How to Texture Drywall

Many homeowners enjoy making their own unique and creative improvements to their home. Texturing drywall is a popular decorating choice that adds character and charm to your walls and ceiling. “Texturing” is often done to add a unique fashion design, muffle external noises, or to cover scratches and marks on the wall or ceiling. When you understand the basic steps to texturing drywall, it can be quite an easy and inexpensive project.

The following lists the steps required to texture drywall:

1. The first step is to acquire the texture materials and prepare the room. You need to have a big bucket of premixed drywall joint compound, stencils, wide-bladed taping knife, soft-bristled brush, and plastic sheeting. Once you have the materials, you need to clear the room of such items as any appliances, furniture, wall decorations…etc. Anything you cannot remove, cover with plastic sheeting or old sheets. As well, you have to remove any wall paper.

2. The next step is to take your taping knife and dunk it in the bucket of drywall compound. Begin by spreading the material around key areas such as baseboards and corners. Once you have spread the compound on the small and awkward areas, you can start to add a coat of the compound on the walls. The thickness will vary according to personal preference. Thicker spreading will allow for a rougher texture. Most experts recommend approximately 1/8th inch thickness if one does not want the wall or ceiling too thick.

3. It is important not slap on large amounts of compound. You should spread and smooth slow and even until you get use to the process. Drywall compound stays a manageable consistency so you do not have to hurry. Results will be better if you spread the material in small areas. As well, switch between applying the compound and texturing it until the entire wall is covered.

4. The next step is to create the designs. The thought behind texturing drywall is to create random designs. You can use different types of texture tools such as sponges, wallpaper brushes, or a paintbrush. Stencils are used to add pre-made designs. You can also use your fingers to make the designs. Popular designs include popcorn, skiptrowel which resembles Spanish style stucco, and splatter which are small splotches that resemble the orange peel. Paintbrushes can be used to spread the compound in circular patterns, up and down, and side to side. Sponges can be used to make innovative designs.

It is important to be aware that drywall compound will dry into white and brittle material, so you should not rub anything against it. Once the drywall completely dries, you can then paint it the color of your choice. If you are unsure about any step in the process, you can always talk to a representative at a home improvement store. Adding texture and unique designs to your walls can be a rewarding and fun project. Once complete, you can stand back and enjoy your creative work that will be the envy of your friends and neighbors.