Painting Stripes

Stripes look fantastic in the home - even if you are not one for big decorating statements, it’s a classic design style that has been popular for hundreds of years.

If you are thinking of adding some depth to your walls by including stripes, you can find a range of wallpapers on the market - but for a truly bespoke look, why not opt for paint? It can bring great results and what’s more, you using paint means you can create your own completely unique design.

As with all painting projects, there are just a few things to consider before getting started.

Colour and texture

This is the really big decision to make first - are you going for contrast? If so, combinations such as green and pink paint are very popular, as is a light green and dark grey. Or are you going for similar colours in different shades to add depth in a more subtle way? Another approach is to stick to one colour entirely, creating stripes with the different finishes – the eggshell paint will catch the light in a different way to the matt paint, creating a subtle stripe that changes over the course of the day.

Consider the space

Vertical, thinner stripes will make a wall seem taller and wider, while horizontal stripes will make a wall feel shorter - so choose the direction and width of your stripe carefully. Eyes tend to follow the stripes, so if you go vertical, make sure your ceiling is great, with all coving and features in the best condition. The same goes for anything that the horizontal stripes naturally head towards.

Measure up

You do need to do some maths before you start to make sure all the stripes are the right size. Measure the wall carefully so that things match up well.

Paint your base coat

Choose the lighter of the two colours you are using and paint the wall all over twice after prepping it to ensure it is clean, smooth and dry.

Draw out

Once the base coats have dried, draw out the stripes according to your measurements in pencil, using a ruler and a spirit level to ensure everything is straight. Place FrogTape masking tape along the outside of the pencil marks, to ensure the second paint covers them. Press down firmly, when secured it will prevent paint bleed.

Paint in the stripes

You’re ready to go! Depending on the width of the stripes, you can use a brush or a roller for the two second coats. The key when removing the FrogTape is to peel the tape slowly and steadily, pulling it back on itself, before the paint is totally dry.  

Have fun! Stripes can be bold and bright or subtle and soothing – but with the right consideration for colour, texture and overall space, they are always stylish.