How to Create Textured Accent Walls

TEXTURE is the difference between a room that feels like a box and a room that feels like a sanctuary. By adding physical depth to a single accent wall, you draw the eye immediately, creating a high-end, custom look without the expense of expensive wall coverings or specialized wood paneling. Getting this right is all about consistency and patience. Whether you want the subtle look of old-world plaster or a modern, rhythmic pattern, the secret lies in how you manipulate the material while it is still wet. A well-done textured wall acts as a permanent piece of art, changing character as the light shifts across the room throughout the day.

  1. Protect Surrounding Surfaces. Remove all outlet covers and switch plates, then use high-quality painter's tape to mask off adjacent walls, the ceiling, and the baseboards. Lay down heavy-duty drop cloths to protect the flooring from splatters.
  2. Bond Primer to Drywall. Apply a coat of high-quality bonding primer to ensure the textured material adheres properly to the drywall. Let it dry completely according to the manufacturer's time guidelines.
  3. Mix to Frosting Consistency. If using joint compound for texture, thin it slightly with water until it reaches the consistency of cake frosting. Mix it thoroughly in a five-gallon bucket using a paddle attachment on your drill.
  4. Spread Compound Evenly. Using a wide-nap roller or a large trowel, apply the compound to the wall in vertical sections. Work in manageable three-foot wide strips so the material does not dry out before you have a chance to texture it.
  5. Pattern the Texture Now. Once the compound is applied, go back over the surface with a skip-trowel, a notched spreader, or a thick-nap roller to create your desired pattern. Use consistent wrist movements to keep the texture uniform across the entire wall.
  6. Smooth Sharp Peaks. After the compound has cured for 24 hours, use a fine-grit sanding sponge to lightly knock down any sharp or overly aggressive peaks. Wipe the wall clean with a damp microfiber cloth to remove all dust.
  7. Paint for Full Coverage. Apply a flat or eggshell finish paint using a high-nap roller to ensure the paint reaches deep into the texture. A second coat is usually necessary to achieve an even, professional finish.