Friday, March 19, 2010

This took FAUX-ever!

Or: From 80's to Old World
Or: The Project That Wouldn't End

Yesterday I posted about my attempt at changing a garage sale find into something more my style. What I ended up with was something still 80's in a different color sense but just as retina scorching. Since then I've been faux finishing my fingers to the bone trying to make it fit in my space. And not burn my eyes. Want to make sure you know that was my main goal.
If you want to read the first part go here.

To tone things down I first dry brushed some bronze metallic paint on my black portions.



Then I made a wash (watered down paint) of a light tan to take the bite out of that white but keep the luminous pearl visible.

I applied the wash liberally then dabbed with a paper napkin.


Next I took a less watered down wash of a much darker brown and applied it to the outside edges of my white triangles, let slightly dry, then wiped off with a paper napkin. The best thing about this stuff? It if gets too dark or in the wrong place a little water and dabbing or wiping takes care of it.

Now it looks old and has a little dimension to it. By now my eyes are crossed. This thing has taken me three days to finish!


But doesn't that look better?




Whew! I need a nap. Or at least something new to look at. I think I'll go sit in a lawn chair outside and enjoy this 60 degrees and sunshine!

Linking to:
Poppies At Play (creative cats)

5 comments:

Melissa said...

Yay indeed! It looks great.

Kel said...

Great Post. Just swinging by to wish you a happy weekend!

Marie said...

Gorgeous job! I would love it in my house... perhaps you could send it my way,,,
Marie @ Lemondrop ViNtAge
Spring into Spring giveaway

theUngourmet said...

This turned out so beautiful! I love the distressed look. You did such a nice job!

Andy Porter said...

I love the "yuck,yikes yay" pic. Too clever! It looks AMAZING! Thanks so much for linking to Creative Cats!!

XOXO,
Andy