How to Make Your Own Decorative Wall Panels

Decorative wall panels are the most effective way to add interest to a room, creating themes that are cheaper than redecorating a whole room with new furniture. There is an unlimited number of ways of making and designing wall panels, they can be made of any flat material and any covering. They can cover large parts of walls, even a whole wall, or just hang like large pictures.

Step 1 – Measure the Wall

Measure the wall that you wish to hang these wall panels on. These wall panels will be four foot high and four foot wide. Decide the height you will hang the panels and how many panels will fit across the room with a gap between them of approximately eight inches.

Step 2 – Find the Wall Studs

Find the wall studs and screw in the hooks where each wall panel will go. Two for each panel 30 inches apart.

Step 3 – Cut the Frame Timber

For one frame (make each exactly the same size), cut four pieces of timber, two pieces x 48 inches and two 40 inches. Lay them together flat on the floor so they form a square. Screw the joints together with screws and the corner braces so the whole frame is rigid.

Step 4 – Attach the Fabric

Cut the fabric so that it will fit over the whole frame with enough left to be stapled to the back. Lay the fabric on the floor and lay the frame over it. Starting at the top, fold over the fabric and staple it in place with the first staple in the center. Staple across the top every 2 inches. Roll the bottom of the fabric around a spare piece of timber and pull it down firmly as you place staple along the sides alternately, making sure there are no wrinkles. Staple across the bottom.

Step 5 – Attach the Molding

Flip the frame over so you are looking at the fabric side and cut pieces of molding to fit around the edge of the frame. Paint the molding before you attach it if you prefer. Attach the molding with clouts or small screws.

Step 6 – Attaching the Picture Wire

Flip the frame over again so you are looking at the back. Measure inside the frame sides and place screws at the height you think the wires should go. Make the height the same on all panels. You can change the height later if necessary. Attach the wire fairly firmly to the screws so that the wire is inside the frame and the frame will sit flat on the wall.

Step 7 – Finish

Spray the protector spray onto the fabric side and set aside for at least 20 minutes. Hang the frames on the wall.