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How can you whitewash brick?

Published in Painting Techniques 3 mins read

You can whitewash brick by applying a thinned-out white paint mixture and then wiping off the excess before it fully absorbs, allowing some of the brick's natural color to show through. This creates a semi-transparent, aged look.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Steps to Whitewash Brick

  1. Prepare the Brick Surface:

    • Clean the brick thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust, or grime. Use a brush and a solution of water and mild detergent. Rinse well and allow to dry completely.

  2. Prepare Your Whitewash Mixture:

    • Thin white latex paint with water. A common ratio is 1:1 (one part paint to one part water), but you can adjust this to achieve your desired level of transparency. Less water will result in a more opaque look.

  3. Apply the Whitewash:

    • Using a brush or roller, apply the whitewash mixture to the brick. Work in manageable sections.
    • For interior brick, ensure adequate ventilation.

  4. Wipe Off the Excess:

    • Before the paint dries completely (usually within a few minutes), use a clean cloth or rag to wipe off the excess whitewash. The amount of paint you wipe off will determine how much of the brick's original color shows through. Experiment to find the right look for you.

  5. Allow to Dry:

    • Let the whitewashed brick dry completely, usually for several hours or overnight.

  6. Optional Second Coat:

    • If you want a more opaque look, apply a second coat of whitewash, repeating steps 3 and 4.

Tips for Successful Whitewashing

  • Test Area: Before whitewashing the entire surface, test the mixture and technique on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure you achieve your desired look.
  • Brick Porosity: The porosity of the brick will affect how quickly it absorbs the paint. Be prepared to work quickly and adjust your wiping technique accordingly. Older brick tends to be more porous.
  • Protect Surroundings: Protect surrounding surfaces with drop cloths or painter's tape to prevent unwanted paint splatters.
  • Safety: Wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from paint splatters.

Materials You'll Need

  • White latex paint
  • Water
  • Buckets for mixing
  • Paintbrushes or rollers
  • Clean cloths or rags
  • Drop cloths
  • Painter's tape (optional)
  • Gloves
  • Eye protection

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully whitewash brick and achieve a beautiful, aged look.

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