Step by Step
Acquerello (Colorwash)
Acquerello (ah-queer-rell-o), is Italian for watercolor. With the texture of sandstone and the rich glow of the rising sun, you’re sure to find the perfect wall for this glorious finish. Colorwashing over slight texture is such an affordable and easy way to build depth and radiant light effects on larger walls in today’s homes. For incredibly flat and lap-free protection, use ProFaux Zero Gloss Varnish for years of durability.
Materials List:
• Pro-Sandstone Base – Roll-On
(Can be tinted to desired base color)
• Pro-Sandstone Base – Paste
• Blue Steel Spatulas
• Plastic Float
• ProFaux Zero Gloss Varnish
• ProFaux Stonewash Pigments –
Orange, Yellow Oxide and White
• Flat Latex Paint (Optional)
• Smooth Roller and Tray
• Cellulose Sponge
• Sanding Sponge
Application Method:
Prime the wall surface with acrylic or oil based flat primer sealer. No additional prep or sealing coats are required.
1. Roll on a coat of Pro-Sandstone Base – Roll On Paint using a rough nap roller. The Base may be tinted with Flat Latex Paint)
2. Use Blue Steel Spatulas to apply Pro-Sandstone Base Paste. Work product into the low areas while keeping a wet edge on your blade. Freely create a natural looking stone effect. Let the surface set up for about 15 minutes, then lightly polish the surface with a damp Plastic Float.
3. Mix the following ProFaux Stonewash Pigments with a small amount of water. Orange, Yellow Oxide and White Pigments. For larger jobs, mix 2 or 3 Tablespoons to 1 quart of water.
4. Use a cellulose sponge to apply the pigments at random. Color “wash” the surface and allow the colors to blend together in a natural, organic way.
5. Allow the color to set up for a few minutes and continue to use a cellulose sponge to further blend the colors to an subtle finish. Use a sanding sponge to subtract color if you wish.
6. Fix dry colors with Profaux Zero Gloss Varnish for a natural look and surface protection.
Variations on a theme.
Create numerous color combinations with any tinted Pro-Sandstone Base Roll On Paints and ProFaux Stonewash Pigments.
Application: Thickness does affect the Pro-Sandstone products. Thicker applications will take longer to dry and reveal cracking. May be applied with tools such as brush, roller, spatula and trowel. Coverage: Varies widely depending upon application method: 75-175 sq.ft. per gallon.
Drying Time: Allow 2 hours to overnight, depending on film thickness (68 degrees @ 65% RH).
Here are the steps!
Step 1: After preparing the surface, tint the Pro-Sandstone Base Roll On Paint to the desired color with latex paint. Mix well. Roll apply with a rough nap roller. Let the surface dry for at least 2 hours.
Step 2: Use Blue Steel Spatulas to apply Pro-Sandstone Base Paste. Keep a wet edge on your blade. Create a natural looking stone effect. Let it set up, then lightly polish the surface with a damp Plastic Float.
Step 3: Mix the following ProFaux Stonewash Pigments with water. Orange, Yellow Oxide and White Pigments.
Step 4: Use a cellulose sponge to apply the pigments at random. Color “wash” the surface and allow the colors to blend together in a natural, organic way.
Step 5: Continue to use a cellulose sponge to further blend the colors to an subtle finish. Use a sanding sponge to subtract color if you wish.
Step 6: Fix the dry Stonewash colors with Zero Gloss Varnish. Apply with a roller.