Does anyone know about rag painting techniques? PLEASE look at this pic: http://www.pbase.com/giancarlo......

Question

I'd like to paint a wall to look just like the wall in this picture but could use some assistance from someone with experience. I think ragging would be the only way to achieve this look but I have never done it and don't want it to end up looking tacky.

Answer 1

First paint your basecoat color, in this case it appears to be burnt sienna.  Then you will need glaze that is burnt umber.  You can make it yourself and it is cheaper than purchasing commercial formulations.  The basic formula is 1/3 acyrlic or latex paint (in the burnt umber), 1/3 floetrol (a paint extender that gives you more manipulation time and is found in home improvement stores on the stain/paint aisle) and approximately 1/3 water (sometimes less you don't want it too watery).

You will need a plate, 2 damp lint free rags(ole T-shirts work best) a bucket of water, a stack of newspaper and I like to have an artist's brush handy that is about 1/2 wide (to get into corners and at the ceiling).  Pour your glaze on the plate, dip one of the dap rags all balled up onto the paint, blot it off on the newspaper and start stamping the wall.  Work in small areas like 4 x 4, use the other damp rag with no paint on it to blot and pull off paint and blend the paint so that there is not obvious pattern.  Step back from your work occasionally to make certain you have the effect you desire.  Use the paintbrush dipped in the paint and blotted to force paint into the corners and where the ceiling meets the wall and then use the damp rag with no paint to pull it off in sections so you don't get an obvious line.  Use the bucket of water to rinse the rag from time to time so it doesn't get too loaded with glaze.  This will give you the appearance of aged stucco like was shown in the picture.

Answer 2

Looks like you get 2-3 other shades close to your original and randomly put them on before and after your main coat.