Projects

Combed Stripes

Project Overview

The combed-stripe technique, created by combing overlapping S curves within taped-off stripes, can simulate the look of moire ribbon or can simply add a lively sense of movement to ordinary stripes. The pattern is created by dragging a notched comb through wet glaze that has been applied over a dry base-coat color. The larger the notches in the comb, the larger the pattern. Prenotched combs are available in various widths at paint centers and art supply stores or you can make your own from a window squeegee. This finish works best on smooth walls. Practice on a sample board to achieve the desired effect before moving to the wall. Add more glaze or a paint conditioner to the mixture if the glaze dries to quickly. Vertical stripes appear to extend the ceiling, so this finish works well in a small area to add an illusion of height.

3 Steps

MEASURE HORIZONTALLY
ROLL ON GLAZE
DRAG THE SQUEEGEE IN THE REVERSE DIRECTION

Step 1

MEASURE HORIZONTALLY

Measure and mark the strip widths horizontally every 11 inches using a colored pencil and level with printed ruler. Measure each wall individually. Plan for a solid Hazelnut Cream strip to fall in each corner rather than a combed stripe. Adjust the measurement as needed to work around doors and windows. Extend the measurement vertically wit ha level and a colored pencil. Use low-tack painter’s tape to mask off every other stripe. Burnish the edge of the tape wit ha finer to keep the paint from bleeding underneath the tape.

Step 2

ROLL ON GLAZE

Mix 4 parts glaze to 1 part Romantic Isle latex paint in a plastic container. Use a container with printed measurements for easy measuring. The mixture should roll on easily without running. Adjust the glaze-to-paint ratio of the consistency is too thin. Use a trim brush to cut in the ceiling and trim, then roll glaze onto the first stripe using the 6-inch mini roller. Roll a second time over the entire strip to ensure a smooth, even finish. Working quickly, start at the top of the wall and drag the squeegee, making a continuous “S” pattern down the wall. Cover the width of the stripe but try not to go outside the edges of the tape. Wipe excess paint from the squeegee with a cotton cloth.

DRAG THE SQUEEGEE IN THE REVERSE DIRECTION

Step 3

DRAG THE SQUEEGEE IN THE REVERSE DIRECTION

Starting at the top of the wall again, repeat the “S” motion down the wall, but this time reverse the direction. Remove tape immediately to prevent paint from being pulled off the wall. Repeat the process with every other strip until the room is completed. Remove all tape and allow the walls to dry overnight.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 3 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

Materials