Unusual techniques to try with paint

Paint is an inexpensive way to add color and personality to your walls. Some techniques can create a striking appearance or a visual illusion.

Derision

When you want a final effect that involves a variation of colors, rag can be an effective technique to try. This process is also inexpensive; all you need is a drop cloth, tape, tray, and roller. Of course, you will also need a lint-free cloth or gauze. The surface will require a standard matte finish as a base, a second matte color, and a latex glaze. Depending on the desired result, you can use a lighter base color and a darker polish or vice versa.

After applying the base color to the wall, allow it to dry completely. Prepare the mix for the next coat by mixing a gallon of enamel with a quarter of the second matte paint. Dampen the cloth slightly, then roll the cloth into a loose ball in your hand and dip it into the mixture. Rub the rag on the wall at random to start adding color. You can add as much as you want. Continue reloading the rag with more paint until you have covered the entire wall. Go back to assess the entire wall and make sure you’ve applied the polish evenly.

Dry brushing

Dry brushing is another simple technique that can provide extraordinary results. For this technique, you will need; three 2.5-inch brushes, a base coat, and three complementary shades.

Apply base coat to wall and allow to dry. Choose a complementary shade and load the tip of a brush. Make a 30 cm long stroke on the wall at a 45 degree angle. Make a second stroke of the same length, this time at the opposite 45-degree angle to crisscross the strokes. This process will create a herringbone pattern. Continue stroking the paint in this pattern while working in small sections at a time. Repeat the same process using the other two shades to finish.

Sponge

This method is an easy way to create a motley look on a wall. You will need the standard supplies as well as a base color, a complementary color, polish, thinner, and a meerschaum sponge.

Prepare the surface the same way you would dry scraping or brushing. Combine the complementary shade, nail polish and thinner. Use a roller to apply this mixture to the wall. Use the damp sponge to remove some of the polish from the surface while the paint is still fresh. Continue working in small sections, applying the polish with the roller and cleaning a part with the sponge. Periodically step back to make sure you are creating a uniform look.