Combing

 

 
Combed walls provide a relaxing, natural backdrop for today's casual lifestyles.
I have used this technique to create a crisp linen look in a seaside beach-house, and to create a comfortable denim feel to a cheery bathroom. This woven look is created by dragging a special combing tool first vertically then horizontally through wet glaze.

Base Color
Benjamin Moore Paint #2108-60

Glaze Colors
(A) Benjamin Moore Paint #HC-151

How-To Instructions

Prep 1:
Before base coating, make sure your surface is in good condition. Patch holes and cracks with spackling paste, and wash any dirt from surface using a mild soap. Mask all windows, baseboards, and moldings using 2" painter's tape. Evenly apply paint with roller. Base coat should always be a satin or semi-gloss latex finish. Two coats may be necessary depending on coverage. Let dry 24 hours.
Prep 2:
Before you faux, prepare your glaze/paint mixture(s). A 5:1 ratio (5 parts Faux Like Pro glaze to 1 part paint) is highly recommended. This ratio will allow you time to work the finish and prevent it from drying too fast.
Step 1:
Evenly apply glaze A with a 4" latex brush, using consistent horizontal strokes. Start at the top of the wall and work from left to right, corner to corner, covering the top third of the wall.
Step 2:
While the glaze is still wet, brush over the same area with a dry, bristle block brush to even out the glaze.
Step 3:
Using steady pressure, drag your large comb through the wet glaze the entire length of the wall. Wipe off comb after each pass. Perfectly straight lines are not necessary; irregularities create an appealing textural quality. Leave a two-inch strip of wet glaze untouched at the bottom of each section. Continue steps 1-3 until entire wall is covered with horizontal combing lines. Let dry 24 hours.
Step 4:
Evenly apply another layer of glaze A over the original comb finish with a 4" latex brush using consistent vertical strokes. Start at the top of the wall and work your way down to the bottom, covering the first third of the wall.
Step 5:
While the glaze is still wet, brush over the same area with a dry, bristle softener brush to even out the glaze.

Step 6:
Use your large comb to drag vertically through the wet glaze. Hold the comb with two hands as you move down the wall from top to bottom. A good grip and steady pressure will allow you to create straight lines. Repeat steps 4-6 until the entire wall is covered.

Tip 1
If your comb slides out of alignment you can redo the pass by brushing over the mistake with the tinted glaze.

Tip 2
As you drag the comb down the wall glaze will build up between the comb and will gather at the end of each pass, especially in corners. You can use a small brush to clean up any messy areas.

Tip 3
Keep up a speedy rhythm as you work to avoid drying paint. If your brushed on area dries before you can pass a comb through it, loosen it up by applying fresh glaze.

FINAL FINISH

Supplies:

- gallon of glaze
- large comb
- bristle block brush

You will also need the following basic supplies from your local hardware store:

- 4" latex all purpose brushes
- paint roller
- medium nap
- roller tray
- 3" latex cutting brush
- large bucket for water
- 2 containers to hold glaze/paint mixture
- painter's tape
- latex gloves
- rags for clean up
- drop cloths