Moldy Mildew Texture Technique

This is an amazing technique that I discovered visiting my local hardware and having an open creative mind. It is a simple but effective at aging ordinary surfaces into tattered and torn and weathered and worn objects. 

supplies: black gesso, board, wall texture spray, distress inks, sealer, gloves, glimmer mists
1.    Paint desired surface with black gesso working quickly as randomness is the desired outcome.

2.    Allow to dry fully.
3.    In a well ventilated area preferably outside on a sunny day cover the area you will be working on with plastic or tarp.
4.    Following directions on a wall texture  spray cover the entire gesso painted surface allowing some of the black gesso to show through. Homex Wall Texture is our go-to spray purchased at the local hardware store.

 

5.    Dry as instructed on the spay texture container.
6.    Spray with distress inks of your liking. I prefer Tim Holtz tones of brown, green, yellow and blue.

 

7.    I like to add a touch of shine using a sparse spraying of a product like Tattered Angels: Glimmer Mist.

8.    Allow to fully air dry,  in the sun is my preference.
9.    Once dried you can add depth and details by adding other inks and paints of your choosing.

10.Set surface using a matt gel or glossy gel  medium of your choosing. I have used Mod-Podge, Golden, Liquitex and even Americana DuraClear.

Worth Noting: This was a magical mistake. Hardware Stores are filled with unsuspecting art supplies. The desired effect is to have some of the black gesso showing through. This is a messy process and best to be done when you can do it outside. Use disposable nitrile gloves to protect your hands and also if you do not like being messy. We prefer Grease Monkey brand and buy them at our local hardware stores.