Materials and Tools

• To begin a faux stucco paint technique, purchase dry or premixed joint compound, tinted paint or a mixable sand texture package. To mask a previous undesirable paint color, buy primer also. Next, purchase a water-based polyurethane sealant to make cleaning easier, but to also protect the wall from stains and splatter. To apply the paint and compound mixture, buy trowels of various sizes. One trowel will work fine, but different trowel sizes vary the depths and quality of the detailing streaks made for a more authentic impression. Finally, purchase painter's tape and drop cloths to protect nearby surfaces. For delicate or painted surfaces, ask a store associate for tape that will not damage existing finishes and wood.
  
  

Preparing the Surface

• Clean walls with a mild soap and water mixture, or use a white vinegar and water mixture that is an environmentally safe cleaning solution, equally effective for removing grease, scum and dirt. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding. If necessary, prime the walls with a stain-blocking primer to conceal unsightly marks from crayons, markers or grease. Next tape off contact surfaces like the ceiling, windows and trim, and cover the floor under the work area with a drop cloth. While the faux stucco paint technique is ideal for hiding drywall imperfections, it is best to repair any major holes, dents or tears. Be sure to remove any old wallpaper and glue before painting.
  
  

Making the Mixture

• Several different faux stucco paint techniques recreate the rough surface of an Italian-inspired room but depend greatly on the user's skill and the desired textured effect. For the first style, mix powdered joint compound and paint together until the texture is similar to creamy mashed potatoes. The second technique involves buying a mixable sand texture package from the home improvement store and mixing it with a gallon of paint. For larger rooms, mix in a large bucket to keep colors uniform. To follow the third style, add premixed joint compound to the paint tray, then spoon different colored paints into the mixture lightly and apply to the wall with a paint roller. This creates a marbled look, though color selection here needs to be careful, as the compound will lighten the shade and a brick red can turn a bright pink shade.
  
  

Applying the Paint

• Using a trowel, scoop the joint compound mixture from the paint tray and spread on the wall in various circular motions. If working with a partner, work together on the same wall to keep the pattern style uniform. Keep the compound mixture layer thin, less than ¼ of an inch, to prevent cracking. Allow this to dry and add another layer. To correct sharp angles or strange trowel strokes, lightly sand imperfections and reapply. If using the plain compound mixture, prime and paint the surface. For the mixable sand texture, use a paint roller to apply the paint mixture to the wall. Finally, apply the protective sealant coat to finish the project. Decorate with Italian or Hispanic décor to complete the impression.