How to Decorate Textured Walls

Are you tired of looking at your plain, boring walls? Do you want to add some character and texture to your home decor? Look no further! Here are some tips on how to decorate textured walls.

Decorating textured walls can be a unique and rewarding experience, adding depth and character to any space. However, the uneven surfaces of textured walls require special considerations and techniques to achieve a polished and cohesive look. Whether you’re dealing with a subtle stucco, a bold knockdown finish, or any other textured pattern, the right approach can enhance the visual appeal and overall ambiance of your room.

In this guide, we will explore various methods and tips for decorating textured walls, ensuring that you can create an aesthetically pleasing and harmonious environment.

What Will You Need?

Before decorating your textured walls, gathering all the necessary tools and materials is important. Here are some items you may need:

• Paint or Wallpaper: This will be the main component of your wall decor. Choose a color or pattern that complements the texture of your walls.
• Wall Primer: A good quality primer can help create a smooth and even base for your paint or wallpaper.
• Paint Roller and Tray: These will be essential for applying the primer and paint onto your walls.
• Paintbrushes: You may need different sizes of brushes to reach tight corners and edges.
• Wallpaper Paste and Brush (For Wallpaper): If you’re using wallpaper, make sure to have enough paste to cover the entire wall and a brush to apply it.
• Level, Measuring Tape, and Pencil: These tools will help ensure that your decorations are straight and evenly spaced.
• Wall Adhesive (For Hanging Decor): If you’re planning on hanging artwork or other decor on your textured walls, make sure to use an appropriate adhesive that can hold the weight of the items.

Once you have all your materials ready, it’s time to get started on decorating your textured walls!

8 Easy Steps on How to Decorate Textured Walls

Step 1. Prepare the Surface:

Before you start applying your chosen decor, it’s essential to prepare the surface of your textured walls. Begin by cleaning the walls to remove any dust, debris, or cobwebs that may have accumulated. Use a mild detergent mixed with water and a soft sponge or cloth to gently wipe down the walls. You might need a soft-bristled brush for textured surfaces to get into the crevices and ensure a thorough clean.

Once the walls are clean, allow them to dry completely. This step is crucial because any residual moisture can interfere with the adhesion of paint, wallpaper, or wall decorations.

Step 2. Apply Primer:

Applying a primer is a crucial step when decorating textured walls. The primer acts as a base coat that helps the paint or wallpaper adhere better to the uneven surface. Choose a high-quality primer suited for textured walls, preferably one that is stain-blocking and offers good coverage.

Use a paint roller to apply the primer evenly across the entire wall. For edges and tight corners, a paintbrush will be more effective. Make sure to cover all areas, including any deep crevices or raised portions of the texture. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before moving on to the next step. This typically takes a few hours but can vary based on the product and room conditions such as temperature and humidity.

Step 3. Choose Your Paint or Wallpaper:

Once the primer is thoroughly dry, it’s time to select the paint or wallpaper for your textured walls. When choosing paint, consider a finish that will highlight the texture, such as satin or semi-gloss. These finishes can accentuate the raised areas and provide a subtle sheen that adds depth to the room. For a more understated look, a matte finish can help to minimize the appearance of the texture.

Select a pattern and color that complements the existing texture if you opt for wallpaper. Some wallpapers are specifically designed for textured walls and can enhance their visual appeal. Measure your walls accurately to determine how much paint or wallpaper you’ll need, and always purchase a little extra to account for any mistakes or miscalculations.

Step 4. Apply Paint or Wallpaper:

With your primer dry and your paint or wallpaper selected, it’s time to start the application process. If you’re painting, pour your paint into a tray and use a roller to apply it evenly to the walls. Work in small sections, starting from the top and moving downwards, to ensure thorough coverage. Use a paintbrush to carefully apply the paint for corners and tight spots. Applying multiple coats to achieve the desired opacity may be necessary, especially on textured surfaces. Make sure to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one.

If you’re using wallpaper, cut the wallpaper into manageable strips according to the height of your walls, leaving a little extra at the top and bottom to trim later. Apply wallpaper paste to the back of the strip using a wallpaper brush or roller. Starting from the top, position the strip on the wall and use a smoothing tool to press it into place, ensuring there are no bubbles or wrinkles. Continue to apply strips, carefully aligning the pattern at the edges to create a seamless look. Trim any excess wallpaper at the ceiling and floor with a utility knife once all strips are in place.

Step 5. Allow to Dry and Set:

After applying the paint or wallpaper, it is vital to allow sufficient drying and setting time to ensure a durable finish. For paint, follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying times, which typically range from a few hours to overnight for full curing. Ensure the room is well-ventilated to facilitate faster drying. Allow the adhesive to set as instructed for wallpaper, usually around 24 to 48 hours. This period is crucial to ensure that the paint or wallpaper adheres properly to the textured surface and provides a lasting finish. Avoid touching or placing any items against the walls during this time to prevent any disruptions or imperfections in your new wall decor.

Step 6. Add Wall Decor:

Once your paint or wallpaper has completely dried and set, it’s time to add your wall decor. This step allows you to personalize your space and make it truly your own. Start by planning the layout of your decor items. Use a level and measuring tape to ensure that everything is aligned properly. If you’re hanging pictures or artwork, use a wall adhesive that is strong enough to hold the weight of your items and suitable for textured surfaces.

Mirrors, shelves, and other decor can also be added using appropriate mounting hardware. For lighter items, adhesive hooks or mounting strips work well. Take your time in this step to arrange everything to your satisfaction, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing display.

Step 7. Incorporate Lighting:

Now that your walls are decorated consider incorporating appropriate lighting to highlight your textured surfaces and decor elements. Lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing the visual appeal of your room. Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a layered lighting scheme. Wall sconces, pendant lights, and track lighting can be strategically placed to cast interesting shadows and highlight the texture of your walls. Consider using dimmable lights to adjust the ambiance according to the occasion. Additionally, LED strip lights behind shelves or around picture frames can add a modern touch and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Experiment with different lighting arrangements to find the perfect balance that complements your textured walls and overall room decor.

Step 8. Maintain Your Walls:

Maintaining your newly painted or wallpapered textured walls is crucial for ensuring their longevity and appearance. Regular dusting with a microfiber cloth or a feather duster can help prevent the buildup of dust and grime. For more thorough cleaning, use a gentle cleanser and a soft sponge or cloth to avoid damaging the texture. Spot cleaning can address any stubborn stains or marks. It’s also a good idea to periodically check for any peeling or loose wallpaper edges and reapply adhesive if necessary. Keeping the walls in good condition will not only preserve their visual appeal but will also contribute to the overall ambiance of your room.

By following these steps, you can successfully add texture to your walls and create a visually interesting and unique space.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Ignoring Wall Preparation: Skipping the crucial step of properly cleaning and priming your textured walls can lead to poor adhesion of paint or wallpaper. Always prepare your surface adequately to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.

2. Using Thin or Low-Quality Paint: Opting for inexpensive or low-quality paint can result in uneven coverage, especially on textured surfaces. High-quality, thicker paints are better suited for the task as they provide superior coverage and durability.

3. Overlooking Proper Measurements: Failing to measure your walls accurately before purchasing wallpaper or decor can lead to insufficient supplies or mismatched patterns. Always double-check your measurements and consider buying a little extra material to account for mistakes.

4. Neglecting Lighting: Textured walls can look dull and unappealing without the right lighting to accentuate their texture and design. Be sure to incorporate proper lighting strategies to bring out the best in your walls.

5. Rushing the Process: Adding texture to your walls is a time-consuming process that requires patience and attention to detail. Rushing through the steps can result in a shoddy finish and cause frustration. Take your time, follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful textured walls that enhance your room’s overall aesthetic. 

By following these tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you can successfully add texture to your walls and create a unique and visually appealing space that reflects your personal style.

Conclusion

How to decorate textured walls can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and a bit of creativity, it can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of any room. The key is to carefully prepare the surface, select appropriate finishes, and thoughtfully apply your chosen paint or wallpaper.

Taking the time to plan and execute each step ensures a polished and professional result. Once the primary work is done, adding decorative elements and lighting can further highlight the texture and add depth to your space. Finally, regular maintenance will keep your textured walls looking fresh and vibrant over time.

By following these comprehensive steps, you can transform your textured walls into a beautiful and cohesive part of your home décor.