To create a feeling of luxurious silk or designer wallpaper "faux dragging" can be applied on the majority of perfectly smooth and readied surfaces. Whilst it is a fairly easy technique to actually learn it creates impressive benefits to the overall painting and decorating project as the finishes are both luxurious and stunning.
A huge number of different glazes and latex paints can be used to create the "faux dragging" effect but we would always suggest using an oil based paint or glaze as it will give your more leeway in terms of trying to manipulate it into the requisite styles as non-oil based ones can dry extremely quickly. This best thing about this technique is that not only does it work on walls and ceilings but it can easily be applied to most types of woodwork and furniture.
The effect is created when a dry brush is pulled through a colored glaze. In doing so the base color is reflected in very fine lines, which make the wall's look like silk fabric. Dragging is most effective in soft colors such as pastels, over a white base coat. You can also use a cream or off-white base with tan or taupe colors to create a "vintage" look.
So here are the steps you need to take to perform "faux dragging":
Apply the two coats of a latex base coat (white or off-white). After painting both coats, let the wall dry for at least two hours.
Mix satin latex paint with latex glazing liquid according to the instructions n the package of the glazing liquid.
Apply the colored glaze to a workable length of surface.
Start at one end and pull a 4 "dragging brush (or any long bristled brush) through the wet glaze. You can also perform this technique using a dry rag. Repeat several times to get the desired effect. can as you drag.
Also note that if you are actually working with the full height of a wall from ceiling to base board, you can use a very wide brush, such as a wallpaper brush or even the wide end of a broom.
Repeat steps 3 & 4 on the next area. Clean the dragging brush on a rag before dragging the next area.
If applying the dragging finish to woodwork or trim, apply a coat of varnish, after the finish is dry.