What Can I Add to Wall Glaze at Home to Make It Shimmer?

Iridescent

• To achieve a shimmering effect with the paint you have, choose an additive that advertises itself as being “iridescent.” These additives are usually manufactured in small-sized bottles in a variety of colors that can be used at strength to produce different shades. Choose the color based on the color of your glaze, as mixing changes the advertised shade.

Metallic

• Some companies make and sell a variety of custom color products that contain metal flakes. These tiny flakes reflect light back to the eye, giving an overall shimmery or glittery effect to walls. Many of these products can be added to or used under or over corresponding glazes. It is always a good idea to work within one company's product line for best results and to follow all instructions with the products you choose.

Glittering

• Depending on the glaze and glitter you are working with, glitter glaze is applied over the painted wall surface to produce a shimmering effect. In these, the glaze dries clear, leaving only the shining bits of glitter visible on the wall. Mixing a glitter glaze with a plain glaze is not advisable.

DIY

• Since decorating is all about creativity, try working with the materials you have available. For instance, if you are painting a small area or a child's room, try adding in a bit of school glitter to your glaze. Always begin with less, and work your way up. Have a piece of primed plywood or poster board handy, and test your mixture to see whether you like the way it goes on and the way it dries before applying it to a wall.