Welcome to the Dunhill Home Hacks DIY Series! Looking to add texture and character to a room? A shiplap wall accent is the perfect DIY project for adding rustic charm or a modern touch to your home. Here’s a comprehensive guide to creating your own shiplap wall DIY that will look amazing without breaking the bank.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essential tools and materials:
- Shiplap panels
- Measuring tape
- Stud finder
- Level
- Saw (for cutting panels to fit)
- Construction adhesive or nails
- Drill
- Drywall compound and sandpaper (for a smooth finish)
- Paint (optional, for a finished look)
We managed to get our materials for under $300!
Step 1: Measure and Plan
Measure the height and width of your wall to calculate how many shiplap panels you’ll need. Add about 10% for cutting and fitting around outlets. Planning your layout before you start is crucial to ensuring a clean look. For TV walls, consider where outlets and cable lines will go to avoid extra cuts later.
Step 2: Prep Your Wall
Remove any baseboards, outlet covers, and nails. To improve adhesion, clean the wall surface, and if you’re nailing shiplap, use a stud finder to locate and mark studs.
Step 3: Cut Outlet Holes
Using a saw, cut holes in your shiplap panels for outlets and cable lines based on your measurements. For TV walls, you might need holes for hiding wires through the wall. This step ensures a seamless look without needing extra tools or adjustments later.
Step 4: Install the First Row
Start at the bottom of the wall, aligning your first panel to your guideline with a level. Secure each panel using construction adhesive or by nailing directly into the studs.
Step 5: Stagger and Space Each Row
Use a nickel as a spacer between panels for the classic shiplap look. Stagger the boards on each row to create a natural flow and visually appealing wall. Reuse your nickel spacers until the wall is complete.
Step 6: Smooth Out the Seams
Once all panels are in place, apply a light layer of drywall compound along the seams, sand it when dry, and paint for a smooth, professional look. This is especially helpful if you’re going for a seamless, modern design.
Step 7: Finish with Baseboards
Reattach or install matching baseboards to cover gaps between the wall and floor, ensuring a polished look.
Step 8: Paint and Final Touches
Now you’re ready to paint or stain! For classic shiplap, white or soft neutrals work beautifully.
By following the steps of our Shiplap Wall DIY, you’ll have a striking shiplap accent wall that transforms your space. For more DIY ideas, subscribe to our newsletter, check out our Dunhill Homes Blog for step-by-step guides, and follow us on social media!
Photo Credit: Luminous Productions