Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

What is a Mural?

A wall mural is a piece of artwork applied directly to a wall, typically using paint. Wall murals can be placed on interior or exterior walls of a home. From grafitti to fine art, there are many mural styles and techniques.

Wall Mural Ideas

Children in a playroom with a space-themed wall mural.

Mural painting has recently become a popular option for wall décor. Thanks to the powerful use of pattern, print and color, a wall mural can create a striking focal point in any room. Whether you’re an experienced painter or a novice, painting a wall mural in your home will create a wonderful decorative feature you’re sure to enjoy.

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Simple Geometric Patterns

A geometric pattern is a repeating pattern of lines, shapes and angles. This type of pattern is popular in teen bedrooms and play areas because it lends a sense of organization to the space and it’s fun. Creating a geometric pattern on your wall is a great project for beginners and those concerned about their ability to paint large surfaces by hand. You can create all kinds of patterns on your wall — from chevrons and triangles to lines and zigzags — using painters tape. Consider using primary colors in your design to brighten up otherwise dark rooms.

Tip

Before choosing paint for a wall mural, try paint samples before committing to colors.

Murals for Kids Rooms and Nurseries

Adding a wall mural in a child’s bedroom is a great way to make them feel that their room is special. Spark your kid’s imagination by painting scenes on their bedroom walls, like castles, forests or an outdoor market. Pair the mural with a play tent or themed rug.

Want to create a soothing environment in a child’s room? Paint the walls a calming blue with white fluffy clouds and rays of sunshine. Want something whimsical on your nursery walls? You can create the perfect look with self-adhesive wall decals. They come in a variety of shapes, including animals and insects.

Fun Accent Walls for Bedrooms or Living Rooms

If you think wall art is just for kids, think again. Turn your bedroom into an oasis with a wall mural and then add stylish lace window treatments and oil diffusers. You’ll never want to leave your room.

Want to highlight an accent wall in the living room or foyer? Try peel-and-stick murals featuring quotes or scenic images.

Things to Consider Before Painting Your Wall

A can of Valspar Signature interior paint.

Now that you have some mural ideas, you’ll want to follow some general painting tips before you start work on your wall mural. Here are some considerations to keep in mind.

Self-priming latex paint is a good choice for a wall mural. Latex paint is water based, making it the ideal paint for a wall mural. It has a slow drying time, so it blends easily and reduces harsh lines between dry and wet paint. Using paint with primer already included saves time. You can use water-based acrylic craft paint over your latex paint to create little pops of color or to highlight details.
When choosing which wall to use as an accent wall, you generally want to choose the first wall you see when you enter a room. Additionally, it should be symmetrical, not sloped, and solid, without windows and doors if possible.
Different wall colors can affect our mood. When choosing which colors to use in your wall mural, it’s important to choose some that’ll complement the rest of your décor. Be sure to check out Interior Paint Ideas and Color Wheel Schemes to learn more about the color wheel and the effects of colors on our emotions.

How to Add Patterns to Your Wall With a Stencil

Stenciling a wall takes patience, but in the end, you’ll be rewarded with a pattern that’s uniquely yours.

Instructions for Painting a Wall Mural with a Stencil

Dip your stencil brush into the paint. Swirl the loaded brush onto a piece of paper towel to remove excess paint. This will help prevent your paint from bleeding underneath the stencil. Using a light tapping motion, apply paint to the stencil. Before removing the stencil, mark a line with your pencil on all four corners to use as a guide for your next stencil placement. Finally, grab the bottom corner of your stencil and lift it up slowly. Remove any paint on the back of the stencil with a paper towel before you continue.

Remove any remaining painters tape from the wall. Reinstall any light switches and outlet covers that were removed before painting. Soak the stencil in a bucket of hot, soapy water and remove any excess paint with paper towels. Store the stencil in a cool, dry place for future use. Clean your stencil brushes using soap and lukewarm water. Continue rinsing brushes until you can rub the brushes over a rag or paper towel and the water runs clear. Blot off excess water and store the brushes with your stencils. Finally, remove your drop cloth and return your furniture to the correct position.

How to Paint Murals Without Using a Stencil

Painting a mural on the wall by hand is a great way to showcase your distinctive sense of style.

Instructions for Painting a Wall Mural Without a Stencil

Reinstall any light switches and outlet covers that were removed before painting. Clean your brushes using soap and lukewarm water. Continue rinsing brushes until you can rub the brushes over a rag or paper towel and the water runs clear. Blot off excess water and store the brushes in a cool, dry place for future use. Finally, remove your drop cloth and return your furniture to the correct position.

Creating a mural in your home is a great way to add an eye-catching design. Get ideas and materials for your masterpiece by visiting Lowe’s paint project library.

How to Paint a Wall Mural