How to Texture Walls
Texture hides patched drywall and adds character to flat walls. Orange peel, knockdown, and skip trowel are the most common patterns, and they all start with the same prep.
Safety firstTexture sprays everywhere. Mask windows, floors, trim, and ceilings, and wear eye protection and a dust mask.
Video tutorial: How to Make a Faux Concrete Wall
What You'll Need
Joint compound
Hopper gun + compressor (or texture roller)
Mixing paddle
Drywall knife (for knockdown)
Painter's tape and drop cloths
Primer
Step-by-Step
Prep and primePatch any holes, sand smooth, and prime the wall. Texture sticks better to primed drywall than bare paper.
Mask the roomTape plastic to the ceiling, cover the floor, and cover or remove outlet plates. Texture overspray is impossible to wipe off later.
Mix the mudThin all-purpose joint compound with water to about the thickness of pancake batter for spraying, or yogurt for rolling.
Test on cardboardSpray a test panel first. Adjust hopper nozzle, air pressure, and mix until the pattern matches what you want.
Apply the textureSpray or roll the wall in even, overlapping passes. Don't park the gun in one spot — it'll glob.
Knock it down (optional)For a knockdown finish, wait 10–20 minutes until the peaks look slightly glossy, then drag a wide knife lightly across to flatten.
Let it cureLet the texture dry fully (usually overnight). Don't try to paint or touch it before it's hard.
Prime and paintRoll on a coat of primer and then paint. Texture eats paint, so plan on extra material.
If you don't think you can do it, let our experts help.