How to paint checks on a wall with Dulux Colour of the Year

The launch of Dulux Colour of the Year 2023, Wild WonderTM gives you the perfect opportunity to start a new decorating project. If you fancy a change from plain coloured walls, why not try experimenting with something a little bit different, like this checkerboard effect. It’s easy to achieve with our step-by-step guide and will make a dramatic statement in any room. Ready to get started? Here’s how to get the look…

Tools to paint a wall

What you'll need:

Tin of each of your chosen paint colours
Paint stirrers
x1 large roller and tray
x1 small roller and tray
Tape measure
Pencil
Scissors
String
Keys
Chalk
Masking tape
Spirit level

Step 1: Paint base colour

Apply your background colour first, using a roller to cover a large surface area. Allow to dry (this can take from 2-4 hours).

Step 2: Measure and mark the vertical stripes

Work out how wide you want the checks and the vertical stripes to be, then measure and mark sections at the top of the wall, making sure they are evenly spaced.

Step 3: Use chalked string to make a guideline

Cut a long length of string and, using masking tape, stick one end to the first mark at ceiling height. Attach keys to the other end to act as a weight, so the string hangs vertically. Cover the string with chalk and ping it against the wall to make a chalk guideline. Repeat for the other vertical lines.

Someone pinging a chalked piece of string against a wall

Step 4: Mask

Apply masking tape to the edges of your stripes, using your chalked lines as guidelines.

Someone applying masking tape to create vertical lines

Step 5: Apply paint with a small roller

Next, using a small roller, carefully paint your chosen contrasting colour inside the masked up vertical lines. Remove the masking tape while the paint is still slightly wet, then leave to dry completely.

Someone applying paint with a small roller between two lengths of masking tape

Step 6: Paint the horizontal stripes

Repeat the process you used for the vertical stripes. This time, secure your string at both sides of the wall, using a spirit level to make sure it’s straight. Then cover with chalk and ‘ping’ to create horizontal guidelines. Mask, paint and leave to dry.

That’s it! Now step back and take in your transformation.