With our kitchen renovation taking an abrupt halt, I needed a creative outlet to release some of my stress. So I opened up my cluttered paint cabinet, grabbed a tiny brush, and thought to myself, “why don’t I try to hand paint wallpaper on the wall today?” I wish I could tell you I thoughtfully planned this out, but I didn’t. And what I thought would be a quick few hour project, turned into a 5-day fast pass to a sore arm and crossed eyes. But seriously, the hand painted wallpaper turned out to be a success.
Step 1: Test out patterns (and colors) on a sheet of paper
Just like I did with my dot wall, I tested out patterns on a sheet of paper. I mixed Mouse’s Back by Farrow and Ball, and Wind’s Breath by Benjamin Moore to get the exact shade I wanted. I used to doodle this on my notebook as a kid, and so this pattern was clearly a no-brainer. Just call me Picasso.
Step 2: Put the pattern up on the wall
Next, I put the sheet of paper up on the wall to truly visualize it. And if I’m being honest, I wasn’t 100% sold when I saw it. But when I got a rude message on Instagram telling me it was a terrible idea, I knew I had to go for it and prove them wrong that this hand painted wallpaper was going to be amazing.
*cue the dramatic music*
Step 3: Just go for it
So I blasted my music, and I got to work on this hand painted wallpaper.
*just keep painting, just keep painting* (in my best Dory voice)
Be sure to stand back every now and then to be sure your flowers aren’t getting too big, or too small. Another tip? Make sure you draw enough flowers before dipping your brush back into the can. Just like I did with my dot wall, I love the texture the darker lines vs lighter lines add. Lastly, try to go up and down as you draw the flowers. That way, they don’t all look like they’re going in the same direction.
The hand painted wallpaper all started to come to life.
I mean, it was GORGEOUS, if I do say so myself.
As for how much paint I used? I covered a significant amount of wall space with just about a quarter of a sample paint can. Any tiny brush will do. If you want a close up look, and a ton of videos, check it all out on my Instagram. So what do you think? Would you try this out? Drop me a note below, or send me a message on Instagram. I’d love to know.
Best,
Deema
Feedback? Comment below, or email me: (Deema Tabbara Lopez) at prettyonfridays@gmail.com
this is such a smart (and gorgeous) hack!
Thanks Sandy!
Your creative talent is beyond measure. This work is a masterpiece!! Love seeing Ollie in the hallway. He matches.😁
Aw thank you!
Beautiful! Is this one of those “I could totally do this!” moments for me that is the start of my own 3 week disaster project? 😆😅
Do it!! 🙂
Beautiful! Can I ask what color paint your woodwork is painted? It’s lovely.
Thank you! It’s Seize the Gray by Clare Paint
I just love the way this turned out! You have such a gift for creating beautiful spaces on a budget but also for adopting such aesthetically perfect pup family members. I see you, Ollie! 😉
Thank you so so much!