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How to create a wood panel feature wall

By Bunnings magazine /

Nicely painted bedroom with purple walls.

Overview

Create a feature wall that adds interest from floor to ceiling. Using easy-to-work-with MDF lining panels, you can add visual interest by installing them horizontally on existing timber stud and plasterboard walls – check the manufacturer’s instructions for your wall type. Alternatively, add visual interest by running panels behind the bed horizontally, but installing them vertically on the other walls. Complete the look with a colourful coat of paint.

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

Steps

  1. 1

    Clean and measure the walls

    Clean the walls using sugar soap wipes. Measure the width and height and then, using a circular saw, cut the panels to size, leaving 10mm gaps at the top and bottom for expansion. Use a stud finder to locate wiring, pipework and studs and mark safe stud points on the skirting or floor with a pencil.

    Hand cleaning wall with sugar soap wipe.
  2. 2

    Apply adhesive to the panel and place in position

    Turn off the power. Using a caulking gun, apply adhesive to the back of the first panel. Starting from one corner of the room, place panel offcuts as spacers on the skirting or floor. Enlist someone to help you place the first panel in position, checking it’s plumb with a spirit level.

    Hand applying adhesive to back of panel.
  3. 3

    Pre-drill and nail

    At the stud marks, about 500mm apart, pre-drill pilot holes with a 3mm bit to avoid splitting, then nail. Install subsequent panels the same way, using the tongue-and-groove system to slot them together.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Drive the heads of the nails only slightly below the surface of the panel.
    Hand drilling holes in wall.
  4. 4

    Fill with timber filler

    Using a spatula, fill nail indentations with timber filler and leave to dry. Wearing a mask and eye protection, smooth with 180-grit sandpaper and wipe away dust with a cloth.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Panels are pre-primed, so there’s no need for sealer or primer.
    Spatula filling in holes in wall with timber filler.
  5. 5

    Apply paint to grooves

    Start by applying your chosen paint colour to the grooves in the panelling using a 38mm paintbrush.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: You could also use your roller for this step. Load it lightly with paint and slide it sideways along the grooves.
    Pastel purple paint in horizontal lines over grooves on wall.
  6. 6

    Apply paint to panelling

    Using a roller and pole, apply paint to the remaining panelling and leave to dry; apply a second coat. Keep the area well-ventilated for a couple of days while the adhesive and paint dry and cure fully.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Finish off the wall with skirting and a strip of beading.
    Paint roller applying pastel purple paint to wall.
  7. 7

    Keep in mind…

    • Before drilling into any wall, use a stud finder to check for wiring or pipework and turn off the power. If unsure, call a professional.
    • When painting or using adhesive, work in a well-ventilated area.
    • Always wear the recommended safety equipment when using power tools.
  8. 8

    Ready to get started on your own feature wall?

    Check out our range of Easycraft decorative wall and ceiling linings.

    Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.



    Photo Credit: Cath Muscat, Getty Images

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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.