Guide to Faux Painting in Omaha, NE

Have you ever walked into a home and been amazed by walls that look like aged stone, Venetian plaster, or even wood grain—only to find out it’s all just paint? Standard wall paint can only do so much to create character and depth in a space. If your walls feel flat and uninspiring, and you don’t want to mess with the idea of wallpaper, faux painting might be the perfect solution. But figuring out what style to choose, whether it fits your home, and how to ensure it’s done right can be overwhelming.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve been helping Omaha homeowners bring personality and charm to their walls since 1996. We use high-quality paint products and focus on meticulous prep work to ensure a flawless finish. Whether you’re looking for a classic, textured look or a modern, sleek faux finish, we’ve seen it all and know how to guide you through the decision-making process.

This guide will give you a complete understanding of faux painting, including what it is, ideas, how to do it, and whether it’s right for your home. You’ll also learn about the cost involved, how to hire the right professional, and the steps required to achieve a stunning faux finish. By the end, you’ll feel confident in knowing if you should have your walls faux painted, or not.

What Is Faux Painting?

Faux painting (or faux finish paint) is a decorative technique that creates the illusion of materials like marble, wood, leather, or stone using paint and glaze. Instead of wallpaper or textured materials, faux painting uses multiple layers of paint to add depth and dimension to a surface. It’s a fantastic way to add sophistication and warmth to your home without the cost of expensive materials.

Faux Paint Finish Ideas for Walls

There are many ways to achieve a unique look with faux wall painting. Here are some of the most popular techniques:

1. Venetian Plaster Walls 

• Gives walls a smooth, polished look with the illusion of depth
• Mimics the appearance of polished stone or marble
• Ideal for living rooms, entryways, or accent walls

2. Rag Rolling Walls

• Creates a soft, textured effect by rolling a rag over a painted wall
• Works well in spaces that need a subtle, artistic touch
• This can be done with one or multiple colors for added dimension

3. Sponging Walls

• Use a sponge to apply or remove layers of paint
• Gives walls a soft, mottled effect, similar to aged stone or suede
• Great for adding warmth and character to bedrooms or dining rooms

4. Color Washing Walls

• Blends two or more colors together for a soft, layered effect
• Works well for creating a cozy, rustic feel
• Often used in kitchens, hallways, or sunrooms

5. Brushed Pearl or Metallic Finishes on Walls

• Adds a subtle shimmer or reflective quality to walls
• Ideal for modern and elegant spaces like dining rooms or offices
• Requires specific application techniques to avoid uneven sheen

The Cost of Faux Painting

Faux painting is typically more expensive than a standard paint job due to the time and skill required to achieve the desired effect. Depending on the complexity of the finish, costs can range from $5 to $25 per square foot. 

High-end techniques like Venetian plaster or metallic finishes require multiple layers and professional expertise, which can drive up the price. However, when compared to materials like natural stone or wood paneling, faux painting is a more affordable way to get a high-end look without the heavy price tag.

Is Faux Painting Right for Your Home?

Before deciding on a faux finish paint job, consider the following:

• Your Home’s Style: Faux paint finishes for walls can work well in traditional, rustic, and even modern homes. Venetian plaster looks sophisticated in a historic home, while brushed pearl can add a contemporary touch to a sleek space.
• Your Budget: Faux painting is often more cost-effective than installing natural stone or wood paneling, but it does require more labor than a standard paint job.
• Durability Needs: Some faux finishes hold up better than others in high-traffic areas. Venetian plaster is durable and wipeable, while color washing might not be the best choice for a kid’s playroom.

How to Faux Paint a Wall

If you’re considering DIY wall faux painting, know that it takes practice and patience. Here’s an overview of the general process:

1. Prep the Walls: Clean, sand, and prime the surface for a smooth base.
2. Base Coat Application: Apply a solid color that serves as the foundation.
3. Glazing or Layering: Using specialized tools (sponges, rags, or brushes), apply the faux paint layers.
4. Blending & Texturing: Depending on the technique, you may need to blend the colors using soft, circular motions.
5. Sealing the Finish: Some faux finishes require a topcoat to protect the design and add longevity.

Should You Hire a Professional?

While DIY is an option, professional painters bring experience, thorough work, and high-quality materials to ensure your faux finish looks stunning and lasts for years. A poorly executed faux paint job can result in streaks, uneven textures, or an overall look that doesn’t match your vision.

If you decide to hire a professional, here’s what to look for:

• Experience in Faux Finishes: Not all painters specialize in faux painting. Make sure they have examples of past work.
• Proper Prep Work: A great faux finish starts with proper wall preparation. Ask how they prep before painting.
• High-Quality Materials: Cheap glazes and paints don’t hold up over time. Ensure your painter uses durable products.

Faux Painting in Omaha, NE

Faux painting can completely transform a space, adding depth, texture, and a custom feel that standard paint just can’t achieve. Whether you’re looking for a soft, aged patina or a bold, textured design, faux finishes offer endless possibilities for Omaha homeowners. We hope this guide has helped you understand what faux painting is, the options available, and what to consider before making your decision.

If you’re ready to bring your vision to life, Brush & Roll Painting is here to help. Our expert team ensures high-quality results that last, so you can have results that you love for as long as possible. Click the button below to start your project and talk with our team.

If you’re not ready to get a quote or don’t live in the Omaha metro area, click the button below to get our Paint Color & Design guide so that you can get more tips and tricks for choosing the right paint shades for your project, whether you are faux painting or not.