There are several things that you need to think about when deciding whether to go with a faux finish or a regular (one color) paint finish.

First, we have Budget, which is usually the most important thing to a middle class american. A faux finish can cost 3-5 times more than a regular paint job. People do not realize this until they get an estimate from a decorative painter, and their jaw drops when they are told the price. There are less expensive finishes (colorwashes & simple glazing) and more expensive finishes (venetian plaster & textured finishes), but you can definitely plan on it costing you more money than what you are used to. You may also have different quality painters that you can choose from. Some may be regular painters who dabble in faux finishing. Some may be high-end artists who may charge much more because of their experience and expertise. The best way to feel this out is to have 1 or 2 different painters come in and give you an estimate. Do not go with the cheaper one just because they cost less. Go with the one who will do the best job. It will be worth it in the end.

Then, we have Time. A faux finish takes more time for the painter to do. There are dozens of faux finish options. Some can take double the time and some can take even more time than that. A faux finish is not something you should rush. It is important that you find a painter / artist who will take the time to sit down with you and discuss your ideas, color options, and go over the many faux finishes that can be done in your home or business. They should, then, bring it all together by providing you with a sample of what the finished walls would look like. This will take more time. Like I said, do not rush this process.

Lastly, ( but not least) Design and Creativity play an important role in whether or not you choose to do a faux paint finish. There is a huge difference between a one color paint finish and a dimensional faux paint finish. It is amazing how your walls can literally come to life just by adding another dimension of color or texture. A good faux artist can go into a room and pull from things like the furniture, area rug, window treatments, or even artwork and accessories. They use these ideas to come up with the perfect combination of color and finish that will bring the room together as a finished canvas.

Be sure to look at the decorative painter's portfolio and samples to see for yourself if they have what it takes to do a great job in your home or business. Take into consideration the things that I mentioned: your budget, your time limit, and your design plan. I encourage you to choose a faux paint finish instead of a straight (one color) paint finish. A faux finish can be one of the best decisions you ever make as far as room decor and design.

About the Author

Dawn Papandrea-Khan is an artist, muralist, and faux painter out of Westchester County, NY. Surfaces with Paint is the company name. You can contact them for a faux painting or mural consultation through their website www.surfaceswithpaint.com