The brush-blending method is a hands-on way to create a natural, mottled, faux finish using NewLook Translucent Stains. This guide explains the tools, the process, and the key techniques to get a soft, blended look on concrete.

Start With a Sample Board

Always begin with a sample—either on site or on a sample board. This helps you test colors, blending style, and moisture levels before working on the actual surface.
Take notes on what you did so you can repeat the same result on the project.

Choose the Right Base Color

A solid color stain is used as your base.

  • Light base colors create more dramatic and noticeable blends.

  • Dark base colors produce softer, more muted finishes.

In this demonstration, the base already had some mottling, which allowed parts of the base to show through the translucent stains.

Pick Quality Brushes

Use good-quality round brushes that won’t shed bristles.
You’ll need one brush per color.
Label each brush so you don’t mix them up during the process.

Vacuum the brushes before starting to remove loose fibers.

Mix Colors in Small Amounts

Translucent stains go a long way.
Mix small batches so they don’t waste—once mixed, the product has a working time of about 3 hours.
Keep colors stirred so the pigment stays even.

Condition the Brushes

Round brushes need moisture before application.

  • Add moisture until the brush stops absorbing everything.

  • The brush should be damp enough to move stain without leaving heavy marks.

Apply the First Color

Use a regular paintbrush to place a small amount of stain on the surface.
 Then work that stain with your round brush using:

  • Tight circular motions

  • Quick movements

  • Light pressure

Dry the stain out as you work. The goal is a thin, even layer of color.

Add the Second Color

Use a second round brush for the next color.

  • Blend through portions of the first color.

  • Keep a wet edge to avoid hard lines.

  • Allow both colors to flow softly into each other.

Avoid Creating Visible Patterns

Keep the finish organic.

  • Don’t make straight lines.

  • Don’t group big blobs of the same color.

  • Aim for irregular shapes and natural movement.

Someone helping you watch from a distance can point out missed spots or harsh edges before they dry.

Color Limitations

This brush-blending method works best with:

  • Browns

  • Reds

  • Tans

It does not work well with gray tones, which often look dark or “dirty” using this technique. Other application methods are better for gray palettes.

Final Look: Concrete Faux Brush Blending Guide Using NewLook Translucent Stains

When done correctly, you’ll see:

  • Soft transitions

  • Light and dark areas

  • Some base color showing through

This gives the concrete a natural, layered, faux-finished appearance.

For more product information, and tutorial click here.