Describes the appearance of coarse or heavy brushmarks in a paint finish.
Although mainly visible in high gloss finishes, brushmarks are usually in the undercoat or primer and may not be seen until the gloss finish is applied and when it is too late for an easy remedy.

Ropiness may be caused by using paint which is excessively thick as a result of age or evaporation of solvent.
Other causes include unskilled or careless application (especially of undercoats) or the use of brushes of unsuitable size or poor quality.  With water thinned paints, brushmarking can be caused by overbrushing or inadequate thinning, particularly on very absorbent surfaces.

To reinstate a ‘ropy’ surface, the paint must be allowed to fully harden before rubbing down, preferably with a waterproof abrasive paper and water, and recoating.