How to Create a Faux Tin Ceiling

Creating a faux tin ceiling is an economical way to add charm and intricate detail to your home, without spending a lot of money. There are a myriad of ways that you can create a faux tin ceiling. There are certain things that you need to consider when attempting this project. The faux tin ceiling should look as close to the real thing as possible. It also needs to be shiny, as well as textured. Without these properties, the faux tin ceiling will easily be noticed as not the real thing. The following article will share with you tips on how to create a very realistic faux tin ceiling.

Choosing the Right Faux Tin Ceiling Option

There are several ways to create a faux tin ceiling. These include steel that has been coated with tin and then finished with a variety of powder coats. You can also use PVC. Another method is to stamp drop ceiling tiles and then paint them. The last method is to use wallpaper. This is by far the easiest the least expensive of all the options.

Choose the Right Wallpaper

It has to be textured, and noticeably so, or else the faux tin ceiling will look flat. The wallpaper should also be no more than 2 colors. Darker colors are preferred. Avoid wallpaper that has touches of fabric like felt or velvet.

Cutting Wallpaper for the Faux Tin Ceiling

When creating a faux tin ceiling, it is important to create the feel of actual tiles. In order to get the same look of tiles the wallpaper should be cut into squares. You will need a ruler, pencil and a utility knife. Choose an area on the wallpaper where the pattern is full and not cut off by an edge. Use the ruler to draw a square that is either 12-inches by 12-inches, or 24-inches by 24-inches, which are the standard sizes for a tin tile. Then, cut each tile out using the utility knife. You could use a pair of scissors to do this job, but you will run the risk of creating tears in the wallpaper. The edges could also curl up, which will make affixing the squares difficult.

Affixing the Wallpaper

When you are creating a faux tin ceiling using wallpaper, affix it to the ceiling in the same way as you would normally affix wallpaper. Apply the paste or adhesive to the back of a wallpaper square, and then press it to the ceiling. Use a paint roller to press it down. All of the tiles will be affixed in this fashion.

The Faux Finish

This very well may be the most important aspect of the faux tin ceiling. You need to purchase faux metal satin paint, in the color of your choice. It is usually brass, copper or steel. They come in spray cans. Position the can about 3 inches from the ceiling, and spray the tiles in an even way with steady movement. Use a small brush and purchase fabric paint in a darker shade and paint between each tile.