Discover the Art of Jewelachite: A Unique Faux Finish
Transform your space with the Jewelachite technique, a stunning faux finish inspired by the elegance of malachite, reimagined in vibrant red and pink hues.
Unveiling Jewelachite: The Inspiration Behind the Technique
Jewelachite is a lux faux finish technique that combines the rich textures of malachite with a bold red, or other jewel-toned, color palette. This innovative method was born out of a desire to bring a touch of luxury and uniqueness to Jewel Marlowe’s 2025 Hamptons Designer Showhouse Lounge. This technique is both beautiful and easy to learn.
Step-by-Step Guide to Faux Finishing
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Collect all necessary supplies: paint (acrylic or latex), acrylic glaze, brushes, and cardboard scraps. Ensure the cardboard is torn in a jagged straight line for best results. I am using Little Greene paint for this tutorial, but any latex would work.
Step 2: Apply the Base Coat
Paint the surface with a contrasting base color, such as Little Greene’s Carmine #189. Go even lighter for more contrast. Allow it to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 3: Create the Malachite Pattern
Mix your paint with approximately one-third acrylic glaze. Using the cardboard as a pivot, scrape a malachite pattern starting from the corner.
Key Tips for Jewelachite Mastery
Choose the Right Paint Type
While acrylic paint flows easier, it needs to be top coated. You can skip the top coat step by using latex.
Perfect Your Glaze Mix
Combine your latex or acrylic paint with one-third (give or take, depending on the needs of your project) acrylic glaze to achieve the desired translucency and workability for the technique.
Master the Cardboard Technique
Use a jagged piece of cardboard to scrape the malachite pattern, varying the pressure for a realistic effect. For a large surface area, start with a larger piece of card board and fill in the gaps with a smaller piece.
Work in Small Sections
To avoid paint drying, work in small sections. If approaching an angle, like on a door frame, it might be helpful to tape off one side of the angle, paint, remove tape, and paint the other side.
Achieve Authentic Gloss
Opt for a semi or high-gloss finish to enhance the authenticity of your Jewelachite surface, mimicking the natural sheen of real malachite. You can also topcoat with a marine grade varnish.
Use Almost ANYWHERE
The beauty of this technique is that it could be used on almost any paintable surface. Imagine furniture, walls, ceilings, floors, picture frames, lamps, lampshades…the list is endless.
