Wall Texturing or Plastering Tutorials
Plain drywall can support nearly any type of decorative statement, but a simple paint job is often not enough to satisfy the aesthetic desires of homeowners. With a simple plaster mixture and some careful tool work, you can create an intricate texture over the drywall that will make guests and family want to reach out and touch the fruits of your creative labors. Does this Spark an idea?
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Mixing the Plaster
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When plaster compound is applied to walls to fix scratches or dents, the material is often thick, similar to very thick peanut butter. However, for texturing, you want a thinner application so you can tool it to create the shapes and feel that you want. Start with the amount of water recommended by the plaster's instructions and mix well in a bucket with a paddle mixer. Slowly add water and continue to mix until you achieve a consistency similar to a milkshake or a thin pancake batter: pliable and spreadable, but not so thin that it will drip from the walls.
Peak Texturing
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Cover the floor and surrounding fixtures with drop cloths to avoid getting plaster everywhere. Once the plaster is thinned to the proper consistency, roll it onto the wall with a large nap roller. If you roll slowly, you will be able to create peaks in the compound as it adheres to the wall. As you apply the plaster, work only in small areas, up the height of the wall but only 3 to 4 feet wide. This will ensure that you can perform the texturing before the compound dries and becomes unworkable. When it dries you will have a peaking texture on the walls.
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Knockdown Texture
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For a knockdown texture, use a knockdown tool, sold in hardware and home improvement stores. Instead of rolling the plaster onto the surface, dip the knockdown tool in the thinned plaster and smack it against the wall; be careful, it will splash. The tool will leave different shapes across the wall and will also create peaks similar to those created by the roller. Once you apply plaster to one area, take a putty knife and knock down some of the peaks sporadically to create a random feel to the texture. Play around with the tool and the knife until you achieve the desired texture.
Crow's Foot Texture
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Crow's foot texture, also called the slap brush texture, uses a specialized paint brush known as a crow's foot brush or a slap brush. The brush features long, thin nylon hairs. Dampen the brush in your thinned plaster and smack it up against the wall. The hairs will splay out, creating small lines in the texture similar to a crow's footprints. Smack the brush randomly across the surface for the appropriate texture effect. You can also twirl the brush slightly as you go for a spread-out, swirling effect.
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