How To Paint Stripes

Painting stripes

Cheaper than wallpaper and completely unique, painting bands of colour is a great, easy way to give your walls a bold new look. If you decide to paint stripes, this simple step by step guide will help you to get it right.

Contributed by Naomi Cleaver

Water-based acrylic emulsion paints in two contrasting colours
White paint, if your wall already has a colour
Standard paint roller and tray
Small paint roller
Metal measuring tape
Soft pencil
Spirit level
Low tack masking tape

Budget

Depends on paint. Rollers: around £10 for a kit containing standard and mini sized rollers

Time

An afternoon (plus paint drying time)

Skill

Easy if you’re confident with a brush or roller

Prepare & Mark Out The Wall

Step One: Prepare & Mark Out The Wall

If the wall has previously been painted in a strong colour, first paint it white to prevent the old colour showing through. When dry, paint the wall in the main colour using the standard paint roller and leave to dry. Then mark out the stripes, using the measuring tape to divide the area into vertical bands of varying widths. Mark them with a pencil line, using the spirit level to check that they are straight. Apply the masking tape inside and against each set of pencil lines, depending on where you want your base colour to show through.

Painting & Finishing

Step Two: Painting & Finishing

Paint the contrast colour. Use the second colour and small roller to paint the stripes, working from top to bottom. Do not over-wet the roller or the colour may bleed under the masking tape. Apply a second coat if necessary and leave to dry thoroughly. When the second colour is completely dry (and we mean completely dry - removing the tape too soon can mess up the clean line), carefully peel off the masking tape.

  • High quality acrylic paints will give excellent results.
  • Press the masking tape firmly against the wall so paint does not seep underneath.
  • Use low tack masking tape so that you can peel it off without spoiling the wall finish.

Comments

Search all of 4Homes

Be inspired to create your perfect home...

Search 4Homes product finder

How To Decorate

Cleaning Tips

kitchen sink

Remove stubborn stains with help from over 50 cleaning guides

Skip Channel4 main Navigation

Channel 4 © 2012. We have updated our terms and conditions and privacy policy. Please ensure you read both documents before using our Digital Products and Services.