If you want to add visual interest and depth to a room, as well as make it feel cozier and inviting, adding texture on your surfaces is a great way to do it. In interior design, textured surfaces refer to the various ways in which surfaces can be made to have a visual or tactile texture. Create Visual Interest with These Painting Techniques.
Since texture makes it harder to achieve an even and consistent finish, painting textured surfaces can be more challenging than painting smooth surfaces.
But with the right painting materials and different painting techniques, you can paint textured surfaces on your own.
In this ultimate painting guide, I will discuss everything you need to know to create beautiful painted textured surfaces for your rooms. Are you ready? Let’s get started!
Most Common Textured Surfaces and How to Paint Them
Stucco
This is a rough, plaster-like texture that is often used on walls and ceilings. It is created by applying multiple layers of a stucco mix and then troweling it to create a pattern.
To paint stucco textured surfaces, you will need these painting materials:
- Masonry primer
- Exterior paint
- Stiff-bristled brush
- Roller with 1-inch nap
- Paint sprayer
Painting Techniques for Stucco Surfaces
For stucco surfaces, I recommend using elastomeric paint as it can stretch and contract with the surface, allowing it to withstand the effects of weather and prevent cracking. Here are the different painting techniques you can do for painting stucco surfaces:
Rolling
Use a paint roller to apply paint to the stucco surface, working in small sections and using a back-and-forth motion to ensure even coverage.
Spraying
A paint sprayer can be used for larger stucco surfaces, as it allows for quick and even application. Be sure to use a sprayer with a wide nozzle to avoid clogging.
Brushing
For smaller areas or details, a paintbrush can be used to apply paint to the stucco surface, using a dabbing or stippling motion to create texture.
Plaster
This is a smooth or lightly textured surface that is created by applying plaster to a wall or ceiling. It can be left as is or painted over to create a variety of finishes.
These are the painting materials you will need to paint plaster textured surfaces: Create Visual Interest with These Painting Techniques:
- Plaster sealer
- Stiff-bristled brush
- Roller with a 3/4-inch nap
- Paint sprayer
Painting Techniques for Plaster Surfaces
For plaster surfaces, I recommend using high-quality acrylic latex paint, which is durable and has good adhesion to the surface. Also, You can try any of these painting techniques:
Ragging
For this technique, you will need an old rag bunched up to create the effect. Besides, Dip the cloth in paint and gently press it onto the surface in a random pattern. Also, This is perfect for creating a subtle, mottled effect on plaster surfaces.
Stippling
This technique uses a stippling brush to create a raised, textured pattern on the surface. Besides,The surface is painted with tiny dots or stippling marks to give the plaster surface a more noticeable texture.
Sponging
This technique involves dipping a sponge in paint and then lightly pressing it onto the surface in a random pattern. This technique is great for creating a more organic, irregular texture on the plaster surface.
Brick
This is a rough, natural texture that is often used on walls and fireplaces. It can be created by using real bricks or by applying a faux brick finish using paint.
To paint brick surfaces, you need these painting materials (1):
- Masonry cleaner
- Masonry sealer
- Paint scraper
- Wire brush
- Stiff-bristled brush
- Roller with 1-inch nap
- Paint sprayer
Painting Techniques for Brick Surfaces
For brick surfaces, I recommend using breathable masonry paint that can withstand the elements. Acrylic latex paint is also a good choice, as it allows the brick to breathe and won’t trap moisture. Here are different painting techniques (8) you can try:
Color Washing
This texturing technique is done by diluting the paint with water and brushing it in a very thin coat to create a translucent, textured effect.
Dry Brushing
This painting technique involves using a nearly-dry brush to lightly skim over the surface, creating a soft, rustic look.
Stencil Painting
This technique involves using a stencil to create a repeating pattern on the surface, adding visual interest to the brick texture.
Stone
This is a natural, rough texture that is often used on walls and floors. It can be created by using real stone or by applying a faux stone finish using paint or wallpaper.
For stone surfaces, you need these painting materials: Create Visual Interest with These Painting Techniques:
- Stone sealer
- Exterior paint
- Paint scraper
- Wire brush
- Stiff-bristled brush
- Roller with 1-inch nap
- Paint sprayer
Painting Techniques for Stone Surfaces
For stone surfaces, I recommend choosing a paint that can withstand the texture and porous nature of the material. Acrylic latex paint is a great option for this as it offers durability and flexibility while also allowing the stone to breathe.
This technique is often called veining and it involves using a small brush to paint thin, irregular lines in a contrasting color over the stone surface to mimic the natural veins found in some types of stone. You can also use the same painting techniques for brick surfaces.
Wood
This is a warm, natural texture that is often used on floors, walls, and ceilings. Besides, It can be created by using real wood or by applying a faux wood finish using paint or wallpaper.
These are the painting materials you need for wood surfaces: Create Visual Interest with These Painting Techniques:
- Sandpaper (medium-grit and fine-grit)
- Primer
- Paint brushes
- Paint rollers
- Paint tray
- Paint (acrylic or latex-based)
Painting Techniques for Wood Surfaces
For wood surfaces, I recommend using acrylic or latex paint since they are durable and can adhere well to the wood’s natural texture. Also, as for painting techniques, you can try any of these:
Distressing
This technique involves using sandpaper or a scraper to intentionally create a weathered look on the wood surface.
Staining
This involves applying a thin layer of stain to enhance the wood grain and natural texture.
Conclusion
There you have it, the most common textured surfaces and the different painting techniques you can use for each of them. Don’t forget to coat a finish to help protect them from wear and tear. Generally, semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are the most durable paint finish and are easier to clean for textured surfaces.
By choosing the right paint, employing different techniques, and using durable paint finish, you can surely achieve professional-looking results. SO, Create Visual Interest with These Painting Techniques.
