Sometimes a faux finish just doesn't turn out like you have planned. This question comes from a reader who used a ragging technique and likes it, but it so busy that she can't find accessories to place on the wall. What should she do? 

Dear Debra,
I had painted the main wall of our LR using the ragging technique. I used a tan base color and a light burgundy mixed w/glaze for the faux top coat.
I have lived with this for several months now. I like the look and so does everyone else.
The problem is I would like to lighten it up using the same paints. The burgundy is a bit heavy and looks "too busy".  just I cant put anything on the wall due to clashing.
Basically, I want the same affect I have only much lighter on the burgundy.
Where do I start?  I'm thinking,  painting the wall tan again… But do I just add more glaze to the burgundy? If I add too much doesn't it begin to get lighter meaning lose it's brightness and going towards pinkish? Much appreciated, Lori P

Lori… this is a great question.  I will give you advise for "fixing" you walls as best I can. Without a photo, it is hard for THAT Painter Lady to get a clear picture of the problem.  My guess is… that you didn't go far enough with your ragging technique.

Here is the problem with stopping too soon. The effect looks choppy and busy instead of blended.  Going over the wall with the burgundy glaze will give you another layer of the rich color and begin to blend in the choppiness.  Try this before you paint over the faux finish.

If you decide that the finish is just to dark and rich a color and want to start over, then you will need to choose a different color. Burgundy will turn pink if you "lighten" it up.  

Another option would be to do a "frosted technique" over the top of the burgundy. It might make it lighter without giving it a pink look.   You can find more information about this here: Frosted Faux Finishes

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