How to Create Different Paint Effects on Walls

Create a stamped wall. Start with a painted wall. Choose the stamp you want to emphasize, such as a fleur-de-lis for a French bedroom, or a bumble bee for a child's room. Dip the stamp into the paint and press it on the wall. Vary the position to create a random design or measure in 3-inch intervals for a uniform design.

Add a stipple effect to the wall. Paint the wall. Dab a clean paintbrush into the drying paint. Keep sticking the brush into the top layer of paint on the entire wall to create a stipple textured wall effect.

Apply a sponge technique to the wall. Add a dark base paint to the wall, preferably in a matte finish. Dilute one part water to two parts paint for a monochromatic effect, or pick an opalescent or alternating paint color. Dip the sponge into the paint and press the sponge against the wall to create your design.

Add a written message to the wall. Tape off the area for the written message. Place the message in an overhead projector and angle the light toward the area. Use a paint color pen to trace the message on the wall.

Design stripes on the wall. Purchase the same paint color in both an eggshell and a satin finish. Cover the wall in the eggshell finish using a roller and allow 24 hours for it to dry. Measure vertical lines every 2 feet in 2-inch widths. Roll the satin finish inside the lines. Remove the tape before the paint dries to prevent peeling,

Add texture to the wall with a combing technique. Roller paint the wall, then press the comb at the bottom of the wall. Comb short, overlapping arcs to create a shell shape on the wall. Run the comb vertically or horizontally in a wavy line to simulate a wavy effect on the wall.