Paint Finishes Made All the More Spectacular by Dragging

by Anthony J. Namata

An ordinary-looking wall can be easily transformed into something more chic and up-market with just the stroke of a brush ... and you wouldn't believe it, a comb. Commonly known as dragging, this technique can make a room seem immediately larger and less boxy. And it is one of the rare painting techniques that can in fact work extremely well when you get just the right color combinations in, to either contrast or blend in with the shades. This article will offer tips on how to use a comb and a brush to create utterly spectacular paint finishes that only dragging can effect.

If you want a tougher and finer finish, a base paint that is primarily a flat mid-sheen oil-based paint would help you achieve that remarkably well as it is non-absorbent, therefore the colored glaze would slide on easily, and won't sink in. Apply the glaze using a white brush 100 or 125mm [4 or 5inch] in width and generously bristled. Dragging on the other hand only needs a cheap standard brush 100mm [4inches] in width. However, use white spirit [mineral spirits] for thinning the glaze. Glycerin, from a chemist or druggist, may help to keep an emulsion wash malleable for a longer period.

Dragging works best with two people, one applying the glaze or wash, and the other one dragging it off; and while doing this the state of mind you should aim for is attentive but relaxed. Bristles should touch the wall firmly but lightly. Use rags to wipe dragging brush every couple of strokes or so to prevent it from becoming loaded with glaze ... you don't want to put color on instead of dragging it off! Allow transparent oil glaze a day or two to dry. Thinned paint dries faster although it doesn't produce quite the same crisp finish as transparent oil glaze. But it's easier to handle. Complete dragged wall with coat of clear matt or colorless acrylic varnish as a protection against wear and tear or washing down.

A comb is another tool that can create a magnificent dragging effect on a wall with relative ease. You can actually make your own comb by simply cutting a plastic lid in half, and then cutting V-shaped notches about ¼-inch long into the straight edge of a cut lid. Depending on the look you want to create, spacing between notches can be even or uneven, but to avoid excess paint buildup between notches, make teeth fairly narrow.

In both techniques, you work your way down the wall with brush (or the comb) from top to bottom... and some professionals even add side to side, then top to bottom again over the same strip. I'd say experiment with different ideas when applying these two techniques -- you never know what you will discover. Have fun with it!

Dragging is a faux-painting technique that produces thin, vertical stripes on the wall. It works best on wood paneling or a smooth wall surface. A dry brush or a comb can be used to create this look of luxury, but it does work best with two people, one applying the glaze or wash, and the other one dragging it off. So the next time you want to spruce up your walls with special paint finishes, consider dragging.

Anthony J. Namata is a successful Internet Marketer and author of How to Become An International Gemstone Dealer and his popular online journal Diary Of An Internet Marketer
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