How to Use a Canvas Room Divider

A panel room divider can create instant privacy for dressing in an open space.

Canvas room dividers are inexpensive, two-sided artist canvases stretched over simple wood framing. The panels are typically 16 inches wide and 6 foot tall, with three to five panels per divider. The panels are hinged at the sides to allow the panels to be positioned so that the divider stands on its own. This type of divider is not sturdy and can easily be knocked over, but properly positioned, it creates a visual divider that can allow one space to function as two spaces.

Things You'll Need

• Oil paints
• Acrylic paints
• Paintbrushes
• Wall paint
• Painter's tape
• Paintbrush or roller

Instructions

1. Paint both sides of your canvas divider to match the decor and theme of your room. When possible, view the canvas panel as a three-panel or five-panel canvas. Draw or trace the type of image you would like on the canvas. Paint the canvas in acrylic or oil artist paints using paintbrushes. If you are not artistic, ask your creative friends for help.

2. Paint your canvas the same color as your wall paint. Allow the paint to dry. Tape a geometric design using painter's tape and paint your canvas with your room's accent color. This alternative to Step 1 is a simple way to color the white canvas and connect the divider into the room decor.

3. Arrange your room furniture so that each area has a unique function. A bed can be positioned near the outside window and decorated to work like a deep sofa. Place your television across from the bed over a low and wide dresser base. This creates storage and a lounge feel.

4. Position the divider away from the headboard area of the bed so that most of the bed is hidden. This allows the space in front of the bed to be used as a study area, desk or table. Position a wide indoor plant pot on the desk side of the divider to protect the divider from being moved too easily.

5. Place a second divider in the corner of the bedroom space to create a private dressing area. This allows the space to be used by two people for three or more functions with some degree of privacy. Use table lamps and headphones to keep the space quiet for people working on different schedules.

Tips & Warnings

• Dividers store flat and can be removed for entertainment or when the space is being shared for one activity. They are easy to reposition and enjoy.

References

• Contemporary Paintings: Canvas Painting Stands