Learn how to plan and make a DIY herringbone accent wall. Our five-step process can help you transform a boring wall into an eye-catching accent wall.
How to Plan a DIY Accent Wall
Are you wanting to transform a boring wall into an eye-catching, beautiful wall? We have an accent wall idea for you to consider. Recently, I made a DIY accent wall in my kitchen, with my husband. We made it with a herringbone pattern and it turned out great! What was previously a plain wall, has been transformed into a charming herringbone accent wall.
If you are wanting to make your own herringbone accent wall at home, you will need to start with your list of items needed to start your project. We made a list below that I used to make the accent wall in our kitchen. I hope this helps you!
Board and Batten Accent Wall
Supply List (Tools):
Supply List (Materials):
- x16 1/4″ x 1 3/8″ x 12′ trim boards
- White caulk
- 18 gauge finishing nails
- DryDex spackling
- Sanding block medium
- Tack cloth
- Frog tape
- One gallon of paint (your color preference)
Step 1: Frame the Wall
Place one full length board snug in the right top corner of your wall. Install the board with finishing nails. Next, measure the distance from the end of that board to the left side of the wall. Then, cut a piece to fit that space. Like the first piece, install it snug to the ceiling. Repeat this process to complete the framing of the wall.
Step 2: Add Vertical Boards
First, you need to measure the entire length of the wall and divide it in half. The center point should be where the middle of your first vertical board should be installed. Second, measure the distance between the horizontal boards and cut your first vertical board to be installed. Trim down the vertical board so it’s snug between your baseboard and the ceiling board you installed in step one.
Measure the distance between the middle board and the right side of the wall. This should be the middle point for your next vertical board. Then, repeat this step on the left side, until all of your vertical boards are installed.
Step 3: Add Angled Boards (for Herringbone Pattern)
Take a new board and cut a 30 degree angle at one end of it. Next, place the cut side of the board flush to one of your vertical boards. Then, mark where it hits the next vertical board. Finally, cut and dry fit this board to make sure it hits both ends snug.
Make your template spacer board. Choose your desired spacing between the angled boards. If the spacing of your vertical boards is accurate, you should be able to take the board from step three and use it as a template to make all of the boards the same exact size. For the boards where the angle is backwards, take the first template board and flip it over.
When you get to the top, place your 30 degree angled board where it should be placed. Draw a line where the board hits the ceiling and make a cut.
Step 4: Prepare the Wall for Painting
Fill all of the seams and nail holes with plastic wood filler or DryDex spackling. Please note that you will need to have spackling wherever you don’t want a seam to show. Use your sanding block to sand the spackle. Run a bead of caulk between the sides of the trim and wall. Use your finger and push to smooth the bead in order to get a finished look. Wipe down any dust on the wall and vacuum the floor. Tape around the trim of the wall frame.
Step 5: Paint the Wall
Now you’re ready to paint your herringbone wall. Use a roller (size of your choice) and/or brush to paint the wall. Use whatever paint applicator that you desire to get your end result.
Conclusion
You now have the five steps to make a herringbone accent wall. You can definitely make variations to our steps above. Your wall probably isn’t the same size as ours, so you won’t have the exact same results.
Stick around for other great planning blog posts!
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