Technique: Ragging Off

Technique: Ragging Off

Ragging is a quick and simple method of painting which produces outstanding results. Ragging can be done by two methods: ragging on is the technique used to add wet paint to the surface, and ragging off is the technique of removing wet paint from the surface. The rag can be either scrunched up and dabbed over the surface or rolled up like a sausage and rolled over the surface to give a more constant patterned effect.

Tools you will need: paint, unhemmed cotton rags, wash or glaze, mixing container, roller and/or brush,rubber gloves, paper towels and a large bucket of water.

Here's how:
You can use the existing paint for a basecoat, or add a new coat of paint.
Mix your wash or glaze. Work in sections no larger than 3' x 3'. As you work you may find that paint builds up on your gloves. Periodically dip your hands into the bucket of water and wash off any buildup (for latex only).

Ragging off: Once you begin this technique you can only break when reaching a natural break in the surface such as a corner. For larger areas it is best to work with a partner - one to apply the glaze and the other to rag it off. You will need several clean rags available when you begin. Lightly dampen the rag with a small amount of thinner so it will hold its shape when you scrunch or roll it.

Scrunch- First apply some glaze, start with a 3' x 3' section. Scrunch the rag comfortably in your hand and begin to dab it over the surface, removing some of the glaze and allowing the background color to show through. Quickly move onto the next section repeating the steps until the surface is done. Once your rag becomes too wet to remove the glaze, toss it aside and start with a fresh one.

Rolling- Apply your glaze in a 3' x 3' area, and roll your rolled rag over the surface in random directions, removing glaze as you go.

HINT: It usually works best to start in the upper conrner of the wall and work downward to the floor, moving sideways unless your wall is much higher than wide. This will help you maintain a "wet edge" so that you can overlap the areas easily.