Patching and Plastering - matching texture after re-taping and bedding

Our house is nearly 40 years old and some of the taping and bedding is coming loose (I hope this is somewhat normal). We need to repair/replace that (easy, hubby can do that). The problem is that our walls and ceiling are textured (they both have the same texture). The easiest way to describe the texture is that it looks like paint splatters. Once we redo all the taping and bedding, how in the world are we supposed to be able to match the texturing without redoing the whole house? I've heard you can buy texture at your local Home Depot, but is it really that easy?? Do they sell the 'pattern' or do you have to figure out how to create the pattern? :confused:

First the repairs must be finished [tape & bed + 2 coats]
Sounds like you have a splatter coat finish. I never use the rattle cans of texture but think they just come in popcorn and orange peel. Originally your texture was sprayed on with a hooper gun which is air powered [you might can rent one]

Texture can be made by thinning down joint compound to a paint like consitency, thinner = lighter texture. If the splatters are small you may be able to use a sponge to apply the texture, large splatters might be achieved by throwing [with brush tips] mud at the wall. It may take some practice to get it right. If you don't like your texture job you can either scrape it off while wet or sand when dry.

Thanks for your help...I'll have to practice 'doing' the texture before I attempt making it 'permanent' on the walls/ceiling.

I know this is a DIY website, but you might want to consider having the texture done by a professional.

Just keep practicing and trying different techniques util you get it pretty close & then go for it, just kind of blend it in with the existing and probably no one but you will ever notice the repair. It's not rocket science, just takes time & patience. Good luck.