Frequently Asked Questions

What is faux finishing?

Faux finishing is a technique that started hundreds and even thousands of years ago, and has been used by some of the greatest artists of all time to make surfaces appear to be of a substance other that what they really are. Italian Masters uses those same techniques today.

What is preparation?

Preparation (prepping) as it relates to painting is the process of filling cracks, nail holes, sanding, and basic cleaning of the surface to be painted or faux finished to ensure the highest quality result possible.

Does the surface I am finishing need to be prepped?

In most cases yes. Even if your surface is of new construction, the base surface generally requires some attention. Any imperfections will be magnified when applying the faux finish; therefore, preparation is strongly advised to ensure the highest quality of the final product.

What is texturing?

Texturing can be converting your existing wall to a slick or smooth surface if it is already textured or it can be adding texture such as a skip trowel effect. Most construction today has a blown on texture that gives it an orange peel appearance. Ours is hand troweled on your walls and adds depth when the final glaze is applied. With the Italian Masters texture, you get the added benefits of incredible flexibility, amazing durability and mold / fungus resistance.

How long will it take to faux my wall or room?

In most case 1-2 days. Adding texture to your wall surfaces adds an additional day resulting in a total of 3 days.

Can I faux over my existing wall surface or does it need to be textured?

It is a matter of personal preference and the final look desired. Faux finishes can be applied to both smooth and textured finishes. It absolutely depends on the final look you are trying to achieve.

Can you refinish my existing bathroom or kitchen cabinets?

Absolutely and without stripping your cabinets, saving you time and expense. Our proprietary formula goes over your existing cabinet surface and can create finishes beyond belief while saving you considerable cost if you are thinking of remodeling your bathroom or kitchen. And yes it works on new unfinished cabinets as well. In fact, we have some relief techniques that are available on new wood that produce an unbelievable finish. Click here to see our doors and cabinet samples.

What other services do you provide?

We provide finishes too numerous to name that range from precious stone, to wood graining, to murals and trompe-l?oiel. Click here to visit our sample galleries.

Can I purchase any of your products?

Yes. Italian Masters products are here! We have a line of texture finish, Venetian Plaster, base paint, and glaze under the Italian Masters name and produced by one of the worlds leading paint manufacturers.

How does what Italian Masters do differ from sponging or rag rolling?

Sponging and rag rolling as it has become today are techniques that have developed in an effort to replicate what faux artists actually do. Italian Masters uses the Old World techniques to convert your own personal space into a work of art.

Who will help me select colors?

Many people prefer handling color selections themselves. For others we have assisted with color design and have done so in some of the most prestigious homes in America. If you have a designer, we will work with them or can assist you in selecting a designer.

How will faux finishes affect the value of my home?

Italian Masters has numerous testimonials commenting on the speed of sale as a result of the faux finishes in their homes, which then sets the standard for buyers expectations. We will let you place the value on the economics of a speedy sale.

Do I need to move my furniture?

We ask that you move any valuables prior to our arrival. We will photograph your room prior to moving any furniture. Next, we move all furniture, cover it and the floors with plastic and then cover the plastic on the floors with construction paper. We will surprise you at how clean we maintain the work area.

Will the final product look like the sample?

Surprisingly so. The lighting in the room and the amount of windows will affect the final color. Our product is flexible, enabling us to adjust the finish to your desired look.