The Resurgence of Decorative Effects

Decorative Effects – they’re back

There has been a clear indication in the world of trade painting and decorating, that Decorative Effects are on the rise once again, and Polyvine are here for it.

While some might argue that the idea of decorative effects never went away, with plenty of skilled decorators like Barrington Decorators and Hugh Irwin Specialist Decorators applying these effects to trade jobs every day, it was certainly obvious that the trend faded along with stencilling and Laura Ashley curtains towards the end of the nineties,/early naughties.

It was all about Changing Rooms back then…

Back in the 90s, the long haired, flared shirt wearing Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen was a huge fan of decorative effects, and the Polyvine range were his products of choice, often being featured on the show.  So maybe the resurgence of the Tropical Scumble on the more recent series of the programme marked a clear indicator that this trend was on the up.

So, what are Decorative Effects?

Decorative Effects are simply products that allow you to apply a certain effect onto a substrate to create something more unusual and unique, and there are a number of methods and products you can use to achieve these different looks.  Ragging, Dragging, Sponging, Marbling, Stippling, Trompe-l’oeil and Wood Graining are all different types of effect, and Polyvine have a range of products that can help you achieve these looks.

Who says it’s back?

Well, Laurence for one!  Only joking, but we’re sure he never stopped using them!  There is an obvious rise of decorative trade jobs being shown on social media, as well as a number of articles being circulated about this trend, and just like the takeover of Chalk Paint in the 2010s, we imagine it will appeal to many discerning DIYers as well!

What products should I use?

Great question…and clearly the reason for this article!  Polyvine have a fantastic range of decorative effects products that have proven their worth in the industry for nearly 30 years.  Original skilled artists like Keith Warwick (RIP) and Chris Moon advocated for these products and used them on their work and as ambassadors for Polyvine.  Choose from our range of Scumbles, Glass Frosting, Craquelure, Crackle Glaze, Colourants and of course the tools you need to do the job.

Where can I learn these decorative techniques?

To apply decorative effects well, and achieve realistic results, you need to really get used to using the products and practice!  It is highly skilled and we know how much work goes into mastering this technique.  Fortunately, there are people out there who can help!  Why not contact Dulux Academy, who have a range of decorative effects courses and use the Polyvine range to teach the technique.

To find out more, explore the range on our website, and familiarise yourself with what these decorative effects can do by watching our videos over on YouTube.

Find a stockist

Polyvine products are stocked at all good decorators’ merchants across the UK. Search our directory to find your nearest stockist.

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sales@polyvine.co.uk +44 (0)1934 740305