How to paint stripes

Before you begin putting paint to plaster it’s a good idea to visualise your design first. For best results, plan your look while your furniture is still in the room because this will help inform your decision.

Like any paint job you’ll need your usual drop sheet, masking tape and brushes. However because we’re creating a straight line you’ll also need a HB pencil, an eraser, a calculator, measuring tape and a spirit level or plumb bob.

To make life easier, paint the entire wall in your lightest colour first. For step by step instructions on how to mask, cut and lay-off your wall refer to our instructions.

Using the tape that is masking the trim, measure out the width for each of your panels. For vertical stripes mark the tape across the bottom of your wall and for horizontal stripes mark the tape running up the left of your wall. Once these increments are marked, line up a spirit level at each point and draw a straight line upwards or across (depending on the direction of your stripes).

Now you’re ready to tape off your stripes. Don’t forget, your tape must run to the left of your line on the left side of your panel and the right side of your line on the right side of your panel. It seems obvious but it’s an easy mistake to make. Press your tape with a putty knife to prevent seepage.

Now for the fun part. Grab your brush or roller and begin painting your secondary colour between the masking tape. Once your second coat is completely dry, remove your tape at a 45-degree angle to prevent paint from peeling.

Now all that’s left to do is tidy up and invite your friends over to admire your new look.