Faux Plaster Effect With Joint Compound

Properties of Joint Compound

• Drywall dust is another name for joint compound. Mix the compound's powder form with water to create a smooth white mud. Be sure to read the directions on the bag to ensure that you have the proper ratio. This mud should be fairly thick, similar to drywall's base coat, but find a consistency you feel comfortable spreading. The compound may need a day or two to dry once you apply it; the time increases with the thickness of the mud.

Tinting the Compound

• Add either latex paint or food coloring to the wet compound until it is approximately 10 times darker than your desired shade, since it will dry to a shade far lighter than it appears in mud form. This process eliminates the need for an additional wash step, but pay close attention to how much you add. It is better to go slowly when adding color and be sure to note how much you added in case you need to make another batch.

Creating the Surface

• Use a drywall or putty knife to create a relatively smooth surface of mud on the wall. Perfection is irrelevant here because the next step is to create texture. Use any handy implement, such as a sponge or a comb, to create swirls, ridges, peaks or other textures in a simple pattern. Be creative, because no two plaster walls are exactly alike and their uniqueness is part of their appeal.

Washing the Wall

• Once your wall is completely dry, seal it with two coats of sealant and allow the sealant to dry. Use a large brush to apply the color wash; you can also add a second, lighter tone for contrast. Be sure to clean your brush between the two coats. Because your surface is inherently uneven and creates shadows, the wash is remarkably forgiving and imperfections tend to blend in. Washing rather than tinting the compound allows greater artistic freedom.