Tools and Materials

Colors

Base Coat: Benjamin Moore 1585 Wales Gray
Glaze Tint: Benjamin Moore 1001 North Creek Brown

Other Colors to Try:
Base Coat: Benjamin Moore 750 Seabrook
Glaze Tint: Benjamin Moore 563 Douglas Fern

Tool

Four patterns rim the edges of a compact square rubber combing tool, used to create straight combed patterns as well as the striated lengths in a faux-bois design.

Combed Wall "Tiles" How-To

1. Paint the Background Using a 9-inch paint roller with a 1/4-inch nap, paint the surface in desired color using latex paint. Let dry thoroughly.

2. Make the Glaze Mix 1 part latex paint (pearl finish or satin finish) with 1 part latex or acrylic glazing liquid and 2 parts water. (If using oil paint, mix 1 part oil paint with 1 part oil glazing liquid and 1 part mineral spirits.)

3. Paint the Combed Pattern Using painters' tape, mark several 18-inch square sections on dried base coat using a pencil and a level.

4. Working in 1 square at a time, apply a thin layer of glaze with a China bristle brush.

5. Pull the combing tool through the glaze.

6. Repeat in remaining sections, alternating direction of stripes with each square. Let dry.