Step 1: Prepare the Area

Note: Applying a fresh base coat isn't necessary. For this project, we used latex paint in an eggshell finish (Sweet Daphne #529 from Benjamin Moore), and an antiquing glaze (Tea Stain from Ralph Lauren).

Use an old paintbrush or China bristle brush to dust baseboards, trim and crown molding before taping them off (use painter's tape with paper attached to protect the baseboards). Overlap seams by at least an inch to avoid seepage between pieces, and then seal the tape to the surface with your fingers or a rag.

Step 2: Paint and Apply the Tissue Paper

Starting in the upper left portion of a wall, paint an area slightly bigger than the size of the tissue paper you're using (use a paintbrush to apply paint to corners and near baseboards and molding). Crinkle a piece of tissue paper to create texture; open it up, and adhere it to the wet paint surface, smoothing it as desired. Don't worry about ripping the paper, just smooth the surface with your fingers and continue.

Step 3: Paint Over the Tissue Paper

Load the roller again and paint over the tissue paper. If you don't like the way the paper lays against the wall, smooth it out with your fingers before painting over it again. Tear off excess paper around the wall edges, corners and baseboards.

Continue in a horizontal line across one wall, overlapping the tissue paper each time so there aren't any flat areas. Cover the rest of the wall in the same fashion, making sure to apply the tissue paper in neat rows.

If desired, take this technique one step further by colorwashing antiquing glaze over the dried surface for an Old World feel.