by michael daigle · 9 Jan 2024You've mastered the basics of painting and are ready to take your work to the next level. One of the easiest ways to make a painting more dynamic and visually interesting is by adding texture. Whether you want subtle texture that enhances the overall feel or a more dramatic, tactile texture that becomes a focal point, incorporating different textures into your art is a great way to grow as a painter. In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through different ways to add texture to your paintings using materials you likely already have in your studio. By the end of this, your paintings will have a whole new dimension of depth and your viewers won't be able to resist reaching out to touch the textured details in your latest masterpiece. Ready to get started? Let's dive in!
Why Add Texture to Painted Surfaces?
Texturing your walls adds depth, dimension and visual interest to an otherwise flat surface. There are so many techniques you can try, from subtle swirls to dramatic peaks. Why limit yourself to boring, flat walls when you can create focal points that make a statement?
Try Stenciling
Stenciling is an easy way to add pattern and texture without a huge investment of time or money. You just need a stencil, low-tack painter's tape, and a stencil brush. Press the stencil to the wall and dab on your color. Peel away for an instant transformation. Change the look by using different stencil patterns or alternating colors.
Roll on a Swirl
For soft, undulating texture, try a swirl roller. These rollers have waves, bumps and grooves that transfer a swirled pattern to your walls as you roll on the paint. The effect provides visual depth and richness. Swirl rollers come in a variety of patterns, so you can choose tight spirals or loose, open curls.
Add Dimension with Rag Rolling
Rag rolling involves rolling a bunched-up rag, sponge or cloth over wet paint to create peaks and valleys. Start with a base coat and let it get tacky. Then dip the rag in a contrasting shade and roll, twist and dab until you get the depth of texture you want. The rag soaks up some paint and leaves the rest behind, resulting in a mottled, multi-dimensional finish.
Textured walls create depth and visual drama in any space. With some simple tools and techniques, you can transform boring walls into focal points that make a statement. Why limit yourself to flat when you can have fabulous?
Common Household Items to Create Textured Paint
Adding textures to paint creates depth and visual interest in your walls. With some common household items, you can easily achieve a textured look.
Sand
Fine-grit sand, like play sand, works well for creating a subtle texture. Mix in 1-2 cups of sand for every gallon of paint. The sand will give the paint a slight bumpy, pebbled quality. For a rougher finish, use medium-grit sand. Be sure to wipe walls first to provide “tooth” for the sand to stick to.
Flour or cornstarch
For a soft, matted texture, stir in 1-2 cups of flour or cornstarch per gallon of paint. These additives create a velvety finish. They work best in darker paint shades where the powder won’t show through as much. Wipe walls first and do a test patch, as these can change the paint sheen.
Eggshells
Crushed eggshells create an interesting speckled effect. Rinse and pat dry eggshells, then crush into small fragments. Mix in 1/2-1 cup per gallon of paint. The bumps from the shells will be most pronounced if you apply with a roller. Wipe walls, prime first, and seal the finish with a clear topcoat.
Vermiculite or perlite
For a rough, stucco-like finish, stir in up to 2 cups per gallon of vermiculite or perlite, which are mineral aggregates available at garden supply stores. These are especially effective for creating texture on ceilings or large, open walls. Be very careful applying, as the pieces can scratch skin. Seal the finish with a clear topcoat.
With some experimenting, you'll be creating custom textured looks in no time. Get creative and layer different additives for one-of-a-kind effects. Your textured walls will add warmth, depth and a handcrafted feel to any space.
Tools for Applying Texture to Walls Before Painting
To add texture to your walls before painting, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials.
Paint roller
A paint roller is essential for applying texture to large, open wall areas. Look for a roller cover with a rough, uneven nap to create peaks and valleys. A 1/2-inch nap works well for most texture applications.
Paintbrush
Have a few paintbrushes on hand for cutting in around trim and corners where the roller can’t reach. Angled sash brushes in 1 to 2 inches wide are useful for this.
Texture compound
You’ll need a texture compound, also called wall surfacer or drywall primer. These are gritty paints formulated specifically for adding texture. They contain sand, perlite or vermiculite to create bumpy, uneven surfaces.
Hopper gun or texture sprayer (optional)
For a bumpy, popcorn ceiling-type texture, consider renting a hopper gun or texture sprayer. These spray on texture compound with pressurized air to create a heavy, irregular pattern. Mask off any areas you don’t want textured before spraying.
•Protective gear - Wear old clothes, gloves and eye protection. Texture compound can be messy to work with.
• Drop cloths - Cover floors, trim and any furniture with drop cloths to protect from drips and splatters.
• Sandpaper (optional) - Lightly sand any areas where the texture needs smoothing before painting for the best results.
• Paint - Once the texture has fully dried, you’re ready to apply your topcoats of paint in the color of your choice. Two coats are typically needed for best coverage.
With the right tools and techniques, adding texture to your walls before painting is definitely a DIY-friendly project. Take your time to get the look you want, then sit back and enjoy your newly textured space!
Tips for Painting Over Existing Textured Walls
Painting over existing texture requires some extra prep work, but with a few tips you’ll have your walls smooth and ready for a fresh coat of paint in no time.
Lightly sand rough areas
Use fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit) to lightly sand down any bumps or ridges in the existing texture. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth. This will provide a smooth base for your paint to adhere to.
Apply a primer
For severely textured walls, a coat of primer is a must. Primer helps paint stick to tricky surfaces. Look for a primer specifically meant for textured walls. Apply at least one coat before painting, following the directions on the product.
Use a thicker paint
Thicker paints, like satin or semi-gloss, work better for hiding texture than thinner paints. The heavier body of these paints helps fill in nooks and crannies in textured surfaces. Two coats of paint are typically needed to fully hide texture.
Use a roller
Rollers, instead of brushes, are the best tool for painting textured walls. A high-density roller cover with a thicker nap (3/4-inch or more) works well. Roll in different directions to get into grooves. Apply paint in sections using a roller tray or pan.
Consider skim coating
For heavy textures like popcorn ceilings, it may be best to apply a skim coat of drywall compound to smooth the surface before painting. Skim coating involves applying several thin coats of compound, sanding in between, until you achieve a smooth finish. This does require some DIY experience to do well, so you may want to hire a pro.
With the proper prep and techniques, you can give your textured walls an attractive makeover. Take your time and be patient - the results will be well worth the effort!
Achieving a Smooth Finish When Painting Textured Surfaces
Adding texture to walls before painting is a great way to create visual interest, but it does require some extra work to get an even, professional-looking finish. The key is proper surface preparation and using the right tools and techniques.
Sand rough surfaces
If you’re painting over an existing textured wall surface like concrete, stucco, or brick, sand down any bumps or ridges to provide “tooth” for the new paint to grip onto. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth.
Apply a primer
For the smoothest results, apply at least one coat of primer designed for the specific surface you’re painting. A primer helps seal porous surfaces and provides a uniform base for your topcoats of paint.
Use a brush to cut in edges
When painting trim, windows, doors and edges where walls meet ceilings, use a high-quality angled brush to “cut in” the edges. A brush gives you more control and helps avoid drips and uneven coverage. Roll the remaining large, open wall areas.
Roll in different directions
As you roll on your topcoats of paint, roll in different directions with each coat. For example, roll vertically for the first coat, then horizontally for the second. This helps provide even coverage and avoids the appearance of lap marks.
Apply multiple thin coats
Rather than applying one or two thick coats of paint, opt for three or more thinner coats, waiting for each to dry completely between applications. Thinner coats are easier to control and provide a smoother finish. They’re also less likely to drip or sag.
Lightly sand between coats
For an ultra-smooth finish, lightly sand walls with 220-grit sandpaper between paint coats. Wipe away dust, then apply the next coat. The final coat should go on like glass.
With patience and the proper techniques, you can achieve a perfectly smooth finish when painting over textured surfaces. Take your time and don’t cut corners—the results will show! Your walls will be as smooth as a baby’s bottom.
Faux Finishing Techniques to Mimic Real Texture
Faux finishing techniques allow you to create realistic looking textures without actually changing the surface underneath. These techniques are perfect for beginners and renters who want to add visual interest to their walls. Here are a few easy faux finishing techniques to try:
Sponging
Sponging involves dabbing paint onto a wall with a natural sea sponge to create mottled, irregular patterns. Start with a base coat of paint on your wall. Let it dry completely. Dip a clean sea sponge into a second paint color and dab it onto the wall using light, random motions. The base coat will show through, giving depth and texture. For best results, use complementary colors or different shades of the same color.
Ragging
Ragging uses loose rags, cheesecloth, or burlap to create a distressed, worn look. Apply a coat of paint to your wall and let it partially dry. While it’s still tacky, take your chosen fabric and ball it up, then gently dab and pat the fabric onto the wall using a wadded up motion. The fabric will pick up some of the wet paint, leaving behind a bumpy, woven pattern. For a rustic look, choose warm earthy tones.
Stippling
Stippling uses a stencil brush to create a pattern of dots. Load a stencil brush with paint and hold it at a 90 degree angle to your wall. Tap the bristles with your finger to splatter the paint onto the wall. Aim for evenly dispersed dots. For extra depth, use a darker shade of paint over a lighter base coat. Stippling works well for country cottage decor.
Color Washing
Color washing produces a subtle, hazy effect by diluting paint with water or glaze. Mix one part paint to three parts water or glaze. Apply the diluted paint with a roller, brush or spray bottle. The watery consistency will cause the paint to streak and drip, creating uneven layers of color. For a sun-bleached look, use white or light paints. Multiple washes of different colors can give a dreamy, ethereal quality.
Troubleshooting Common Issues With Textured Paint
Troubleshooting textured paint issues is often a matter of revisiting the basics. Did you thoroughly clean and degloss the surface before painting? Are you using the right tool for the job? Take a step back and evaluate—the solution may be simpler than you think.
Uneven texture
If your texture looks bumpy, streaky, or uneven, you may need to adjust your technique. Load your roller or brush evenly and apply firm, even pressure as you paint. Work in sections using a roller extension pole or ladder to maintain a consistent vantage point. For finer textures, a spray-on texture may yield better results.
Not adhering properly
If the texture isn’t sticking to the surface, the problem typically lies in improper surface preparation. Make sure you clean and lightly sand the area to provide tooth for the new texture to grip onto. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth and apply a primer for the best adhesion. In high-humidity areas like bathrooms, a mold-resistant primer may be needed.
Looks artificial
Texture that looks obviously painted on will ruin the effect. For the most natural appearance, build up thin layers of texture gradually until you achieve adequate coverage and depth. Don’t overwork the area with your tool. A light, random hand will make the texture look more authentic. You can also vary the direction and intensity of your strokes to mimic the randomness of real plaster or stone.
Cracks appearing
Cracks in textured paint usually indicate an underlying issue. Make sure the surface is structurally sound and not flexing or moving, which can cause texture to crack over time. Moisture in the wall can also lead to cracking as it evaporates. Address any moisture or water damage before texturing and priming. In severe cases, you may need to re-drywall and re-texture the area to fix the root cause before repainting.
With some troubleshooting, you can get to the bottom of common textured paint issues. Take notes on what worked for your next project—your skills will build with each application!
Inspiring Examples of Using Texture in a Painted Room
Adding texture to painted walls or furniture is an easy way to create visual interest and depth. Here are some inspiring examples of using texture in a painted space:
Sponge Painting
Applying paint with a natural sponge creates soft, mottled texture. Load the sponge and dab it onto the surface using a stippling motion. Start with a base coat and layer complementary colors for added depth. Sponge painting works well for walls, cabinets and furniture.
Rag Rolling
Rag rolling involves wrapping a rag around a roller and running it over semi-wet paint. The rag absorbs some of the paint, leaving behind a pebbled, rippling effect. Use a heavy nap roller for more pronounced texture. Rag rolling can be done with a single color for subtle texture or multiple colors for a variegated look.
Combing
Dragging a paint comb through wet glaze or paint creates fine striated lines. Load the comb and draw it across the surface using even pressure. Wipe excess paint from the comb between strokes. Combing works best on smooth surfaces like walls, doors and cabinets. For a geometric pattern, consider combing in different directions.
Stippling
Stippling involves dabbing wet paint onto a surface with a stencil brush to create thousands of tiny dots. Load the stencil brush and tap it up and down onto the surface using a light, quick motion. Build up layers for more coverage, wiping excess paint from the brush as needed. Stippling can be used to create an overall mottled effect or used with stencils for pattern and detail.
Experimenting with different tools, techniques and color combinations is the best way to find a texture you love. Start with a small area to practice your technique before moving on to entire walls or large furniture pieces. Adding texture is an easy way to transform the look and feel of any painted space.
Painting Textures and Surfaces FAQ
Painting Textured Walls
Painting walls with texture requires some extra preparation and technique. The texture provides more surface area for the paint to adhere to, so you’ll want to apply a primer first. A primer helps the topcoat of paint bond securely to the wall. For heavy textures like concrete block or stucco, use a high-build primer. For slight textures like orange peel or knockdown, a standard primer will work fine.
Brush Types
Choose a brush suited for the texture you’re painting. For slight textures, use a nylon or polyester brush. For heavier textures, use a brush with stiffer bristles, like a masonry brush. Rollers can also work well for large, flat areas. Consider a roller with a thicker nap for textured walls.
Application Technique
Apply the primer and paint using a “stippling” motion, dabbing the bristles onto the surface rather than brushing smoothly. This helps the paint get into all the nooks and crannies of the texture. Work the paint into the surface using multiple coats, letting each coat dry as directed before applying the next. For the final coat, you may need to brush at an angle to the texture to provide full coverage.
How Much Paint Do I Need?
Textured walls require more paint than smooth walls. The texture provides more surface area, so the paint has to cover more area. For heavy textures like concrete block, you can expect to use 50-100% more paint than for smooth walls. For slight textures like knockdown, you may need 25-50% more paint. Buy enough for two coats minimum, and consider an extra gallon in case you need touch-ups.
Tips for Painting Textures
•Clean the walls thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris before priming.
•Apply at least two topcoats of paint for best results, waiting for each coat to dry as directed.
•Use a flashlight or spotlight to check for any spots you may have missed. Texture can hide imperfections!
•Consider a paint with a satin or semi-gloss sheen. Higher sheens are more durable and easier to clean.
•Protect textured walls in high-traffic areas with a clear topcoat sealer. This helps prevent damage to the texture and makes the walls easier to wipe down.
Final Thoughts
So you've got the basics down and your creative juices are flowing. Now go forth and experiment! Add sand, sawdust, or drywall compound for gritty textures. Try string, twine, or cheesecloth for a woven effect. Get messy with plaster, clay, or caulk for bumpy, dimensional textures. The possibilities are endless. Play around, see what you like, and make it your own. Painting should be fun, so don't be afraid to just dive in and try new things. You've got this! Now go pick up a brush and create some texture magic. Let your inner artist out and happy painting!