How to Paint Horizontal Stripes on the Wall

A long level will help you create even horizontal stripes.

The only difference between painting a horizontal stripe and a vertical stripe, is that with the vertical stripe, gravity is on your side. The preferred method for stripes or other painting features with straight, clean edges is to use high quality painter's blue tape. The problem is applying it correctly. With a vertical line, as you roll out the tape, gravity naturally pulls the tape to a plumb line. When painting a horizontal stripe, you need to keep your focus on making sure the line is a true horizontal. For this, you need a level--the longer the better.

Things You'll Need

• Painter's blue tape
• Pencil
• Measuring tape
• Paint
• 2-inch paintbrush
• Level (4-foot preferred)
• Rag

Instructions

1. Mark the wall lightly with a pencil where and at the height you want the horizontal line to begin. This will mark the lower edge of the stripe.

2. Mark where you would like to have the top edge of the stripe.

3. Measure the height of the top and bottom edges of the stripe. Make a mark at the same heights at the points your stripe will terminate for both edges. If the floor is not level, ignore this step. You will use the level to get a true horizontal.

4. Place the level even with the lower mark, and work your way across the wall, keeping the level horizontal, and drawing a line using the straight edge of the level all the way across the wall until you reach your end point. Repeat for the top edge.

5. Unroll a bit of tape. Stick it to the wall so it lines up with your lower beginning point. Work your way across the wall, using the lower line as a guide, applying the tape even with the line and leaving the area where you will paint the stripe clear. Repeat for the upper line, applying the tape evenly above the line.

6. Rub the tape vigorously, using the rag. This will make it adhere better. It will also prevent leaks.

7. Paint into the clear areas on the wall. Use horizontal strokes and apply the paint thinly. Don't put too much on at once.

8. Allow the paint to dry. Check the manufacturer's advice on the container for drying times.

9. Apply a second coat, if needed.

10. Carefully remove the tape.

References

• Ask the Builder: Masking Tapes