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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.

        More in Decorating

        create faux leather using kraft paper
        • Time

          Two Days

        • Price Range

          $100 - $250

        • Difficulty

          Easy to Moderate

        Highlights:

        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.

        eliminate wrinkles with plastic smoother

        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.

        add polyurethane glaze to wallcovering

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