Wall Panelling Made Easy.

Wall panelling is one of the hottest DIY trends around—and for good reason. It instantly adds depth, character, and elegance to your space, whether you’re going for a sleek modern finish or a more traditional charm.

But before you start grabbing the glue and MDF, it’s crucial to plan and prep like a pro.

Here’s your ultimate step-by-step guide to wall panelling like a boss:

Plan Your Design

As with most DIY jobs, preparation is key to getting the look you want.

Start with a rough sketch. No need for architectural blueprints—just enough to visualize your panel layout. Decide if you want boxed panels, board and batten, shaker-style, or something totally bespoke. This helps you figure out how many panels you’ll need and ensures your design stays consistent.

Measure Your Wall

This is where things get technical—but don’t worry, you’ve got this.

- Measure the full height and width of the wall you're panelling.

- Decide on your layout: half-wall or full-wall panels?

- Factor in frame pieces (top and bottom rails) as well as vertical and horizontal panels.

Write down all your measurements clearly and carefully, down to the last millimetre. And always double check.

Materials

We stock a wide range of timber but MDF is a popular choice for panelling because it’s smooth, easy to cut, and affordable.

Make sure you get:

- MDF strips

- Adhesive (No More Nails is a fave)

- Nails (optional for extra hold)

- Caulk and filler

- Sandpaper or electric sander

- Wood primer and paint

Sand and Smooth the Wall

Before applying panels, make sure the surface is smooth. Use sandpaper or an electric sander to remove any bumps or flaky paint.

Apply the Panels

Now the magic begins.

1. Start with the "frame" base panel first, then the top.

2. Use a laser level to make sure everything is straight.

3. Apply strong adhesive to the back of each piece and press firmly onto the wall.

4. Add the vertical panels next, followed by the horizontals.

You can reinforce with nails, but if in doubt about what’s behind your wall (pipes, wires), play it safe and stick with adhesive. A pipe/cable detector is a must if you're planning to drill or nail.

Fill the Gaps

Use decorators caulk to fill in any small gaps or imperfections between panels.

Quick Note:

Don’t panic if some panels are a few millimetres short—just fill them with Polyfilla and sand smooth once dry.

Prime Your Panels

Priming isn’t just an optional extra—it’s the foundation of a pro paint job. Use a good-quality wood primer to ensure even paint coverage and a smooth finish.

Paint and Admire

Finally—the fun part! Once everything is dry, it’s time to bring your vision to life with a splash of colour.

From moody inky blues to soft blush pinks, the right shade can totally transform your room. Just be sure the caulk, filler, and primer are fully dry before you go in with your chosen colour.

And there you have it! your wall, transformed with your own two hands. Whether you’re dressing up a hallway, adding drama to a bedroom, or giving your lounge some luxe, wall panelling is a DIY win.

Feel free to share your before and after pictures with us on our social chanels.