Archives for December 2012

French style of decorative painting

The French style of decorative painting or “school” (which is also sometimes called the English or Belgian school) is one of two major “schools” in history that can be discerned; the other is referred to as the Italian school. Both of these styles can be used to render all types of faux finishes. The French […]

Spalter Brush

The spalter brush is one of the most used brushes in the decorative painting kit.  There are 6 sizes of brushes ranging from 6 inches to 1.5 at the smallest.  Each size has a different use.  A spalter is NOT a chip brush.  It is much thicker and made with high-quality bristle.  From strié to […]

Italian style of Decorative Painting

The Italian style of decorative painting is one of two major “schools” or styles in history that can be discerned; the other, the French school (which is also sometimes called the English or Belgian school) Both of these styles can be used to render all types of faux finishes. The Italian Style The first use […]

Chiqueteur

The chiqueteur brush is used to create texture in faux marble.  When replicating marble with paint, you need a background layer that gives a feeling of texture and color.  This is the perfect brush for that.  It is made of natural fiber and can used in both oil and water mediums.  Sure, you can use […]

Andre-Charles Boulle

Andre-Charles Boulle was arguably the best cabinet-maker, chiseler, and marqueter of his time. His 18th century works were specialized for King Louis XIV and displayed in the Palace de Versailles. He created complex inlayed designs using wood, bronze, and organic materials such as tortoise shell. The close-up photos give an enormous amount of information of […]

The Flogger

The flogger  is used to create the background “woodsy texture” of many of the most common woods.  The whipping motion creates an organic pattern that mimics wood pores. This is an essential tool in the the woodgrainer’s kit. When the technique of using the flogger is mastered, it’s a quick money maker when used as […]