
Mud trowel: Also called skip trowel, this technique provides a flatter, more subtle look than splatter or stomp.

Because drywall is initially applied by roller to fully cover the surface, and an additional step of stomping is required before knockdown, the entire process can take about twice as long as splatter. Next, a stiff-bristled crows-foot brush ($8 to $20) is stomped into the mud and, to finish, the mud is flattened with a standard knockdown knife, leaving a finger-like texture on 60 percent or more of the surface. It’s created by thinning pre-mixed or ready-to-mix drywall mud with water and then applying it to a wall or ceiling using a paint roller.

Splatter: The most popular knockdown texture, splatter has the classic look of Spanish lace stucco-an intricate pattern of splotches inspired by lace veils.There are three main types of knockdown texture-splatter, stomp, and mud trowel-each with a distinct look and requiring unique tools and techniques. Photo: via bradleypjohnson Three Types of Texture
