Drywall Texture Basics

Basic wall coverings are boring and bland. Drywall textures help create depth and dimension to an otherwise flat wall. They are commonly added into new drywall prices when installing drywall but can be done any time after installation. Whether you hire a drywall installer or do it yourself, you can create a fantastic looking design for just pennies on the dollar. With this guide, you'll be sure to have the best wall coverings for your home and your budget.

Stomp

This easy and creative drywall texture is typically installed on a ceiling, but can be added to any drywall surface. A stomp brush is used to create a circular texture in a swirling pattern. The brush stroke can be left as is to create a thick and defined texture, or knocked flat with a drywall knife to lessen the effect.

To create your own stomp brush effect, you'll need a telescoping pole, a bucket of mixed joint compound and a paint tray. Press the stomper brush into the joint compound and quickly press it into the ceiling or wall and twist to add the swirling effect. You can press one or two areas before reloading the brush. This drywall texture works excellent for covering old popcorn textures.

Knock-Down Lace

The random textures of this drywall pattern are created using an air compressor and hopper gun. The drywall texture mixes joint compound into a bucket, then loads the mixture into the hopper gun. The mix is then atomized and spread in an even pattern along walls or ceilings. A large plastic "flapper" is used to "knock down" the random splatter marks. This texture resembles lace, hence the name Knock-Down Lace".

Creating your own knock-down lace effect can be a little tricky. Fill the hopper with joint compound mixed to the consistency of pancake batter. Then use a scrap piece of drywall as a test sheet. Adjust the nozzle until you get a uniform and consistent spray. Once you're ready to go, you can easily keep mixing joint compound and filling the hopper. A back up helper can really keep things moving and consistent. After a few minutes of dry time on the drywall, the pattern can be knocked down using the large plastic flapper.

Orange Peel

This texture is typically created on wall coverings to minimize the effects of the seams. It is a misted light covering that is created similar to knock-down lace. Instead of creating a thicker mix for the hopper gun, you create a very watery mix of joint compound. The dial on the atomizer is closed tight to create a fine mist that resembles the bumpy texture of an orange peel.