I'm about to try smooshing for the first time (actually it's my first attempt at any faux painting). I've researched this technique ad nauseam and am confident I can do a quality job. The one thing that seemed to be very different across my research was the actual mix ratio of glaze-to-paint for the top faux coat. I've seen people use anything from 4::1 up to 8::1 (glaze-to-paint). Which ratio gives the best results? I'm using tone-on-tone base and glaze coat from the same color range sample cards. My base is 3 or 4 shades lighter than my paint that will be mixed with the glaze. I like a darker type effect so I was thinking of going with the 4 or 5 to 1 ratio mix. Just looking for advice from some veterans of the technique. I'm using latex based Sherwin Williams paint products and 1.5 mil plastic for the smooshing effect.
Thanks in advance for any advice.
kimeyers
02-15-05, 06:38 AM
I've used SW Glaze, but its been a looong time, so I'm sure one of the professionals can give you specific advise on the product mix. What does the glaze say is the appropriate mix, as the proportions vary depending on the glaze product. I am assuming you are using latex, which dries faster. The more paint you have, the more opaque your glaze will be and the faster it will dry. Are you doing a negative or positive effect (rolling/brushing on and removing w/plastic OR applying paint with plastic)? You need longer working time for the negative effect, but you can always add a paint conditioner/extender--Sherwin Williams makes one specifically for latex glazes.
To get the right shade/consistency, you will probably want to practice before you start on the walls. You can use poster board painted with the base coat, but the sample boards at a big box store or get scrap drywall which many big box home improvement stores will give you for free. After practicing, you will get to see whether the consistency is correct, and whether the depth of color is satisfactory.
Good luck, and have fun!