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How to paint a colour block wall

By Bunnings magazine /

A close up of a wall in a bedroom using colour block interior design with two different colours.

Overview

Want a colour block wall inspired by the work of Dutch painter and abstract art pioneer Piet Mondrian? This retro-inspired D.I.Y. interior design element can turn any blank wall into an impressive feature wall. We have tweaked the concept by using fewer lines and a softer palette of Taubman’s Baby Bear, Designer White, Team Spirit and Bleached Leather colours for this bedroom makeover.

And it’s as easy as using tape and a roller – no tricky techniques or tools required. The black lines are lengths of painted timber attached with adhesive, making it renter friendly, too (with landlord approval). The colour scheme is bold but very liveable with the feature wall colours easily switched up to suit your style.

Tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1How to paint a colour block wall

  • Preparing walls: Start by giving your walls a thorough clean to remove dirt, dust and grime.
  • Choose your design: Sketch a design to scale on paper, and once the wall is dry mark lines on the wall with pencil.
  • Mask up: Mask off the sections of your design with painter’s tape.
  • Get painting: Once the wall is dry, apply two coats of paint of your chosen colour scheme to start your feature wall.
  • Remove masking tape: While the second coat is still tacky, remove painter’s tape carefully.
  • Timber trim: Prepare, paint and attach timber trim.

Tip: Discover how to prep your walls before you start painting.

2Begin by marking your design on the wall

For this bedroom makeover start by measuring the wall, then sketch your chosen design to scale on grid paper. Use a tape measure to mark the lines on the wall in pencil. Draw the lines using a straightedge, checking for level and plumb as you go.

A hand right with paint splatters holds a lead pencil and marks a white wall using a yellow measuring tape.

3Mask off sections of the wall

To mask off the sections, apply painter’s tape to the marked horizontal lines, checking for level and pressing tape edges firmly. Apply tape to vertical lines, checking for plumb and pressing tape edges firmly.

Blue painter’s tape making a cross on a white wall to start colour block design, with the roll of tape held by two hands.

4Start painting your colour block wall

Working on a drop sheet, use a roller to apply one coat of paint to each section, leave to dry, then apply a second coat.

Tip: Keep roller covers and trays for each colour in snap lock bags between coats.

 

A hand holding a paint roller rolls Taubman’s Baby Bear coloured paint on a white wall, with blue painter’s tape used for colour blocking.

5Remove painter’s tape

While the second coat is still tacky, carefully pull the painter’s tape away on an angle. Leave paint to dry completely.

Tip: Don’t worry if the line edges aren’t perfect as they’ll be covered by the pine.

Close up of a hand removing blue painter’s tape from a freshly painted wall that shows three colours

6Cut and secure timber trim detail to the feature wall

Mark the timber to length and cut using a handsaw. Sand cut edges; wipe dust. Apply primer and two coats of black paint with a brush; leave to dry after each coat. Run a bead of adhesive along the back of each piece and attach to the wall.

7Keep in mind...

  • Always use the right ladder for the job. Make sure it has non-slip feet and is set up on a flat, stable and solid surface. Wear sturdy footwear, maintain three points of contact (for example both feet and one hand) on it at all times and make sure another person is nearby in case you need assistance.
  • A platform ladder or scaffold may be a safer, more practical option when you need to have paint tins or trays within easy reach.
  • When painting, always wear safety equipment (eye protection and mask) and ensure the room is well ventilated. Keep all paint and chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
  • Paint colours may vary on application.

8After more interior design tips?

Refresh your spaces with this handy room painting guide.

 

Photo credit: Martina Gemmola.

Some advertised services and products are not available at some Bunnings stores, but products can be ordered.

•Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

 

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.