How do I faux paint anaglypta wallpaper?

Anaglypta wallpaper has a variety of classical and traditional embossed designs on the surface. The material is applied similar to regular, smooth wallpaper---however; paint and faux finish techniques can transform the surface. Adding the paper to tray ceilings, accents walls or entire rooms adds texture and warmth to a room's walls or ceilings. Faux finished anaglypta can often mimic antique ceiling tins or carved stone.

Paint the anaglypta with dark black or brown latex paint when attempting a metallic tin look. Consider bronze or copper for an antique vintage look; however, metallic paints come in hundreds of colours from purple to red. Randomly roll the paint onto the surface using an organic, uneven pattern rather than horizontal or vertical stripes. Use an old paint brush to stipple the paint in hard-to-reach areas or crevices. Stain the wallpaper using a dark brown or black glaze. Create the glaze by mixing one part paint to four parts glaze. Rub onto the surface with a terry towel. Allow the glaze to fall into the crevice and cracks of the wallpaper. Different glazes and background combinations will create different looks. Experiment with different colours on a sample board prior to painting the actual surface.

Create the look of a hidden stone carved wall with anaglypta paper. Add large sections of trowelled on joint compound over the installed paper. Consider large organic sections similar to continent shapes with sections of the anaglypta peeking through. Apply the texture in a rough, organic form. Rub a stain onto the surface of the wall for an allover stained look. Use the above glaze recipe combining glaze and paint. Wipe the stain using a terry towel and a light circular motion. Rub on as much or as little of the stain as possible.

Anaglypta can resemble embossed leather when first base coated a deep, rich red or brow. Experiment with different shades of colour for different looks. Glaze the surface of the paper using dark brown or black glaze mixture. Lightly roll on the glaze and dab with a clean towel.