Posts Tagged ‘Stone Brick’

Floor Stencils – Ideas For Decorative Concrete Floors

Faux painting techniques are an economical and innovative way to transform any surface and can complement any decorating style. Dull concrete floors, both indoors and out, can be brought dramatically to life with paint.

In theory, almost any look can be replicated, by introducing color, pattern and texture. The ideal design will vary according to the room or space you are making over. You may want a color scheme or theme to complement the d?cor style and/or function of a room or outdoor area.

Planning and Preparation

Before choosing a design, look carefully at your surface and space. Some designs are useful for disguising flaws in a floor. For other designs you may need to patch and smooth flawed surfaces thoroughly first.

You will also need to think about the traffic in the area you are painting. Is it worth doing an elaborate, time-consuming pattern in a high traffic area? If you don’t like the distressed look that will result, you may want to rethink. Designs also need matching to the surface area. Large, bold patterns may be out of scale for a small room. Equally, small, detailed patterns may get lost in large spaces. If you are using stencils, note that some manufacturers can resize stencils for you.

Inspirations for Faux Painted Floors

Brick and Stone

Brick (or ‘block’) and stone finishes can add texture and/or color and can be effective indoors or outdoors. Patterned brickwork is easily simulated using reusable stencils. They are available in a wide range of designs and are an easy option for beginners.

Simulating the effect of stone may require more expertise (and time) and so may be more suitable for smaller spaces. Many types of stone can be reproduced using paint. You could create a luxurious marble floor for your bathroom. Faux slate paving or flagstones will suit patios and indoor spaces, such as kitchens or hallways.

Tiles and Mosaics

Faux terracotta tiles are a versatile option for kitchens, patios and dining rooms. Their warm, earthy appearance goes well with the rustic Tuscan look and can add warmth in a modern home. Again, stenciling can be used to reproduce a tiled appearance. You could use paint to create a faux mosaic floor worthy of a Roman villa.

Patterned and Textured Finishes

For a finish that isn’t too busy, you can use paint to create subtle texture. The color washing technique used to create a mottled or cloudy effect on walls can also be used on floors. Distressed and antique finishes that simulate wear and age may be suitable in some d?cor schemes.

With pattern, your choice is endless. Covering an entire surface is one option. Alternatively you could paint a faux rug, perhaps with patterns inspired by oriental carpets and kelims. You might prefer clean lines and geometric patterns. Stencils are always useful and can be used for patterned borders for a more understated look.

Bold or subtle, bright or neutral, faux painting techniques can give your floor an expensive-looking makeover that won’t break the bank.

By: Debra T Conrad

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Find more concrete floor stencil ideas from That Painter Lady. Then claim your free “Insider’s Guide to Faux Painting” and avoid all the common mistakes, get success tips, find the right products for the job and more.

Faux Stone Backsplash – Budget Friendly With Tough Looks

If you want to have the contemporary look of stone, concrete, granite or wood within your budget go for faux stone. Faux stone backsplash bring beauty of wood, stone, brick and metal to your kitchen.

So what exactly is faux stone?

It is a high density molded polymer to create looks of stone, bricks etc. If your budget is tight and you still want to get the rural country look or toughness of stone then faux stone backsplash is just right for you.

The benefits of faux stone are numerous.
They are durable and do not crack, wrap, fade or rot with weather. Installation cost is very minimum. There is no need to hire masons or contractors. It is impervious to insect attack, moisture and environmental sound. Labor costs are also minimum as there is no heavy lifting involved like stones or granite. It is do-it-yourself stuff. You can laser cut, saw, drill and glue with simple tools. You can just use adhesive and screws to fit it. You can also screw signs, pictures or paints on faux stone. If you drill or screw wrongly you will have no problems. There will not be any cracks in faux stone.

Besides that they come in variety of designs. There is the hand-made look, the granite look, sun-bleached look, charcoal look etc. It also mimics design of asphalt, concrete etc. No mixing, drying or sloppy mess involved as seen with asphalt or concrete.

Some tips on using faux stone backsplashes
Use a mild soap to cleanse it rather than harsh detergents. For additional information check out the installation guidelines at ask the builder or howstuffworks site. When repainting faux stone use water-based acrylic paint. You also have faux painting information available at various sites like hgtv.com, spicykitchens.com etc

From rural country side look to an English country look faux stones seamlessly blend everywhere. With faux stone backsplashes you get the toughness of stone with a light weight polymer.

By: Guru Bhakt

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