How to Use a Glazing Skip Trowel

Skip troweling is a texturing technique used on ceilings and walls. It is done by applying drywall or joint compound with a large flat trowel, then lightly scraping the compound. After applying the texture, the surfaces are typically glazed to create an old-world antique feel. This glaze is usually combined with a brown or yellow paint to add a sense of age and discoloration to the faux finish. The technique removes some of the glaze while it's still wet in order to create a random pattern of color and texture on the surface.

10-inch flat trowel
Pan
Dry wall compound, mixed to a thin batter consistency
Glaze
Paint
Paintbrush
Rags

Instructions

Applying Texture
- 1
  Pour your dry wall compound into the pan, and dip the trowel in the compound. Hold the trowel parallel to the wall, and apply the compound to the wall in diagonals. Use a light touch and do not press when adding the compound to the wall.
- 2
  Allow the compound to sit until it begins to dry at the edges.
- 3
  Scrape the clean trowel over the texture in a random pattern. Be careful not to leave marks with your blade. Allow to dry for 24 hours before glazing.
Applying Glaze
- 4
  Mix four parts glaze to one part paint. Any color can be used, but brown and yellow are the most common for this technique.
- 5
  Dip a paint brush in the glaze and stipple it randomly on to the wall. Hold brush in one hand and a rag in the other. Apply the glaze with the brush and immediately blot it off with the rag.
- 6
  Allow to dry overnight before touching.

How to Make Your Own Crackle Lacquer

Project Ideas on Fascia

Faux Finishing

How to Use a Glazing Skip Trowel

Instructions

Applying Texture

Applying Glaze