How to Paint Faux Wood

Painting faux wood can be a great way to bring a natural look into an area. It is also an inexpensive alternative to replacing the existing materials of your room, office or other space with real wood. The trick is to make the wood finish look as realistic as possible. One of the best ways to do this is with something you wouldn't normally consider part of painting: a potato. Using some basic paints, a carved potato and a little elbow grease you will soon be well on your way to creating a realistic and convincing faux wood look on whatever material needs it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Potato Knife Acrylic primer Dark brown acrylic paint Light brown acrylic paint Tan acrylic paint 4-inch wide paint brush Matter sealer

1. 
    

   Prime the area that you wish to apply the faux wood to with acrylic primer. Allow this to dry overnight. The primer will help ensure that the colors are bright and vibrant and that they stick with fewer coats.

2. 
    

   Paint the area with light brown paint. Let the paint dry overnight. This will serve as the base for you faux wood.

3. 
    

   Carve out concentric rings in a raw potato. You will use this a tool to add the lines on the wood planks. Dip the potato into the dark brown. Shake off the excess. Place the potato on the wood and move the potato down. Rock it back and forth as you move the potato down. This will create the knots and lines.

4. 
    

   Wipe off the potato and dip it in the tan paint. Move the potato down the wood in the same manner as above. Do this while the dark brown is still wet to get the colors to mix and blend. This will give the paint a realistic look.

5. Spray the entire area with matte sealer to ensure that the paint does not chip or flake.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to paint in a well ventilated open area.