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        How To Create Faux Leather Using Kraft Paper

        Layers of ordinary brown kraft paper, covered by a polyurethane glaze, give a warm, rich texture reminiscent of leather.
        • Time

          Two Days

        • Price Range

          $100 - $250

        • Difficulty

          Easy to Moderate

        In this Project you will:

        Step 1: Apply Adhesive to the Walls

        Using a paste-brush, apply a base of wallpaper adhesive to an area of the wall about 2 feet square. (It's best to work on one small area at a time to avoid the adhesive drying too quickly.) Wear rubber gloves to protect skin from the adhesive.

        Step 2: Adhere Paper to the Walls

        Lay torn pieces of paper in a random mosaic pattern, piecing them together like a puzzle to cover most of the surface. Select bigger pieces to form a bottom layer. With most of the area covered, add more adhesive over the bottom layer, then add more pieces of paper.

        Step 3: Smooth Out the Wrinkles

        Using a plastic smoother, eliminate wrinkles and make sure that the edges and corners are all adhered and flat. Continue adding layers of paper until the wall surface is completely concealed.

        Step 4: Add the Polyurethane Glaze

        Once the entire wall is covered, prepare a glaze by mixing a small amount of brown acrylic paint into a can of polyurethane finish. Make certain that the ingredients are mixed thoroughly. Apply a thick coat of the polyurethane glaze over the wallcovering.

        The variation in shades resulting from the layering of paper makes for a nice patina effect. This finish is well suited for a room that utilizes warm, rich earth tones.

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