How to Design Your Own Interior Wall With Paint

Designing an interior wall using paint is an exciting task that will give any room a touch of personal style. Whether you like contemporary graphics, striping or murals, the tools and technique used will often be the same. It is important to note that everyone's style is different, so each design using this specific technique will be original. Before painting, choose a wall that gets adequate lighting so as to make it a focal point in the room. Choose paint colors that either blend well or pop against the existing color. One way you can design a focal wall is by using a combination of ultra-gloss and matte paint in the same color.

Things You'll Need

• Sketchpad (optional)
• Ruler (optional)
• Matte paint
• Paint roller
• Projector
• Painter's tape
• Ultra-gloss paint
• Paintbrush or small roller

Instructions

1. Sketch your design in the sketchpad or on a blank piece of paper. This may take several attempts, but it is better to get the design right than to simply begin painting. Examples of designs are floral patterns, line illustrations and abstract shapes. If you have a pre-made design from the Internet, a magazine or a book, proceed to step 3.

2. Complete a finished drawing of the design. Use the ruler when drawing any straight edges. Keep in mind the dimensions of the wall; for example, if the wall is short and wide, make sure your design is short and wide.

3. Paint the entire wall using the matte color. Two coats may be needed for proper coverage. Let it dry at least 24 hours before continuing.

4. Project the design onto the wall using the projector. Move the projector closer or further away from the wall until you reach the desired sizing of the projected image.

5. Use a flexible painter's tape to mask out the design. Do this by "outlining" the design in tape. This will protect the existing matte paint already on the wall. If you are creating organic, rounded shapes and you have a steady hand, this step is optional.

6. Fill in the design with the ultra-gloss paint in the same color using the paintbrush or a small roller. Apply at least two coats.

7. Remove the painter's tape slowly, and let the wall dry.

Tips & Warnings

• A bolder look can be created by substituting the ultra-gloss paint in the same color with a brightly colored semi-gloss. Keep in mind warm and cool tones when designing a wall in a living space. Look at a color wheel before choosing paint colors to determine which shades complement each other.

• Do not put painter's tape on a wall that has not dried for at least 24 hours. This could pull up the paint.

Resources

• Projector Tips