How to Paint a Striped Wall

By: Jennifer Stimpson, This Old House magazine

Shopping List

Supplies You Will Need

1. 1-inch Delicate-adhesion Painter's Tape Double the total number of wall stripes, and multiply that number by the height of the wall to determine how much tape you'll need. A roll is about 180 feet long, and you'll need a roll or two extra.

2. Paint Cups with Disposable Trays Get one paint cup for each color.

3. Paint Avoid the need for a second coat by choosing a premium latex paint.

4. Drop Cloth

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Tools List
Tools You Will Need
- Sanding Pole
  fitted with 120-grit sandpaper sponge
- ¼x2-inch Stick
  cut to the length of the repeating pattern
- 4-foot Level
- Plastic Putty Knife
  to seal the tape before painting
- 1-inch and 2½-inch angled paintbrushes
  Get one brush per paint color
- 4-inch Roller Frame with Foam Covers
  Get one frame and cover per paint color
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Product Gallery
Product selections for this project
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man sanding a wall using a sanding pole and sandpaper

Photo: Kolin Smith

Introduction
Overview
Steps:
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1. Clean the surface

First, turn off the power, remove any receptacle faceplates, and cover each receptacle with painter's tape. Using a sanding pole fitted with 120-grit sandpaper, smooth the wall to remove any rough texture that could prevent the tape edges from fully adhering to the wall. Wipe the wall clean with a large, damp sponge and allow it to dry completely.