Scumbling is a painting technique that softens the color on a wall. When walls are scumbled, a thin layer of opaque or semi-opaque paint is applied to the wall. This paint is so thin that it allows the undercoat to show through. You can easily scumble the walls of your own home by following a few steps.
Instructions
1. Clean your wall thoroughly to prepare it for painting. Allow the wall to dry after cleaning. Wipe a towel along areas that are still wet.
2. Paint your base color on the wall and then allow the base to dry.
3. Use a pencil to draw your design on the wall. The designs are generally closed geometric shapes. Place painter's tape over your pencil marks to divide the areas and prepare for painting.
4. Place the end of your stencil brush into your first color. Take the brush out and brush it onto a paper towel using a circular motion. Continue brushing until there is just a little paint left on the brush.
5. Brush the paint brush onto the wall within the boundaries you set with the painter's tape. Apply the paint to one area at a time in a wide circular motion and then reverse the direction. Allow the paint to extend over the tape as you brush.
6. Add your second color using the same technique. As you add each additional color, note that the previously applied undercoats should continue to show through.
7. Apply a third layer of paint if desired. Use the same technique you used for the first and second colors.
