Frequently Asked Questions

What is Faux Finishing?
Faux means to “fool the eye,” so a faux finish is a technique that fools the onlooker to think they are looking at something else other than what they really are looking at. An example is a wooden column painted to look like marble, or a steel door painted to look like wood. Other samples are Formica countertops painted to look like granite, or walls painted to look like wallpaper. Sample wallpaper techniques can be sponging, ragging, color washing, combing, striping, and many others.

What is Trompe L’oeil?
Trompe L’oeil means to “trick the eye.” It is similar to faux. However, it is used with paintings. The art of Trompe L’oeil painting is to trick the eye into thinking you are seeing a three dimensional design. A sample would be a flat door painted to look like a paneled door.

What is Venetian Plaster?
Real Venetian plaster is a plaster made from crushed limestone. It can be tinted in many colors. It is usually applied in two to three coats in extremely thin layers. If applied in just two layers, then the first layer is usually painted. The last coat is typically buffed to give the highest areas sheen. Each of the layers are tinted a slightly different shade of the same color giving this rich looking technique its variation of colors. It also gives this beautiful technique an old world look. It is found in many fine hotels, exquisite restaurants, and elegant homes. A special wax makes it water resistant while a special soap makes it cleanable. Synthetic varieties are also available to cut the costs.

Does Distinctive Scenes charge for estimates?
No, estimates are FREE!

How many faux finishes does Distinctive Scenes offer?
We offer at least 80 finishes. We lost count! If there is one you want, just ask. If we haven’t heard of it, it is probably because we called it by a different name. We are also keeping up on new techniques.

What is the process of doing business with Distinctive Scenes for faux finishing?
The customer contacts us to make an appointment for a free estimate. We meet with them to inspect the area they want use to faux finish and take measurements. If they don’t know what kind of faux finish they would like, we sit and go through the samples to get ideas. Often they like several. Once a finish or finishes have been chosen, we can do the estimate. We prefer to schedule a follow up appoint within a few days to review the estimate and sample boards, if any are wanted.

What is a sample board?
A sample board is a board done in the faux finish and color the client has chosen. It is recommended each client have these done before the faux finish is done on the walls. This gives the client the opportunity to be sure they will like the way the technique will look in their home before the entire room is done in the finish.

Does Distinctive Scenes charge for sample boards?
Yes. We charge $75 for two samples to cover the cost of materials, paint, and labor. We often do two in the same colors with different techniques. A few techniques are more expensive like Venetian plaster because the materials cost much more.

Do you have to have sample boards done?
No, however, if a sample board isn’t done and you decide you don’t like the finish after we have started the job, or after it is completed; then the customer pays to have it redone, or has to live with that finish until they can afford to have it painted over. That is why it is best to know you will like it beforehand. It is similar to trying out paint colors on different areas of your wall before deciding which one you will choose.

Can you have just an accent wall painted or a small area like a niche done?
Yes, we can do small areas like accent walls and/or niches. It does not have to be an entire room.

What is the process of doing business with Distinctive Scenes if you want a mural?
The customer contacts us to schedule a free consult. We ask the client to prepare by getting some photos of something they like (if they know.) We look at the area where the mural will be and talk about size. We talk about colors and get an idea of the style of the mural. Do they want us to paint a photo of someplace they’ve been? Do they need us to design something? There are many questions to be answered! Bright colors, faded colors, distinct shapes, soft shapes, Trompe L’oeil or not, the choices are almost endless. A follow up appointment is made to deliver the estimate.

I decided I want to hire Distinctive Scenes for my mural, what happens now?
It may take a couple appointments or several before a design can come together. Because of this we have found it necessary to charge for the design appointments. The costs can be avoided or very limited if you know what you want or at least have a good idea ahead of time. Once the design is done, we schedule the mural to be painted. If you want to keep the sample design, you can have it for a fee after the job is complete.

Do I contact Distinctive Scenes if I am working with an interior decorator or designer?
You can contact us for information. Usually in this case you would have your interior decorator or designer contact us if you decide you want our services. We will work with them. They would normally pick out the techniques and colors working with you. Billing policies vary between decorators.

Is Distinctive Scenes insured?
Yes, we are insured.

What is Distinctive Scenes billing policies?
In all cases a portion is due up front and the balance is due upon completion. However, the percentages vary. This is because the lengths of the projects vary in size. It is typically 50% down and balance due upon completion. Many projects are completed in 7 days or less. This policy allows us to get the supplies we need for the projects. Some supplies like Venetian plaster are ordered from Italy!