How to Panel a Wall: DIY Wall Panelling Made Easy

April 12, 2023

From traditional shaker styles to more modern slats, wall panelling is the perfect way to introduce rich textures and patterns to each room. And, luckily, it’s very easy to do.

While panels can vary in style and materials, the steps to add them to walls are generally pretty similar.

We’ve broken down how to panel a wall in five key stages, so you can confidently decorate your home with new wall panels.

5 steps to install wall panelling

Step 1: Carefully plan your panelling

To create beautiful, professional looking planning, thorough preparation is essential.

Of course, the first step is to decide which rooms to panel. But you also need to think about the styles that best suit your home’s interior design

There are several types of panelling available, such as shaker style, wainscot kits, and tongue and groove panels.

One factor to consider is whether the walls you’re panelling are in high-traffic areas, such as staircases and hallways. If so, wainscot panelling may help to protect the walls from scuffs.

Looking for more inspiration? Visit our Instagram or see our list of the top wall panelling ideas.

Step 2: Measure the walls

Once you’ve decided on the style and location of your new wall panels, it’s time to measure up.

Use a measuring tape to check the wall’s width and height. If you’re decorating multiple walls, note the measurements for each one, just in case there are any variations.

Double check the measurements, just to be sure. Panelling needs complete accuracy for a professional finish.

Unsure exactly how many panels you need? Try our wall panelling kit creator. All you need to do is enter your measurements and you’ll receive an instant quote.

After you’ve placed your order, we’ll create your bespoke kit, including all the wall panels you need. You’ll even receive your panels pre-primed, ready for you to install and paint.

Step 3: Prepare your walls for panelling

To get an even finish, it’s vital to prep your walls. Don’t miss this step!

Before applying any panels, sand down the walls using sandpaper or an electric sander. The aim is to make each wall smooth to the touch. This way, the panels should look neater once installed.

For particularly uneven walls (which is common in older properties) consider using panelling backboards. These create a flat surface, making it much easier to secure wall panels.

Step 4: Install your wall panels

Now for the exciting part: the installation.

If you’re using a backboard, apply this to your wall first.

Next, measure the walls and lightly mark where you need to place the panels. A laser level is useful at this stage to check that each panel is perfectly straight.

When installing the panels, start with vertical ones before moving onto any that are horizontal. This helps to ensure all panels are neatly arranged from the floor all the way to the ceiling.

Again, we suggest using a laser level to double check every panel is straight. And to secure the panelling to the walls, try No More Nails adhesive.

Step 5: Perfect the look

When the adhesive has fully dried, you then just need to complete the finishing touches.

Decorators caulk is great for filling in any gaps. Once dry, sand it down to smooth out any bumps.

If you use one of our wall panelling kits, your panels will come ready primed. So, you’ll be ready to complete the look by painting the panelled wall.

Whether you simply want to panel one wall, a whole room or even multiple rooms, these steps will make the whole process straightforward.

See more tips in our video below. And if you’re ready to get started, check out our full range of decorative wall panelling sheets.

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How to Panel a Wall: DIY Wall Panelling Made Easy

5 steps to install wall panelling

Step 1: Carefully plan your panelling

Step 2: Measure the walls

Step 3: Prepare your walls for panelling

Step 4: Install your wall panels

Step 5: Perfect the look

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