Faux Finishes
Various types of faux finishes may be applied to our mantels to achieve a patina of age. We recommend the use of a penetrating stain made by Benjamin Moore Paint Co. We have the color formulas for both our buff and cream colors. Using this base, the paint store can easily add various colors to achieve the effect that you desire. Application is very simple. Working in only small areas at a time the stain should be applied with a soft cotton cloth and immediately wiped off. The process may be repeated to get darker colors and a more mottled effect. Another way to age a mantel is known as "distressing". This is nothing more than beating and chipping the stone before applying the penetrating stain. Bicycle or motorcycle chains work well for distressing.

You should thoroughly clean (acid wash) your mantel and allow to dry before deciding to do a faux finish. It may be too beautiful to touch.