Things You'll Need
Sanding pad, fine-grit
Tack cloth
Interior paint, light color for base
Paintbrush
Interior paint, dark color for grain
Cheesecloth
Wood grain tool
![...](https://img.ehowcdn.com/375/clsd/getty/cache.gettyimages.com/52312c9d982a4853bcfac3063275630a.jpg)
Take advantage of the ceiling beams in your room by making them a focal point. Make your painted beams look like wood using a faux finishing technique. Wood beams can add warmth to a room and accent the architectural features of the room. A wood grain tool allows you to paint a wood grain on your beams to simulate the look of the wood. Select a lighter color for the base color of the beams and apply a darker color for the wood grain to create the natural appearance of wood on your beams.
Step 1
Sand the painted beams lightly with a fine-grit sanding pad to remove the sheen. This enables the paint to adhere to the surface. Wipe off any dust left from sanding with a tack cloth.
Video of the Day
Step 2
Apply an even coat of the light color of interior paint to the beams using a paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours.
Step 3
Brush on a coat of the dark color paint over each of the beams with a paintbrush. Wipe the surface of the beams from one end to the other with a cheesecloth to streak the paint.
Step 4
Rock a wood grain tool across the surface of each beam from one end to the other to make the wood grain onto the beams. Do this slowly and with purpose.
Step 5
Allow to dry for 24 hours.
Tip
You can simulate the look of any wood. Experiment with different colors on a scrap board until you have found the best combination to complement your room.
Warning
Wear eye and face protection when sanding wood. Apply paint in a well-ventilated room.
Video of the Day