How to Create a Linen Faux Finish - Artzy Fartzy Creations

One of the things I love about the linen look is it’s timeless; it never goes out of style and can be created in any color.

I’m going to show you how to create this amazing finish using only two products and in two easy steps. Keep reading!

Believe it or not, my assistant and I did this finish in a 30 thousand square foot building, 12 stories high. And yes, my back was killing me when we were done.

Before I forget …

I will have a supply list for you and a step-by-step video at the end.

#1 One of the very first things you need to do is prep. Make sure your walls are smooth, with no dips and no bumps. It will show up in the end results.

#2 I like to use purple low-tack tape on the chair rail and floorboards because it’s easy to remove and won’t pull up the paint.

#3 For the ceiling, I like to use blue tape, which has a better adhesive for sticking to popcorn or knockdown ceilings.

#4 Cover any areas where you don’t want the paint to drip on. This is why I covered the chair rail.

#5 Mix your paint and glaze using 3 parts glaze to one part paint. I used eggshell paint and Benzamine Moore glaze. I would normally give you a link to purchase the glaze but couldn’t find any online. Go to your local paint store.

#6 Apply the glaze mixture with a paintbrush to the top and bottom in sections the width of your wallpaper brush.

TIP: always work with two people. One person cuts in and rolls on the paint and the other person removes the paint with the wallpaper brush. While you’re removing the paint, have your helper clean the brush after every use.

#7 Pour some paint into a paint tray and use your roller to apply the paint mixture in a thin even coat.

#8 Starting at the top of the wall, drag the wallpaper brush in a straight line to the bottom of the wall. Repeat this process until you like the results. I did this finish by going over it 2-3 times. The more you go over it, the more paint you will pull off and the lighter it gets.

#9 When applying the next section, avoid overlapping the area you just painted. Try and go as close as you can without overlapping. It will create a dark line.

#10 Use your chip brush to feather out the top and bottom. The scruffier the brush, the better. You can also use scissors to make your brush uneven.

#11 When the paint starts to build up on the brush, clean it with a rag.

#12 Remove the tape right away so you can see where there is build-up and feather it out.

#13 Continue until the wall is done. DO NOT stop in the middle of a wall you started. You must finish the wall or it won’t look consistent.

Watch the step-by-step video here:

I have done this in many colors, but this is my favorite linen faux finish. So, what do you think? I’d love to know.

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