Wall Spackle Texture Process

A drywall trowel will create dimensional texture when applying spackle.

Wall spackle can be used to create rough and dimensional texture on walls and ceilings. Spackle, often called mud or joint compound, is a form of gypsum plaster. It comes premixed or in dry form and is then mixed with water. A variety of different types are available, from fast- to slow-drying formulas. Always practice your technique before heading straight to the wall. Spackle is difficult to remove, especially when heavily applied as texture.

Applicators

Look for specialty trowels made with a round beveled edge, often used when working with venetian and other faux finish plasters. The round edge of the trowel avoids scrape marks and lines when applying the plaster. If you cannot find a specialty tool like this, use a drywall trowel. The only difference between a drywall trowel and a faux finish trowel is that the drywall version has a 90-degree corner. You must use more care to not scrape into the wet plaster with the sharp corners. Always clean your tools often. Have a bucket of water and scrub brush handy during the work process. Dry spackle buildup can cause scrapes and crumbled areas in you finished texture.

Method

Apply the spackle to the flat edge of the trowel. Glide the trowel across your surface, at the same time applying the plaster onto the surface. The technique is similar to buttering a piece of toast. Once the plaster is applied, dip and move the plaster around to create texture. Each person will create their own texture when plastering with spackle. Just be sure you are able to recreate the process over the entire wall.

Final Coat

Roll on a primer with a long nap roller. The nap of the roller refers to how long the material around the roller is. Longer haired rollers are used for rougher textures. Apply the primer in even strokes without much pressure. Two coats are generally recommended, as the first coat absorbs the primer. After the primer coats have dried, roll on two or more coats of acrylic latex paint.

Touch Ups

Touching up your spackle texture may be necessary at some point. Sand the area and fill in any cracks or dings with joint compound. Lightly sand the joint compound once it has dried. Reapply the texture using the same tools, and closely match the existing plaster. Wait for plaster to dry then apply primer and paint.

Tags: drywall trowel, joint compound, applying plaster, dimensional texture, edge trowel, faux finish