Do I need special paint to do a suede faux finish? I know such paints are available (Ralph Lauren, Sherwin Williams) but I'm wondering what the end product might be like if use a suede painting technique (roller one coat and then do X's for the second coat) with normal paint. THANKS!
I believe the sueded paints have a built-in texture, so regular paint probably won't work as you want it to.
As was pointed out earlier, I think you'll need the suede paint. The paint is really different, sort of a combination of thick and thin. The paint is thin, with the texture making it seem thick. Understand that the suede paint WILL spatter, and the suede roller with the spatter guard is quite useful. Having a smooth wall will really make the suede look better.
Check Lowes Home Improvment, they have suede (an actual textured paint) available in about 12 or so colors. Its cheaper than other retailers , it takes 2 coats, hides imperfections, easy to do ( with a good 3/4 nap roller) and looks great. They have tons of literature on it, and in thursdays they have how-to-classes. If using in a bathroom,kitchen,or anywhere you want to wipe or wash it must cleat coat with water based clear coat. Thanks Jw
Check with a local paint dealer where you can get one-on-one service and advice. Some stores have videos and tutorials to achieve contemporary painting techniques. I know the big box stores have recently started to offer faux painting and other classes in order to gain business. Suede paint has micropolymer beads in it. It's a special paint. Once you use suede paint and you want to change it, it will require sanding to smooth surface and applying primer/sealer to prevent bleed through.
While you will have to use the suede paint to get the right finish, I would suggest painting the wall with an inexpensive flat paint of the same color first to help with the coverage. Because, as you stated, the suede paint is rather expensive and dose not cover well. This will save on the suede paint that you will need.
Tags: suede, faux, finish, suede paint, coat with, have suede, special paint, stores have, they have
