Knockdown Texture is a drywall finishing style. It is a mottled texture, more intense than a simple flat finish, but less intense than orange peel, or popcorn, texture. Knockdown texture is created by watering down joint compound to a soupy consistency. A trowel is then used to apply the joint compound. The joint compound will begin to form stalactites as it dries. The trowel is then run over the surface of the drywall, knocking off the stalactites and leaving the mottled finish.