Create decorative wall panels with mouldings

1.1    Fill all cracks and holes.

1.2    Clean the wall, and apply a coat of primer.

1.3    Measure the height and width of the wall.

1.4    Make a scale diagram to help visualize the wall grid.
Your grid will include the inner and outer framed panels. The gap between the inner and outer panels should ideally be 3 ½", and the same for all panels. The design of your panels will determine the size of the inside corners.

1.5    Make a template for cutting the inside corners to ensure consistency between panels.

1.6    Once you have chosen your design, tape your plan to the wall with masking tape so you can visualize the result.

1.7    Use a pencil to indicate the location of the outside corners of the panels.

2.1    Cut all mouldings at 45o angles according to the measurements previously determined.

2.2    Sand edges and corners.

3.1    Use the template for the corner cut.
If you have chosen narrow moulding for wide and high panels, glue the mouldings with wood glue or adhesive directly onto the wall. If your design calls for smaller panels, it is preferable to assemble the frames first, and then to install them on the wall. This way, you will ensure the panels are square.

3.2    Make sure the panels are straight and square.

3.3    Use finishing nails to secure the frames to the wall.
If you are using a hammer, take care not to overdrive your nails. Nail heads should be left to protrude 1/16", then countersink with a nail set. A pneumatic nailer makes the job easier and faster.

3.4    Install the moulding for the outer panels, making sure the distance between the inner and outer panels is consistent.

4.1    Use filler to fill all nail holes.
You can use a small trowel for this task, but it’s a lot simpler to simply use your fingers.

4.2    For a more attractive finish, run a bead of latex sealant to close the gaps between the mouldings and the wall, as well as in the panel corners.

4.3    Let dry, then sand.

4.4    Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

4.5    Use a paintbrush to paint your mouldings to ensure you cover the entire surface.

4.6    Paint the walls.

4.7    Glue the wallpaper.