This is one of the simplest ways to introduce colour, texture and interest to a surface. Once again, it is the background or base colour that remains dominant in the scheme, but it will be modified by random 'speckles' of one or more colours. The only drawback to speckling is that it can be a messy process, so cover any surfaces and adjoining areas you want to be kept 'speckle free' and cover electrical fittings with masking tape. Oil paint reduced with just a little white spirits is the preferred medium for speckling - you can even use metallic paints to add a sparkle. The tip of a stiff bristled brush is dipped into the speckle colour and then held about 100mm (4in) from the surface. A small stick - an old wooden school ruler is ideal - is dragged across the bristles towards you, launching flecks of colour onto the surface. Once this colour is dry, you can add a second speckle colour, if you choose.
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