How to Use Wall Glaze

Paint a base coat of latex in your choice of colors.

A glaze finish on walls adds subtle texture and allows the base coat to show through. To achieve different texture effects, apply the glaze with a brush, sponge, cotton terry fabric or cheesecloth. Subtract glaze, for another effect, by painting the glaze on the wall with a brush and then dabbing a cotton rag over it to remove the glaze. Glazing will create a highly decorative and elegant look for your walls.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton cloth
• Spackle
• Sandpaper
• Painter's tape
• Latex paint
• Paint roller
• Paintbrush
• Cotton rags
• Bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the wall by cleaning dirt, grease and dust off using a wet cotton cloth. Patch holes with Spackle and then sand to a smooth finish with sandpaper.

2. Apply painter's tape around the edge of window frames and door frames to protect the areas from paint and glaze.

3. Paint your base layer of latex paint using a roller. Use a paintbrush to paint corners and edges along the ceiling. Read paint container instructions for drying time and allow time for thorough drying.

4. Dip a cotton rag into the glaze. For an opaque appearance, dip the rag straight into the glaze; for a more transparent appearance, dip the rag in the glaze and then dip it into a bowl of water. Slightly wring out the rag so it is not dripping wet.

5. Dab the glaze onto the wall, working in small sections of the wall at one time. Rotate your wrist so the rag is dabbed in different directions. Dab and rub the glaze to achieve the look you desire. Complete the section to your liking and then continue to dab the next section. Overlap each section to prevent obvious lines from one section to another.

6. Allow to dry thoroughly before moving furnishings back. Check the instructions on the can for estimated drying times.

7. Wash all supplies with soap and warm water.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid painting the base coat in a flat, matte finish. Glazing works better on a base coat with some sheen.

• Practice the technique ahead of time on scrap wood.

• Because glaze dries fast, work in small areas and finish with the dabbing and texture in that area before moving onto the next area.

• Stir your glaze mixture to prevent separation.

• Paint and glaze in a well ventilated area.

• Read labels on the can for specific warnings when using this product.

References

• Your Decorating Hotline: How to Glaze a Wall

Resources

• ArtSparx.com: General Glazing Techniques: Water Based