Easy Wall Wainscoting Wall Decor Project-Update Any Room to Elegant

Easy Wall Wainscoting Wall Decor Project. I wanted to do wainscoting wall decor in my dining room, but I was afraid to tackle the job. I feared making miter corners that would be lopsided and look amateur. I was searching the internet for wall decoration and it came to me that I could achieve the look I wanted the easy way. I searched E-bay and found 20" x 20" ceiling panels for my wall decor. These lightweight panels are made of Styrofoam and weigh less than an ounce. I purchased white ones and didn't want an adhesive that would show through the thin panel. I decided to try tacky glue (craft glue), and to my surprise, it stuck tight with no movement while drying. The following day I checked my work and made a cardboard template measuring from the floor molding to the panel; I determined the distance between panels for my wall decoration and made a small mark on the wall to ensure each one was correctly spaced.

My father always says, " Measure twice and cut once." I always follow his advice. It not only saves wasted material, but it also saves time. The more accurately you measure, the more professional the finished product will look. I hope you attempt this project when you decide to update any room in your home.

The panel before painting

Notice that the panels are fragile and can be cut with scissors if needed. In the previous photo, one of the panels required to be over an electric plug. I used a new sharp razor knife after the panel glue dried to the wall. I could easily see the raised area from the front of the board. First, press around the plug socket to make an impression on the soft Styrofoam. Then I make a small square cut into the center of the image. I could then see exactly where the panel needed the attachment. Finally, I purchased a new cover for the outlet, which I kept close to ensure I wasn't cutting too much.

This picture shows you how lightweight the panel is and the difference in color before painting; I might also mention that the board comes in various colors. They range from about $1.00 and up depending on the design's fancy and intricate. There are so many beautiful designs to choose from to complement your design.

If you are uncomfortable with pressing the panel into the foam, you can always use are tape measure to accurately determine where to make cuts. Each time you cut into a panel you are one step closer to completion. I really enjoy decorating my house and raising the value with simple updates.

If you are unsure or you are not confident in your skills you might want to consider hiring someone to assist you in this project. A handy man or friend might be the perfect choice for the job,.

A close-up of one of the panels after gluing and painting it. I used latex satin paint. The coverage was excellent. It is entirely covered in a single coat. I put two coats on them to give them extra durability in case they need to be cleaned.

I brushed the paint with a 2-inch brush and smoothed it with a 2-inch roller. The roller gave it a fine texture and hid all the brush marks. I also purchased chair rail molding and ceiling molding made of a plastic material with a foam core. It was easy to cut with a hand miter saw, and the gaps and nail holes were filled with caulking.

Here are some of the products that I used for this project. I have found that the better the quality tools provide me with high-quality results. I used to use whatever I could find in my husband's tool chest. Now I have my own devices for my personal use. I highly recommend Stanley Tools.

Very little skill is needed to do this project. You will have a professional looking room when you complete this project and save a lot of money. Who knows you may even learn some skills you can use for another design challenge.