How to Paint With a Rag Roller

The painting technique known as rag rolling produces a look similar to the exterior of an old stucco or plaster wall. The process requires two coats of contrasting paint, with the second coat applied with a special roller. The process requires more labor than a flat coat of paint, but produces a more distinctive appearance.

Rag roller
Conventional paint roller
Paint glaze
Cotton rags
Paint roller pan

Instructions

- 1
  Apply two coats of a light-colored paint to the walls. Use a roller for more efficient paint applications. Use tape to mask corners and trim that should not be painted. Allow the base coat to dry.
- 2
  Mix the next coat of paint with a glaze or water. Create a color with the mixture you find pleasing. Most painters prepare a top coat that is a darker color than the base coat.
- 3
  Pour the paint and glaze mix into a paint roller pan. Apply the mix to the wall using a rag roller. This type of paint roller includes rags as part of the roller. The roller applies the top coat in a random, splotchy pattern. Apply the roller in random directions.
- 4
  Use a rolled up cotton rag to paint in corners or other areas the paint roller can't reach.
- 5
  Allow the paint to dry according to manufacturer's instructions.

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