To texture drywall, the general process involves preparing the wall, applying a drywall compound, then creating a texture pattern before the compound dries, and finally painting over it once dry. Here are the basic steps for texturing drywall:
- Prepare the walls by cleaning them and applying a drywall primer. Cover floors and furniture to protect from spills.
- Mix drywall joint compound to a thick pancake batter consistency if it’s a dry mix or use ready-to-use compound.
- Apply the joint compound to the drywall surface with a drywall knife or trowel in small sections.
- While the compound is still wet, create your desired texture using various tools:
- Use a sponge, brush, or trowel to create patterns like swirls or stipples.
- Use a roller with thick nap for orange peel texture.
- Use a spray texture gun followed by a knockdown knife for knockdown texture.
- Other common textures include popcorn, sand swirl, orange peel, and knockdown.
- Let the texture dry completely, usually 24 hours.
- Paint the textured wall. Use a thick-nap roller for best results on textured surfaces.
Different textures require specific techniques and tools, for example:
- Orange Peel: Apply texture with a sprayer or roller with a nap, then let it dry.
- Knockdown: Spray texture on, let dry slightly, then flatten the peaks with a knockdown knife.
- Sand Swirl: Use a sponge or brush to create overlapping circular patterns.
- Popcorn: Use a texture hopper sprayer to apply spray-on texture.
The process is beginner-friendly especially with joint compound due to its long drying time, allowing for corrections during application.
If more detailed instructions for a specific texture type or tools used are needed, that can also be provided.
