How to Apply Skip Trowel Finish
Skip trowel finish adds character to a home. The technique is commonly used on top of drywall, though it can also be applied to ceilings. Joint compound is applied to the wall with a trowel in a random fashion, using short strokes so that some areas of the wall are left slightly thinner than others. The resulting dips and curves in the compound create interesting patterns that are both visually appealing and good at hiding imperfections. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Wipe down the wall with a damp cloth to remove any dust and dirt from the surface. Lay down a drop cloth on the floor beneath the area where you will be working to catch any falling compound.
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Mix joint compound and water in a 5-gallon bucket. Start with compound and slowly mix in water until it reaches the consistency of thick paint. For a slightly thicker texture, add less water. Be careful not to make it so thick that it will not spread properly. Don't mix all the compound at once, as it tends to dry quickly and will go to waste if it doesn't make it to the wall in time.
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Scoop compound onto the widest edge of the trowel. Work from the bottom of the wall to the top, holding the trowel at a 15 degree angle and making short, arching motions. Bend your wrist quickly away from the wall as you remove the trowel to create a "skip" at the end of each stroke.
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Allow the joint compound to dry for 10 to 20 minutes.
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Examine the wall and knock off compound that is dripping from the wall due to its thickness. Allow at least 24 hours to pass before you paint the wall.
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References
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