Take Home Tips

John Balasa offers some strategies for painters who want to use faux finishes at home:

ú Start small. Once you master the basic techniques on a limited project, such as a jewelry box, then you can expand. Don’t start out trying to learn a technique while tackling 14-foot columns.

ú Take it seriously. Challenge yourself and cultivate your skills. Even with decades of experience, Balasa says he is still learning.

ú Understand the power of color. Pieces work when colors are coordinated, so take the time to learn how different colors and shades complement one another.