DIY: Paint a Colour-Block Stripe Wall in a Weekend

A stripe wall is the fastest way to turn a forgettable corner into the best spot in the house. We painted ours behind a desk, and video calls have never looked better.

You’ll need

• 4–5 sample pots in colours that clash just enough
• A 5 cm angled brush and a small roller
• A pencil, a spirit level and a long ruler
• Decorator’s caulk (optional, for crisp tape lines)

1. Pick a palette with one anchor

Choose one dark colour (cobalt or forest green) to anchor the wall, then add three brights. Test them side by side on a piece of card before committing.

2. Mark your stripes

Use the level to draw light vertical guide lines. Vary the widths — 10, 15 and 20 cm stripes look more playful than identical ones.

3. Brush, don’t tape

For a hand-painted look, skip the tape and paint each stripe freehand with the angled brush. Slightly wobbly edges are the point. Prefer it crisp? Tape, run a thin line of caulk along the edge, then paint.

4. Two coats, patience in between

Brights usually need two coats. Wait at least four hours between them, and paint lighter colours before darker ones.

Renting?

Ask first, keep the original wall colour written down, and stick to sample pots — a repaint back to white is one afternoon’s work.