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More Alternative Wall Surfaces

Design and Decor, Painting, Interior Published 10/27/2006 by Danny Lipford

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Sometimes homeowners want more than just a plain, painted wall. Adding texture or a decorative finish to your walls is an excellent way to add interest and personality to a room. In the past, many people thought that these designer looks could only be created by a professional. Here are several very DIY friendly approaches that can achieve the same results. Additionally, try the methods in our previous article Alternative Wall Surfaces With Decorative Finishes.

Drywall Joint Compound

Drywall joint compound is commonly used to apply over seams of drywall to create a smooth finish. This same material can be applied in a thick coat (approximately 1/8″) on virtually any wall that allows texturing to be done while the material is still wet.

By using various household items you can create different textures in the wet drywall compound. You can use a small whisk broom to create a texture similar to grass cloth. A comb can be used to create fine vertical or horizontal lines on your wall. You can also create a customized look with a simple window squeegee by cutting notches with scissors every 2- to 3-inches apart. This will create an effect similar to small boards (bead board).

Texture Paint

Texture paint is also available at your local home center that allows you to use a roller to evenly add texture a large area. These types of paint are available in a sand, popcorn or smooth consistency.

Venetian Plaster

Another popular wall finish is Venetian Plaster texture. This texture is made much easier using a tool call the Milano Plaster Tool. This tool enable you to mix a powdered drywall joint compound with a latex paint that when applied creates the slightly textured finish of Venetian Plaster.

Faux Finish

Faux or decorative finishing has been a trend for quite a few years. Finishes such as sponging and ragging are easily accomplished with a unique double roller frame that simultaneously mixes two colors when applied to the wall. Different roller pads allow you to create unique finishes for your home.

Wood Graining

Wood graining is an age-old technique that originally was perfected by old world artisans. The look of wood grain on a wall in any room is attractive to many homeowners. This look can be achieved by applying a base coat of paint to your walls by applying a glaze (commonly used as a cabinet finish). After applying the base coat, the grain look is created by using a wood graining tool. You simply drag the tool through the wet glaze.

All of these finishes require a little bit of practice and some creativity. Try creating these looks on a piece of poster board or the inside of a closet. No one will ever see your creative mishaps!