Directions for Marbleizing Columns

Add a touch of class to your home by adding marble. No, not the expensive and heavy kind, the faux kind created with paint. Marbleizing a column adds an old world touch.

Things You'll Need

• Base color paint
• 1 or 2 different shades of the base color
• Vein color paint
• Roller or brush sized to project size
• Sponge or soft rag (sea sponge recommended)
• Soft dry paint brush
• Medium size craft brush
• Fine point narrow brush or feather
• Marble sample (or picture)
• Paint glaze
• Sealer

Instructions

Creating the Marble Backround

1. 

   Select the proper paints for your columns. Decide if you need interior or exterior paint.

2. 

   Apply a streak free base coat.

   Prepare your project surface following the paint manufacturer's directions. Use a brush or roller to apply an even base coat in your finished project's primary background color. This application should be as smooth as possible since most real marble is smooth. Allow to dry.

3. 

   Sea sponges are available at craft stores.

   Follow the glaze label's instructions and mix it with your second color. Generally speaking, the more glaze you use, the more see-through your paint will become. Use your sponge or cloth to gently blend the second color over the base coat. You're starting to create a subtle random background for your fake marble. Use your soft dry brush to even out any harsh lines or marks. Allow to dry completely.

4. Now for even more color variation and a realistic look, repeat Step 3 with your third color.

Add the Detail

1. 

   Using a photograph or piece of real stone (available from home improvement or tile stores) as a guide, take a medium brush or your sponge to add some veining bands. These bands should both blend onto the background color and stay somewhat distinct. Like when applying blush make-up, you want the bands to show but not have a sharp edge.

2. 

   Feather edges make a great veining tool.

   Use your fine point brush or feather to add distinct veins in the color of your choice. These veins can be on top of and/or beside the vein bands. Twist and twirl your veining tool in random jaggy lines and widths. Add odd splatters if you'd like. Again, use your soft dry brush to smooth and soften the look and texture. Dry completely.

3. Seal your project with an appropriate sealer. If you want your project to have a polished look, choose a gloss sealer. For a more honed look, select satin or flat sealer.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice, practice, practice. Using cardboard or scrap lumber, work up a sample of your finished look. Experiment with color and glaze proportions to decide the combination needed for the final look you're after.

References

• Faux Painting Techniques: Marbeling

Resources

• More About Faux Painting