Stencils & Patterns for Walls

Used in repetitive patterns, stencils are an inexpensive way to create an interior design look.

An interior design budget can run out quickly, but it doesn't take a lot of money to achieve an expensive look on the walls. The use of stencils and patterns for walls can create unique designs or patterns, and these looks can easily be completed in a weekend. Many paint stores offer "reject" paints at a greatly discounted price, making projects even more affordable.

Diamond

A diamond pattern can be easily created using painters tape, by starting at the top corner of a wall and taping on a diagonal to the floor. Evenly spaced strips taped parallel to the first, with strips taped crosswise in the same fashion, will create a diamond pattern. Painting all or every other diamond will create the desired pattern. Size of the diamonds can be controlled with how much space is between the strips; the more space between tape strips, the larger the diamonds. There are also templates available for diamond patterns.

The easiest way to achieve a multi-colored diamond look is to first paint the wall with one of the desired colors, then paint taped diamonds a complimentary color or colors.

Stripes

A striped wall is simple to paint with painters tape and a level to ensure straight lines. Vertical stripes draw the eye from top to bottom, creating the illusion of higher ceilings, while horizontal stripes move from side to side and create an overall larger feel to a room. Stripes can be evenly spaced or several different widths, creating a more modern look.

Several different colors can be incorporated, or a more traditional look can be achieved by only painting stripes in one color different than the base wall color. A single painted stripe also serves as an inexpensive border or faux molding along the wall top or bottom.

Borders

Stenciling a border is far less expensive than a traditional wallpaper border--which requires the paper, adhesive and application tools. A stencil used in a repetitive fashion along the top or middle of a wall, and in a color different than the base wall, creates a border. This method is also easy to paint over if desired. A border can also be achieved by using stamps or sponges in a repetitive pattern.

Wall Art

Simple wall art can be achieved using painters tape or a large stencil and paint. Mark off squares or other geometric shapes, and fill with paint to create an art display. Shapes or other designs such as circles or hearts can be traced and filled with paint.

Cost

It is less expensive to paint a pattern or stencil on a wall than cover it with wallpaper or other wall coverings. Textured and foiled paints are also available, and create even more contrast.

References

• Martha Stewart: Stenciled Wall Column