Dragging Techniques for Ceiling Paint

Dragging

• Dragging is a relatively basic faux technique that even the novice home decorator can try. As a subtractive method, dragging involves the use of a base color coat covered with a decorative glaze that is partially brushed off. The end result is the creation of lines, brush strokes, patterns and other various markings that show through the paint. Choose a tone-on-tone combination of similar colors for the base and topcoat glaze mixture, or create a dramatic contrast with light and dark hues. While dragging may be traditionally viewed as a wall process, using this technique on your ceiling is a viable option that will add interest to your overall room aesthetic.

Preparation

• Before beginning your dragging process, it is crucial to prepare the ceiling as well as the entire room. Dragging an entire room may overpower the space with color or pattern-like texture. In the case that you feel a wall and ceiling faux finish makes the room too busy, only drag the ceiling. You will need to thoroughly clean and dry the ceiling, using a mild soap and warm water. Mask off the wall/ceiling joints with painter’s tape to keep the color only in one space. Painting a ceiling will be quite messy and filled with drips. Remove all furniture from the room, and cover the floors with a tarp.

Tools and Materials

• Aside from the painter’s tape and tarp that you will need for your room preparation, you will also need painting and dragging tools, as well as the paint/glaze itself. Choose an interior latex color in a shade that meets your decorating needs for the base and topcoat. You will need a paint roller with a long or scoping handle to reach the ceiling for application. You will also need a faux dragging glaze. Depending on the height of your ceiling, you will need a ladder to reach your painting space. For the dragging process itself, you will need a wide paintbrush and rag for cleaning the brush in between strokes. Some manufacturers make specialized dragging tools for a linen-style finish.

The Process

• Start the process by applying a fresh base coat. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for recoat and drying times. To create the dragged effect, there are two primary methods for the faux finish itself. Choose to mix your own dragging medium by combining one part latex interior paint to three parts latex glaze. Paint on your mixture, and immediately drag off some of the paint with your brush or tool. Once the glaze dries, you will not be able to drag. Another option is to apply a second topcoat over the base. Cover with the glaze before the topcoat dries, and drag off some of the color. For a straight-lined look, drag the brush from one side of the ceiling to the other without varying directions. If you are working on a ladder, it may be best to create small patches of texture instead of lengthy streaks.