dry brush. When the plastic is peeled away, a leather look appears. Damp cheesecloth may be used to soften the look.
