I’ve had a few e-mails about the snakeskin misadventure, mostly asking “Was it really that bad?”. Yes and no. I think what set us down the wrong path was that the production stencils (which are stencils that are large and create an overall wall pattern) and the smaller corresponding stencils did not match, pattern-wise. We actually ended up using only the smaller stencils since that design was both stronger and more pleasing. Using the smaller sizes, in addition to making the already-stencilled different patterns match, added to the working time. I’ve since spoken to Faux Effects and they couldn’t have been more gracious and accommodating about the situation. (Thank you Cat and Scott!) It really is a gorgeous realistic pattern but make sure than when doing the finish, over-order on the delicate stencil since it can come apart after a few uses. Why do I say “when you order”? Because I’m posting the recipe (with courtesies from Faux Effects) for all to try and you may find yourself tackling the finish. :)
The recipe is a Faux Effects original and consequently, uses all Faux Effects products. I’ve placed links where needed and pics where possible (I forget to photograph some layers sometimes).
1) Start with as smooth and correctly prepped a surface as possible. For the base color, we used Sherwin-Williams’ Millet but you could also use Aquabond Woody Yellow. Let dry.
2) With a Japan scraper, trowel Venetian Gem Finish Coat through vinyl tulle (also called tulle netting) over the entire surface. We bought the tulle by the yard at our local Jo-Ann Fabrics. You can easily cut and reuse the same material piece a few times. The Venetian Gem goes on white and dries clear. This step creates the underlying scales — a key ingredient in making this finish go from just another “oh, how cool” to a solid “you’ve got to see this room!!!”. Let this layer dry completely.
3) Using Rich Brown and Antique Mahogany Stain & Seal mixed with AquaGlaze, glaze the surface in a vertical motion. You can also use other colors (such as blue, green and irridescent tones) to create a different snakeskin feel. Let this layer dry completely.
4) Stencil FauxCreme Color Black through the Snakeskin Stencil and continue the pattern. There are no registration marks on the stencils but you can easily find where the snakeskin design fits in. I highly recommend using stencil spray for this application to adhere the stencil firmly (but temporarily) to your surface. If on a wall, make sure you use a level at all times. Let dry.
5) Overglaze the entire finish with a Van Dyke Brown aging glaze, which acts as the final step marrying all the layers together. Let dry.
I have to admit that after seeing the final result, I might possibly perhaps maybe consider trying the finish again — on smaller surfaces. Doing an entire room might not be in the cards again…but a cabinet door or under a bar counter? Nice. We’re getting final pics after the interior designers finish doing their magic. I’ll be sure to post them. :)
Oh that’s so fabulous Regina! Great job! Thank you for sharing your recipe – how gracious of you. Perhaps I’ll have to do this sample and show it to Garrison to sell to our next cocktail lounge client. :)
Have a great weekend.
Your designer will love it — it makes for a beautiful sample. Faux Effects let me know that if you create it on craft paper, the realism of it is surreal. Let me know how it goes…
[...] painter, Regina Garay’s blog. Regina and her crew recently did a much more elaborate snake skin project, which she features on her blog. Regina’s work is amazing and I have added her to my [...]
Totally gonna try this. I’ve struggled with a good snakeskin finish! Thank you!