Paint a textured wall

1. Special attention:

Choose the right kind of paint. A semi-gloss paint gives better coverage as does not get absorbed easily as compared to flat paint. Semi-gloss finish is also easier to clean.

2. Protect:

Starters must test colours by painting a patch on the wall and observe in different lights to get an idea of the final look. Tape off any surface you want to protect. Save your floor area with a drop cloth. Keep a ladder handy to reach hard places.

3. Right tool:

Buy a regular paint blust to cut into the edges of the texture, wiggle to get into all the nook and crannies.

4. Know the technique:

Use a wall brush in an X pattern or diagonal back and forth motion over the surface to give great coverage. Diagonal strokes get into the crevices and create a random pattern that will better hide the brush stokes. You can also use a roller but they aren’t the best option for a textured wall.

5. Show patience:

Wait for the paint to dry and then look from a distance for areas that are thin or have been missed completely. Apply a second coat here.

First Published: Jul 23, 2010 16:53 IST