Step #1: Plan out the Stripes

Precision and attention to detail are key to this type of project. Before you pick up a paintbrush, spend some time planning out your stripe colors and pattern for your wall. Generally speaking:

• Vertical stripes can make your wall appear higher.
• Horizontal stripes can make your space seem larger.

• Horizontal stripes on walls: Measure the height of your wall and divide it by the number of stripes you want.
• Vertical stripes: Measure the width of your wall and divide by the desired number of stripes.

Step #2: Prep the Wall

To prepare your wall for painting stripes:

• Remove all furniture, wall hangings and light fixtures in your project space.
• Cover your floor with a drop cloth.
• Inspect your wall for imperfections and repair cracks and small holes.
• Sand down any repaired areas and wipe away sanding dust with a damp rag.
• Clean your wall with a rag and warm water and allow it to dry completely.

Step #3: Paint the Base Color

Before starting to paint stripes, you’ll probably want to paint a fresh base color on the wall. After all, this base paint color will be essential to your stripe pattern.

• If your wall has been previously painted, you won’t need to prime it.
• Working with unfinished drywall? Then you should apply an even coat of Fresh Start^® High-Hiding All Purpose Primer and allow it to dry.
• Cut in your wall with a paintbrush and AURA^® Interior paint before switching to a roller and applying an even coat of paint to the rest of the wall.
• Allow your first coat to dry before applying a second coat of paint.
• Let your base coat dry completely—we recommend at least 24 hours of dry time.
• Need more details? Get help from our video and how-to guide on painting a wall.

Step #4: Draw and Tape the Stripes

• Measure out where you’ll place each of your stripes and mark them in pencil.
• Use a level tool (or a laser level) and a pencil to draw your stripes in a straight line.
• Use low-stick tape, also known as artist’s tape, for the stripe borders. Using regular painter’s tape may damage your newly painted wall. This step prevents wet paint from creeping beneath the paint and ensures you create a crisp, clean separation in the design.
• After you tape, apply a very thin bead of clear caulk on the tape line. Use a damp rag to work it into the line.
• Be careful to tape just below and above your pencil lines to ensure you paint over them.

Step #5: Paint the Stripes

Now you’re ready to paint:

• Using a paintbrush or a roller, apply an even coat of AURA^® Interior paint to paint each stripe.
• If painting vertical stripes, start from the top and paint downward toward the floor.

Step #6: Let Dry and Apply Second Coat

• Let the first coat of paint dry before applying an even second coat for each stripe.
• Remove the tape slowly and at a 45-degree angle immediately after you’ve applied your final coat of paint.