How can I apply texture to cedar?

here are some ideas but you could also put on a clear coat or polyurethane to show the wood but spruce it up ~

How to Texture Over Wood | Hunker

https://www.hunker.com › ... › Home Repair & Maintenance › Wall Repairs

Design Dilemma: How Do I Modernize My Cedar Walls? - Houzz

https://www.houzz.com/.../list/design-dilemma-how-do-i-modernize-my-cedar-walls

Yes, cedar is a relatively soft wood. You can use a large metal bristled brush to "comb" in some grain. To get deeper lines you can use the old style can opener (the one that pokes a triangular hole) or a flathead screwdriver. Just be sure to follow the real grain so you don't rake up a bunch of splinters. Your wood will distress better if you get your bathroom steamy and soften the boards a little.

What type of texture are you wanting?

Cedar makes lovely and somewhat scented smooth boards. If you want the cedar restored, sand as much as you can while the cedar is on the wall, removing baseboards and trim. If it is cedar-printed plywood, sand or not. But you could paint a color you like right over the boards. Then make a gesso-plus mix of equal parts of that color paint, white glue, water, and your choice of sandpaper, plaster of Paris, borax, sand OR one of the many other additives you see on Hometalk or Pinterest. Stir very well and paint your mixture on top of the primer you already did. Want more texture? Whip up the same or a different batch and paint that on until you get what you already envision. Seal when you are through with the baseboards and the new shelves you will decide to add, so that cleaning is easier. Enjoy your new wall! 🤶🏻