You can replicate the look of travertine with paint effects.
Faking travertine, marble and other stone effects is relatively easy, providing you are patient and prepare well. The appearance of travertine can be easily replicated with paints on a wall, on wood surfaces or over cheap matte ceramic tiles. You must be sure to adequately prepare the surface you are going to apply your paint effect to, in order for the travertine effect to be durable. If painting tiles, apply the tiles to the surface they will be situated on, prior to painting the travertine effect. Take a look at real travertine to get a good idea as to the effect you are recreating.
Instructions
1. Sand the surface to provide a key for your paint to adhere to. Wipe the surface clean with a damp sponge. Allow to dry completely before applying paint.
2. Paint the surface you want to create the travertine effect on a light beige tone. Allow this to dry before continuing your faux effect. Interior flat finish paints will provide the best results for this project.
3. Select three other paint colors - light gray, darker beige and an off-white. Dab the surface randomly with these three colors, using a separate paintbrush for each. While the colors are still wet, use a damp natural sponge to spread and blend the colors on the surface. Apply light pressure to the sponge, using a pouncing, dabbing motion as opposed to dragging the sponge across the wall. You want to create the effect of a cloudy sky, where no particular color is predominant. This technique takes some practise to perfect, and if you are not satisfied with your first attempt, start over with step 2. Allow this paint application to dry completely before continuing.
4. Paint fine veins on the surface with your fine artist's paintbrush and off-white paint. While the paint is still wet, use a cotton rag to dab and smear the veins.
5. Use an interior paint sealant to seal your travertine surface if you are going to be using it in a bathroom, kitchen, an area where water and moisture are present, or a high traffic area.
