The Focused Finisher: 10 Things to Get for 2018

I gave up Resolutions a long time ago.  Too much pressure.  Instead I like to select one idea (my power word) and a few specific realistic things that will make my life and business run more smoothly.  Here is my list for 2018!

1. Get a Power Word.  This is the word that will guide you in 2018. I started this practice 4 years ago with the word "Focused" and I still use it as my moniker.  Since then I've selected words I wanted at the time:  "Resilience" in 2016 or words that  I needed: "Resourcefulness" in 2017.  This year I struggled to decide on my word and it turned out my feeling of unease was the answer.

My 2018 word is "Settled." To resolve and fix. To take up residence and furnish. To quite, calm and bring to rest.  To conclude and make stable. I am a restless creature by nature but the last few years have been too chaotic-this is the perfect word for me!
What is your word for 2018?

2.  Get Organized.  This is coming from someone who saves every teaspoon of product and pulls cheesecloth out of the trash. I "feed" my glazes for years.  But there comes a time to clean out, let things go and get the studio in order.  Now I am a Magpie meaning I get easily distracted by shiny objects..."Oh a magazine"..."Look at this sample"....you get the idea. If you are like me, then enlist the help of your bossy friend (this would be my sister Sally) and your cleaning machine friend (this would be my friend Jeannette).  Having help makes it easier to throw things away, clean tools, and consolidate product.  A fresh studio equals a fresh start. What will you do to organize your creative space?

3.  Get Office Hours.  It is easy to get stuck in the day-to-day operations of a creative business especially one like decorative painting where you are working off-site and under tight budgets and deadlines.  Many of us take phone calls while we are working. Check our social media during the day.  Fit in the bidding and billing whenever we can.  And ignore things like our web-sites.  I suggest setting up a specific time to do these things. For example:

Monday 3pm-5pm:  Weekly tasks such as checking web-site, writing blog or newsletter. Following up with clients. Writing bids and billing.  Product Inventory. 

Weekdays 7pm-8pm.  Consultation phone calls or emails.  This gives you dedicated time to really talk (and listen) to clients.  Check social media-if you do this in the am you will find yourself wasting the morning (trust me, I know).

Sunday 7pm-9pm. Mix products and pack bins with supplies and tools for the work week.

What will be your Office Hours?

4.  Get Social.  There is no way around it. Social marketing is here to stay.  There are many choices: Facebook (personal pages, business pages, and groups), Instagram (personal and business), Pinterest, LinkedIn, Twitter, Snapchat and Web-sites.  It's tempting to do them all but just repeating what you put on each site is not effective. And it takes a lot of time. While you may participate in many social networks, research the different platforms and find two that match your goals where you will focus your energies. I will go more in-depth on this during our business series blog posts. For now, examine the sites where you are putting your time. Are you getting the results you want? Connecting with new customers? Maintaining productive relationships with current clients and colleagues? Do you have time for a blog? Or would a newsletter work better?

What two platforms will you focus on this year?

5.  Get a Camera.  I love my cell phone camera. It's convenient. It links to my social media. There is video capabilities and filters. While the pictures are perfect for things like Facebook and Instagram, they are not great for web-site and magazine publications. We find this is a problem when publishing our on-line magazine Faux Effects World.  Get a small digital camera (most are under $150) with a memory card.  I just pop out the card and download it directly to my computer.  Stage your pictures like a magazine: Turn on all the lights. Use natural light. Get close-up. Take out items such as cups, clutter and personal objects-pets are fine and add charm.  Move your ladders and drop cloths. Remember before & after.  What camera will you use this year?

6.  Get Published. We are always looking for quality pictures of projects using Faux Effects products and want to share your work through our blog, social media sites and Faux Effects World Magazine.  Guess what? You don't have to write the article (that's part of my job), you just need to submit content.  There are contest, like the current APC Top Job, where you get recognition nationally and locally.  And local magazines are always looking for stories. Stop being shy! What projects will you share this year?  Where will you be published? 

7.  Get Connected.  " I send out information to prospective clients and designers with no results, what am I doing wrong?"  I get this question or a variation of it all the time.  We get so much information-just think of the emails, updates, push notifications and junk snail mail you get daily. It's easier to ignore what we don't feel connected to. Never forget that the main thing you are selling is YOU! You have to get out there and meet people face-to-face. Let them know the person behind the product. 

If you are looking to add more business, attend one event that puts you in front of an audience. This may be a home show, a parade of homes or a holiday event. Where are the networking opportunities in your community? Start researching 2018 events now to find the best fit for audience, costs and location.  What event and/or group will I attend this year?

8.  Get A Class Account. How many times does this happen? When you have the money, you have no time for classes. When you have the time for classes, you have no money. I wrote in my last blog post about the benefit of taking classes and how the benefits extend beyond the new samples. I suggest adding on a fixed amount to your bids, even if it's just $50-$100, and setting this aside for an educational fund. Look at your calendar. What months are slower for you? Studios offer classes all year round while organizations have set conference dates.  There are many options.  If you start planning now, you will be better prepared when a class catches your eye.  How much will you save each month in a class account? 

9.  Get Out of Your Comfort Zone. This is related to number 8 since we take classes to build a portfolio to (hopefully) get jobs. But the challenge here is to learn something that expands your wheelhouse.  It may not get you a specific job but it helps you grown as an artist-and maybe as a person! Last year I went by myself  to Craftcation, which was a conference for "makers."  I was the only finisher there but I learned so much about social marketing from people who make jewelry or scarves or write cooking blogs.  This year I want to take a portrait class because I agonize over painting people or pets.  Maybe you're interested in canvas art, furniture or home decorative items? Have you been thinking of writing? Are you looking to expand your offerings into design services? Stop wishing and start doing! What new skill will you try this year?

10. Get Stocked on Product! OK. This one is totally self-serving. But hey, it's our blog and a good sale! Since you're going to be so successful from implementing suggestions 1-9, you will need product to get going! And the time is limited.

I'm interested to hear what your plans are for 2018! Please share your power words and things you would like to GET this new year.

Thanks for being here during 2017. Have a safe & happy New Year's Eve,

Rebecca

DIY: A Copper Bronze Furniture Finish

There are many things I love about being a decorative artist. Near the top of that list is the thrill of finding diamond in the rough furniture.  I've spent many weekends at flea markets, consignment stores and antique shops on the hunt for unloved but unique pieces. And best of all, since no one knows what to do with them, you can score a real bargain. My whole house is filled with these treasures.

This time the project is for a client.  I've already finished the walls, columns and table for this dining room. Plus I helped select the paint and light fixture.

Faux Effects Quartzstone, Stuco Lustro, Old World Venetian Wax and Mica Powders

Close-up of high polish plaster in Charcoal with Bronze and Copper Mica Powders.

Copper Crystal and Rubbed Bronze light fixture

The dining table in Faux Effects Copper Faux Metal and Custom tinted glazes.

A big trend for 2018 interiors is mixed metals. Obviously our main metal is Copper with a mix of a golden Bronze.  So I was excited to find this sofa table at a Kansas City consignment store. The marble is in perfect shape and the colors are spot on.

But the wood base was drab and dark.  No worries. Time for a Metallic Makeover!

The first step in a furniture makeover is the clean the surface, a light sand, and a final wipe down with denatured alcohol.  My base paint is Faux Effects Designer Metallic in Charred Gold.  I wanted the base to be a warm brown based gold therefore I did not add the silver concentrate that came with the Designer Metallic. The easiest way to apply with out spraying is to brush on the paint and pounce it with a Leon Neon.

Well I've been reversing the first and last name for years! Leon Neon.

I let my base paint dry over night.  The next step is unexpected but I use this mix and technique a lot on furniture, cabinets and front doors.  Mix 1 quart of  Aquawax + 2 Cups of Metal Glow + 1/4 Cup So-Slow Super Extender.  The wet mix will look cloudy-that's the wax. But it will dry to the metallic color.  My mix will fill in flaws, protect the surface and create a strong slick surface for further glazing.

The Metal Glow for this project is Ginger Brown.  There is not much wood on this side table so I cut my recipe in half.

I brush the mix over the surface and pounce with the Leon Neon (see you will use this brush a lot).

Even though there is So-Slow Extender added this layer usually is dry within a few hours. Always check each layer for bonding before proceeding as dry times vary due to climate and thickness of application.  Next I mix a pint of glaze medium: Faux Crème Clear, Aquacreme or FX Thinner (all will work with Metal Glow) + 1/2 Cup Sunburst Metal Glow + 1/4 Cup Antique Mahogany Stain & Seal.

Brush on the mix and pounce with cheesecloth. I wipe back the high areas more with the cheesecloth.

I use a flat small squared brush to tip and shape the architecture of the piece.  Van Dyke Brown Stain & Seal thinned with FX Thinner will work for this step.  The glaze and detail layers should dry overnight.


To seal the piece, I mixed a pint of  un-tinted Aquawax  with 2 TBSP So-Slow Extender. This is thinly brushed over the surface and wiped back with the cheesecloth. Avoid letting it collect in the deeper areas or corners to avoid a frosty look.  I used the Aquawax because I had it in an earlier layer but you can top coat this finish with Varnish Plus or C500 if desired.

Here is a version of the same finish with  Faux Effects Fauxstone Pull-Off added under the base coat.

Don't forget this is the last week for the December Metal Glow Sale if you want to try this finish yourself.

Rebecca 

Start the New Year with "Timeless Creations"

Taking the time to invest in yourself

Rust finish by The Faux Finish School

We just came off the season of gift giving and, if you're like me, when it's all over there is one person who might have missed-Yourself!  Making time for creative growth is a major investment I've enthusiastically valued as both an instructor and a student.

Now I understand the challenges of taking classes. There is travel and time away from work. Plus the cost of a class. Sure there are on-line classes or videos. Those are all viable options for expanding education and a welcome addition to our profession.  But I am here to share with you the first class of 2018 hosted by a Faux Effects Studio and why it's an example of how nothing will ever replace the experience of a hands-on class.

This the Class:

"Timeless Creations...Interpretation by Inspiration...

The Art and Business of Faux Finishing Workshop

Louisville, Kentucky

January 8th-12th 2018

This workshop is designed for those looking to expand their portfolio of decorative finishes with 30 samples over 5 days. The perfect class for the beginning finisher to the seasoned professional. 

"Timeless Creations" Samples by The Faux Finish School

Reason One:  A hands-on class gives you time to explore a variety of products and techniques. This class is divided into 3 current categories:  Classic Old World, Black, White & Grey, and Hollywood Glamour.

The Faux Finish School

The Faux Finish School

You are able to see how Faux Effects' products work together from simple layers to developing more complex finishes. Asking your own questions as you work and listening to the questions of others as you work leads to new insights and ideas that go beyond the samples actually made in the class. Which leads me to:

Reason Two: Meeting and interacting with leading instructors. This class is taught by Martin Alan Hirsch, Founder & Director of The Faux Finish School.

And Morey Dunbar, Lead Instructor for The Faux Finish School.

There is something special when you watch an experienced teacher lead you in a finish, guide your hand as you work and share their own personal stories about the business. This class includes time to talk about bidding, managing a job and marketing.

Now is your chance to get up close to a technique-watch exactly how to hold a brush or angle the trowel.  Notes will guide you in a class but a good instructor makes a career come alive!

Reason Three: Working in a world class studio environment.

Classroom at The Faux Finish School

Isn't it nice to show up to a place where you have space to work? This studio has lots of natural light with a cool industrial vibe. 

When you take a class like "Timeless Creations" all your supplies and tools are provided. Product is there and ready to use. There is a written notebook ready so you may concentrate on the demonstrations rather then trying to keep up with a recipe. You have areas to safely hang your samples and room to enjoy your own work and the work of others...leading to my favorite reason for attending a class

Classroom at The Faux Finish School

Reason Four: The friendships you form with instructors, studio staff and the other students are invaluable. Many finishers work by themselves. This is where you find your tribe. During class you get to see how someone else approaches a finish. It's your time to give praise and accept accolades of your own! 

The Faux Finish School Business Discussion

After class, in a relaxed environment, you get to process all the things you learned that day.  My fondest memories of any training are the sharing of meals, stories and laughs.  I always leave inspired and recharged-so will you!

Ready to find out more about the class?  You may visit the website at www.fauxfinish.com or The Faux Finish School on Facebook. Registration is available at www.fauxmarketplace.com. Want to connect in person? Call (502)583-0102.

Can't wait to see your pictures and samples from the class, 

Rebecca 

Yes Virgina, there is Faux.

Dear Rebecca,

I am a finisher. Some of my friends are telling me there is no Faux. They watch television and everything is white...white cabinets, white walls, white ceilings. SO, please tell me the truth? IS there still Faux?

Virginia, 
Anywhere USA

Virginia, your friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a few. They only believe what they see on popular TV. They think nothing can be done unless the masses say so. All people, Virginia, have the capacity to embrace originality, they may just be afraid to take the chance.

Yes, Virginia, there is Faux. We may call it the Decorative Arts but surely it is alive just as beauty and art exist. Just as we trust the taste of fine wine, the smell of cookies baking, or the laughter of our loved ones, we know creating unique environments provides joy that gives our home's special meaning.  Alas, how dreary would it be to only live in a world devoid of color, texture or pattern! It would be as dreary as a world without Virginias! As with poetry, song and personal adornment, these are the ways we express ourselves and our individuality

Not believe in Faux! You might as well not believe in style or design. Because these are the essence of the decorative arts. Imagine culture without the wonders of the hieroglyphics and  the Sistine Chapel.  Think of the fabulous estates like Biltmore or the Breakers without lavish gold leaf and exuberant palettes.  As children we revel in the tactile and the sparkly. We get our hands dirty because it is fun.What a loss it would be to never play with plaster, crackle, or glitter as an adult!

So I say to you, Virginia, thank goodness there is Faux. It provides an avenue for those who trust that surrounding themselves in artistry has value. It provides a livelihood to countless men and women who are fascinated by making things with their hands.

The whims of taste will swing away for awhile but we are creatures made to appreciate the lovely. Have faith Virginia. The pendulum is in your favor. The word may be "faux" but the desire for creative expression is real. Paint your front door a bold red, Glaze your cabinets and venetian plaster your walls. Stencil your ceiling and hang your original art. Then open that door to your friends. I promise they will not want to leave.

Rebecca

Happy Holidays to all who believe in the Decorative Arts. For you are the fire of a community that will warm many homes to come. To all our studios, instructors, and students, we thank you for supporting Faux Effects. We wish for you to enjoy time with family and friends. Together we will look forward to a prosperous New Year.


( Please read the delightful original editorial, "Yes, Virginia,  There is a Santa Claus" published in 1897 by the New York Sun. It was written by veteran newsman, Francis Pharcellus Church)

How to cook up a winning finish with 3 simple ingredients

I have a confession to make. My approach to cooking and finishing are the same.  For my own use, I measure nothing instead preferring to look at an ingredient, smell it and then decide to add or not add. Now I understand the chemistry of what I'm doing.  For example I know that Metal Glow will stick directly to a surface without adding any thing to it-it has binders.  Just like I know Baking Soda is a leavening agent that gives baked goods their texture.  This approach works well in the experimentation phase but not so great in the final delivery. You need a solid recipe!

Tis the season to share a good recipe-something you can pass on like a great Friendship Cake starter-  I have 2 great recipes that use the same 3 ingredients (measurements included) for your current or next finishing job. Let's start with one for walls and ceilings. These are the 3 things you will need:

A Leon Neon Brush

Cheesecloth Bolt -the kind that comes off in pieces and doesn't shed

 And Metal Glow!

You can tell by the little bit left in my bottle how much I love the color the Martini Olive.

In fact, our first recipe with these 3 ingredients uses Martini Olive and is shared by Martin Alan Hirsch and Morey Dunbar of The Faux Finish School in Louisville, Kentucky. 

Croce Metallica, which means "crosshatch metallic" but sounds more expensive the other way.

Start with a base of Taupe Setcoat.

Over the dried base coat, use a large brush to crosshatch Firewood Metal Glow.  Crosshatching means you brush the paint on in big overlapping "X's".  Use the Leon Neon to soften as needed. Your base color will show through-no problem. Let this dry.

Next you will mix So-Slow Extender

with 

Firewood Metal Glow

Martini Olive Metal Glow

Milk and Honey Metal Glow.

For 1 quart of Metal Glow, add 1/4 Cup of So-Slow.

You will use large brushes to crosshatch each color starting with the Martini Olive and layering with the Firewood and Milk & Honey colors. The ratios of application are:

Firewood    20% coverage

Martini Olive    10% coverage

Milk and Honey  30% coverage

As you brush on these colors, you will pounce with the Leon Neon. To soften the finish more, use the cheesecloth for finer stippling.

While your colors are wet, brush and stipple in more of the Milk and Honey Metal Glow.

A great simple finish! Morey says she has sold this finish several times and in many different color combinations. Since there are 67 colors of Metal Glow there are many ways to adapt this recipe.  For example: 

Substituting Pewter Metal Glow for the Firewood

Coffeebean Metal Glow for the Martini Olive

and 

Elephant Hide Metal Glow for the Milk and Honey

Thanks so much to Martin and Morey for sharing their recipe. You can find out more about The Faux Finish School by visiting www.fauxfinish.com.

Check back this weekend when I share a recipe that also uses Metal Glow, A Neon Leon and Cheesecloth for a furniture finish. Let's keep our Friendship Cake Starter going....

Rebecca