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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touch up the stripes to finish painting a striped wall

Photo: Kolin Smith

Introduction
Overview
Steps:
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12. Touch up the stripes

Using a paintbrush, carefully touch up any gaps or overlaps. Create a clean line by holding the paintbrush at a 45-degree angle away from the wall, as shown, then press the tip of the brush to the wall and steadily guide it toward the line. Run the paintbrush along the line until the gap is coated.