Most Faux finishes involve adding a tinted and diluted was or glaze to an already existing painted surface to create a layered effect. Faux finishes add depth, texture and interest to otherwise bland wall finishes.
A wash is a water -based paint that has been diluted with water. A Glaze is an oil-based product that has been diluted with solvent. Depending on the surface of your base coat, whether it is an oil base or water base, determines what type of finish you can use. If your base coat is oil-base, you will need to use an oil-based glaze that has been thinned with solvent. Just lightly sand to rough up the surface. If your base coat is water base (latex or alkyd paint) , you can apply either an oil-base glaze or a water-base wash.
Because the base coat of your wall is meant to be visible, it is advisable to make any repairs before applying your faux finish. Patch as needed and apply a new base coat. The simplest faux finishes – colorwashing,sponging and ragging on- work well on walls with slight imperfections, as the multiple layers tend to hide minor flaws.

Colorwashing

To colorwash with a glaze, dilute the glaze 75 percent with a solvent and apply with a brush. Blend it out with a dry paint brush or rag, wiping off the glaze until you achieve the effect you like. Additional coats may be applied, just make sure previous coats have had sufficient time to dry.

To colorwash with a wash, mix 9 parts water with 1 part paint. Apply paint to the wall with a roller quickly and haphazardly. Let the wash dry and apply 2 or 3 more coats. For your final coat, apply a layer of wash, diluted 4 parts water to 1 part paint. The, using a damp sponge or brush, blur the edges to blend the wash with the background color.

Sponging

Sponging is similar to colorwashing, except it involves applying your wash with a large, damp sponge. Use a sea-sponge with medium size pores.
Starting with a damp sponge, (moistened with water if using a wash, solvent if using a glaze), dab the wall gently and rotate the sponge. Use smaller sponges for inside corners and hard to reach areas.
For areas that cannot be reached with a sponge, use an artist brush to mimic the sponge effect. Let dry and repeat as needed.

Ragging On

Ragging on is similar to sponging, except you use a cotton rag. This creates more of an inconsistent finish. This works best with colors that are similar to your base coat.

Ragging Off

Ragging off involves covering the entire base coat with your wash or glaze, the removing paint as needed with a wet rag. You create the look. You must work fast with this method. An Alkyd Glaze is the best choice for this method.

Dragging

Dragging is another removal technique that creates more of a uniform striped effect.Coat the entire wall with your wash or glaze, then drag a brush or rag across the surface to create lines. Once again you must work fast with this method.

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