How to Apply a Finish to Sheetrock Walls

Finish on sheetrock adds texture to the wall before applying paint or wallpaper. Sheetrock finishes fall into two basic categories -- textured and smooth. A smooth texture is typically applied to surfaces that will be covered with wallpaper. A textured surface adds interest to the wall and can range from a bumpy, popcorn texture to a muddy-looking appearance. The finish's texture depends on the type of finish mixture selected and the way it is applied. You can purchase a finish mixture to create popcorn or another type of texture.

Painter's tape, old sheet or tarp
Sandpaper
Drywall hopper gun with compressor
Finish mixture
Drywall pan
Stirring stick

Instructions

- 1
  Tape off the ceiling and floor with painter's tape. You could also drape an old sheet or tarp over the floor.
- 2
  Touch the sheetrock and joints to verify the surfaces are dry, smooth and clean. Use sandpaper to smooth out any surface imperfections if necessary.
- 3
  Mix the finish compound according to the manufacturer's directions. Add the specified amount of finish powder to a mud pan then add the appropriate amount of water. Stir the mixture with a stick
- 4
  Assemble the drywall spray gun with the compressor according to the manufacturer's instructions. Attach one end of the air hose to the hopper. The hopper is the container that holds the mixture. Attach the other end of the hose to the air compressor. You can purchase or rent a drywall spray gun rig from a building supply store.
- 5
  Turn on the compressor and allow it to build up pressure.
- 6
  Pour the mixture into the spray gun container.
- 7
  Point the nozzle toward a test piece of sheetrock and squeeze the trigger. Spray the finish mixture onto the test piece of sheetrock to hone your skills. Use different nozzle sizes and adjust the compressor settings until you get the desired spray texture.
- 8
  Spray the mixture in long strokes on the actual sheetrock. Start from the top of the sheetrock and work your way down. Allow the mixture to dry.

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