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Painting
How to paint a wall or room: step-by-step guide
How to create a scalloped wall effect
Overview
Painting a scalloped wall is a great way to add colour and personality without painting an entire room. The curved pattern creates a soft, playful look that suits bedrooms, kids’ rooms and creative spaces. With some basic tools and a bit of planning, it’s a fun and simple D.I.Y. wall painting project that creates a big impact.
Steps
Choose a scallop colour
Start by choosing a colour for the scallops that works with the existing wall colour. A bold shade will create a playful feature wall, while a softer colour will feel more subtle and relaxed. Testing the colour directly on the wall is a good idea, as curved shapes can make colours appear stronger once repeated.
Decide the size and height
Next, decide how big the scallops will be and where they’ll sit on the wall. The scallop pattern can go to the top of the wall or stop partway up for a half-wall look, which works well behind beds, desks or storage. Larger scallops create more impact, while smaller scallops feel softer and more delicate.
Mark out the horizontal line
Using a pencil and a spirit level, lightly draw a straight horizontal line across the wall. This line acts as the guide and helps keep the scallops level.
Prepare the template
Next, grab a coaster or simple round template to draw the scallops. Measure to find the half way line of the circle and mark this with painter’s tape.
Mark the pattern
Rest the edge of the circle directly on the guide line and trace the curved edge above the line to form a semi-circle. Slide the circle along the line to the next mark without lifting or rotating it and repeat until the pattern is complete.
Paint the scallop edges
Begin painting by following the curved pencil lines. A small brush that’s easy to control works best for this step. Work slowly around each curve and focus on smooth lines rather than speed. Any small uneven areas can be touched up once the shape is filled. Paint the edges of all scallops before moving on.
Fill in the scallops
After the edges are painted, fill in the centre of each scallop using a slightly larger paint brush or a small roller. Paint from the edges toward the centre using light, even strokes. Allow the paint to dry, then apply a second coat if needed for an even finish.
Tidy up the finish
Once the paint is dry, touch up any uneven edges. Remove any visible pencil marks with an eraser and clean up around the pattern if needed. Then once everything is dry, put the furniture back. Keeping the rest of the room simple allows the scalloped wall to stand out as the feature.
Looking for another simple way to add colour to a room?
Our guide to creating kid-core trims is a great next read.
More D.I.Y. Advice
Health & Safety
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.