How to Make a Textured Accent Wall

Brief 

limewash treatment can help you achieve an aged, textured look on a variety of surfaces—in particular, it can be a great way to accent one wall to create a focal point of any room.

Insight

limewash treatment can help you achieve an aged, textured look on a variety of surfaces—in particular, it can be a great way to accent one wall to create a focal point of any room.

The method was originally used for brick and masonry, so it works the best on a porous surface, but with the variety of paint products available today, it’s gaining traction as a room and furniture treatment, as well.

Before you start, keep in mind that limewash can’t be cleaned with water—and, because the overall effect relies on texture, this paint technique isn’t ideal for table tops or other surfaces that should be smooth. But this expensive-looking finish is possible to pull off yourself on the right surface with some materials and prep.

Applying your primer, lime putty, and primer layer

First, you need to prepare your wall surface by applying your primer. Tape off any surfaces you don’t want to paint and apply your mineral-based acrylic primer to the wall’s surface with your roller. Use the brush to paint areas the roller can’t easily cover. Allow your primer to dry thoroughly before applying your first layer of limewash.

Making lime putty for your next step will make the rest of the process easier as it dissolves more evenly in your lime wash mixture.

To make the putty, fill your five gallon bucket about a third of the way with water. Then, use your whisk or other stirring implement to mix in hydrated lime powder until it’s the consistency of frosting or plaster putty. Make sure to wear your goggles, mask, and gloves for this part.