Step 3: Spread the Paint Out

how to paint a color wash step three: spread the paint out with random brush strokes
Photo: Kolin Smith
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Without refilling your brush, sweep smaller, random marks across and over the X to drag and spread the paint. Dip the brush in the paint again as it begins to dry and continue the choppy, random motion until you’ve covered the wall in haphazard marks. Be sure to leave a lot of the base color showing through.

TOH Tip: Stop and step back from the wall often to check that you’re covering the space evenly. Go back and fix bare spots if necessary.
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    Tools List

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    • tarp
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    • putty knife
      Putty knife
    • paintroller
      Roller frame
    • paint pan
      Paint tray
    • bucket
      Paint bucket
    • paintbrush
      1 1/2-inch angled sash brush
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    Shopping List

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    1. Latex Paint: You need to choose three colors: a base coat in semigloss and two layer colors in eggshell or matte. The layer colors get mixed with glaze, so get about half as much of these two shades as you would need to paint the whole room.

    2. Latex Glaze to smooth the effect and create a translucent top coat. One gallon is enough for a 10-by-10-foot room. 3. Spackling Compound to repair the walls before painting.

    4. 150-Grit Sandpaper

    5. Primer to spot-prime any spackled areas.

    6. Tray Liners and Bucket Liners

    7. 3/8-inch Nap Roller Cover