Step 1: Test the Wall Area

Cover your flooring with plenty of drop cloths. This is a very messy job.

Use a 5-inch or an 8-inch floor scraper. Gently test an area of your wall to see how easily the texture comes off. Once you know the amount of pressure needed, determine the best angle to hold the scraper while you work.

Step 2: Remove the Texture from the Wall

Do not work at too severe of an angle or you may gouge and damage your drywall.

Scrape the wall and remove the texture working on one four square foot area at a time.

Once the entire area has been scraped clean, go over the area with a damp cloth to remove any dust and debris. Clean your cloth often. Once the area is clean, let it dry completely before doing any further work on the wall, like applying paint or any other finish.

Step 3: Apply an Oil-Based Primer

Apply an oil-based primer all over the wall. Be sure to wear gloves and properly ventilate the area when working. Let it dry completely.

Step 4: Smooth Out the Texture

Use ready mix joint compound and apply it with a wallboard knife. Apply a generous layer. If your knife is scraping the wall you're pressing too hard and more mud is needed on the knife. About 3/8 inch thick is a good amount. Feather the edges to an almost invisible finish to maintain an even look.

Let the first coat dry for 24 hours.

Step 5: Apply Second Layer to Compound

Use a spray bottle to dampen the area with a fine mist of water. Then, apply a second layer of joint compound just as you did the first. Again, let dry for 24 hours.

Apply a thin skim coat and be careful to evenly feather out the edges and create as smooth and even a finish as possible.

Once this dries for 24 hours apply primer and paint as desired.