Walls and Ceilings - Textured walls

I am sorry, I imagine that this has been asked before but I couldn't find the thread. I am doing my kitchen in a Italian theme and am preparing to paint. There was wallpaper above the cupboards and upon removing it, I found that the drywall isn't in very good shape in a few places. I am thinking that instead of trying to repair it or replace the drywall I would be better off doing a textured finish with mud. I also thought that aside from being easier, it would work great with the Italian theme. What is the best, easiest and most asthetically pleasing way to do this? I would like a rough stucco look, nothing to uniform. Thankyou very much for any help and for any direction to helpful threads.

JessP

I am far from an expert on the various methods that are commonly used, although I have texured ceilings to match existing texures when replacing water damaged patches, etc.

One of the easiest methods (after the joints, cracks, etc. are coated) is to use an 8 or 12 inch knife to apply about 3/16" of joint compound over the surface, and then use a 5" knife in either a back and forth "cutting" motion, or a slight semicircular motion (through about 45 degrees). Once the texture is there, you can go over the surface very lightly with an 8 or 12" knife in order to "flatten" the outer peaks and valleys if you choose.

Another similar method is to thin the joint coumpound down to a mayonaise consistancy, and use a 4" or 6" brush to apply a coat onto the surface in a "slapping" random pattern (use the brush to "scoop" it out of the bucket), followed by dragging the wide knife again to smooth the very outer surface.

You can also use a stiff scrub brush to "stipple" parts of the surface after the main texture has been created, or to "soften" areas that may have been "dragged" a little to flat for your desires.

The nice thing about using "regular" mud is that if you mess up, or don't care for the pattern, you can wipe it off with the knife and do it again. As well, you can test a few methods and modify it for the desired look.

Consistancy is key. So whatever you choose, make sure you can "keep the beat" throughout the entire area.

Most of the time I have done it, I have been trying to match an existing pattern, and therefore had to "put my mind" into the character of the person who did it originally. Hence sometimes it takes a couple of tries.

Given that you want the "old world" look, you can use a faux finish paint that will bring out the edges and flats very well.

Always remember what makes up an "expert", an "ex" is a has been, and a "spert" is a drip under pressure... and none of us want to be either of those! So relax and get creative! Joint compound is some very forgiving stuff.

Do remember though, if it is put on too thick, it will create cracks as it dries (kind of like the top of brownies). You probably don't want that. (I would stay under 1/4 or 3/8 inches on the thickness)

On another thread, TheZster said that he has done a good amout of texturing, so maybe he has some other ideas that could help you more than mine. (or maybe PM him if he doesn't get to this thread)

I hope this helps.

To attempt to achieve a "stucco" look - I personally would try a texture roller using thinned out mud. This roller has a plastic mesh type cover that raises and stipples the mud out as it's rolled on - the "roughness" depends on the consistency of the mud. The biggest disadvantage I find with this method is that the "points" that are created tend to dry pretty sharp, creating an uncomfortable to the touch surface. When doing this you have to wait until the mud is almost dry before going over it with a flat blade to knock the tips down. Too soon and you end up with a knockdown finish - too late and you end up with a surface that is sharp to the touch.

Lately I've seen a number of homes with an "italian" accent that used a relatively thick coat of mud on the wall and a 5inch or so knife was used to create "swirls" in the surface. My wife likes it - I don't.

I find that the key is to experiment thoroughly on scrap materials until you achieve the texture you are happy with. Mudslinger has pointed out a number of options that could work also. When experimenting with texture - try a number of different application tools - ie: sponge (natural seasponge is one of my favorites) , brush, rags, various cleaning brushes from your kitchen/bath/garage - different consistencies - and different amounts of pressure. With perserverence, you'll find the one that achieves your goal.

Thank you, that definitely helped. Is there any Don'ts I need to be aware off before I start? Thanks again.

Don't apply a thick coating of mud.... easy does it

Don't rework your mud too much - it just gets worse...

Don't be afraid to screw up - have a drywall blade available to scrape off any screwups - and start again....