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Wiping Back

A simple effect, used to highlight the pattern of embossed wallpapers and relief decoration.

Learn how to do it with this free illustrated tutorial,
containing pictures of the 3 easy steps required to create the wipe-back effect.





  YOU WILL NEED: -



  Like all paint-effects, wiping back can be a little messy, so wear old clothing or overalls.
  Also: remove or cover all carpets, furniture and other valuables from the room.

  Wiping-back can be performed on embossed wall coverings and ornate plasterwork.

  Ensure that the surface is thoroughly dry before you begin.   (At least 24 hrs for wallpaper & 7 days for new plaster).
  Prepare the surface that is to be painted, apply at least 2 coats of mid-sheen paint in your chosen colour and allow to dry thoroughly.


  WIPING BACK PROCESS.

  In this technique, part of the topcoat, or glaze, is removed by wiping a dry cloth over the surface.
  Where the cloth makes contact with the surface, the glaze is lifted revealing the base coat beneath.

  Apply the mixed glaze evenly with a brush or roller.

  For large areas (embossed wall coverings etc.):
  Water-based paint dries quickly so start on your smallest walls first; your speed will improve with experience.
  Have a bucket or bowl of clean water and some rags close at hand for cleaning purposes.
  It is advisable to get someone else to paint the wall with the mixed glaze ahead of you, so that you can concentrate on creating the effect
  If you must work alone, paint small sections, 3ft (1 metre) at a time, & stop the wiping process 6 inches (150mm) short of the leading edge.


  Ensure that the glaze covers the entire surface, getting into all of the crevices.

  Take a piece of lint-free cotton cloth and fold it to make a pad with a smooth surface (not creased or crumpled).
  Wipe the cotton pad lightly over the surface to remove some of the glaze.
  If the cloth does not remove enough of the glaze, repeat the process, pressing on more firmly.
  Re-fold or replace the cotton pad regularly, so that it does not become saturated with glaze.

  It is important to apply the same amount of pressure over the entire surface to create an even pattern.

  Allow the paint to dry before protecting with a coat of clear glaze or varnish     (optional).




Embossed wallpaper.
Click to enlarge
Apply basecoat & allow to dry.
Click to enlarge
Apply semi-transparent glaze.
Click to enlarge
Wipe back with cotton cloth.


Plaster ceiling rose.
Click to enlarge
Apply basecoat & allow to dry.
Click to enlarge
Apply semi-transparent glaze.
Click to enlarge
Wipe back with cotton cloth.


Click to enlarge






Use the same technique for plaster cornice, dado rails etc.


  !!! With oil-based method, used rags must be laid flat and allowed to dry before discarding to prevent spontaneous combustion. !!!



 


Other tutorials in this series include:
Bagging   Clouding   Colourwash   Dragging   Frottage
Mottling   Rag-rolling   Sponging   Stippling   Verdigris



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