Troubleshooting a Spray Texture That Is Sliding Off the Wall

Examine the texture mixture that you created with joint compound and water, and make sure it's not too soupy. Add more compound if necessary to make the consistency thicker. Stir it with a mixer attached to a power drill.

Spray the newly mixed texture onto a scrap piece of plywood to make sure it's the right consistency and won't slide off.

Clean the wall if the texture is still sliding off the wall. Dust and dirt can interfere with adhesion. Pour a few drops of dish detergent in a bucket of water. Wet a sponge with the soapy water, and wipe the wall clean. Rinse with water, and dry the wall with a clean cloth before you try spraying on the texture again.

Prime the wall if washing it doesn't work. This will seal the wall and help the texture adhere. First scrape the sliding texture off the wall, using a paint scraper. Then apply a coat of primer, using a paintbrush and roller.