CDA Faux Finishing & Special Effects Techniques

Question 1

Which faux finishing technique involves applying a glaze and then removing portions of it with a bunched cloth to reveal the base coat?

Accepted Answer

Ragging off

Answer

Ragging off is a subtractive technique where wet glaze is lifted from the surface using a bunched rag, exposing the base coat beneath.

Question 2

When creating a venetian plaster finish, which tool is most commonly used to apply and burnish the plaster to achieve a polished marble-like sheen?

Accepted Answer

Wide flat steel trowel

Answer

A wide flat steel trowel is used to apply venetian plaster in thin layers and burnish it under pressure to create the characteristic high-gloss, marble-like finish.

Question 3

A decorative artist wants to simulate the look of aged limestone on a wall. Which base coat sheen level is most appropriate before applying the faux glaze layers?

Accepted Answer

Eggshell or satin

Answer

Eggshell or satin sheens provide a slight tooth for glaze adhesion while still allowing smooth blending, making them ideal for most faux stone finishes.

Question 4

In faux finishing, what is 'open time' referring to?

Accepted Answer

The time a glaze remains workable before drying

Answer

Open time is the period during which a glaze or paint remains wet and workable, allowing the artist to manipulate it to achieve the desired decorative effect.

Question 5

Which medium is typically added to latex paint to create a decorative glaze with extended open time?

Accepted Answer

Floetrol or a glazing liquid

Answer

Floetrol or purpose-made glazing liquids slow the drying of latex paint, extending its open time and improving flow and transparency for faux techniques.

(CDA) Certified Decorative Artist Practice Test

(CDA) Certified Decorative Artist Practice Test

CDA Faux Finishing & Special Effects Techniques