Decorative Paint Striping
Ideas and Techniques

Paint striping patterns are impressive all by themselves, but decorative paint finishes take wall stripes one step further...

NOTE: the basic how to instructions remain the same - you still have to measure, mark and tape as usual (see "Painting Vertical Stripes" and "How to Paint Horizontal Wall Stripes" for details). The only difference between "ordinary", solid color stripes and the ones shown here on this page is the paint application method.

Faux Paint Striping Finishes

Sponged Stripes

paint striping and sponging

Here's an example of the sponged off stripes. This elegant finish was achieved by applying 2 different color glazes over the base coat, and then using a damp sea sponge to lift the glaze off.

For a more pronounced texture effect, you can sponge the glaze on instead, or use more contrasting color combinations for the base coat and the glazes.

Glazed Stripes

paint striping and glazing

Glazing refers to moving colored glaze over a base coat, in order to produce a mottled effect.

You can use many tools to get this look - sponges, brushes, rags, etc.

This technique is most often used when the goal is to imitate the Old World look and feel.

Ragged Stripes

paint striping and ragging

Ragging results in a fabric-like or even leather-like paint finish. Just like sponging, ragging can be used to apply glaze on the walls, or to take it off.

For a truly understated look, go for low-contrast color combinations (just like they did in this photograph).

If you want more drama, contrast is your friend.

Colorwashed Stripes

paint striping and colorwashing

This decorative technique works best on wide, horizontal paint striping patterns (see the photo on the right for a great demonstration).

The resulting gradation in color produces a light, airy and almost ethereal effect. Stripes like these would probably look best in bedrooms, bathrooms and other "quiet" rooms in your home.

Moire Stripes

paint striping and moire

Pulling a rubber comb through white glaze gives this wall a rich, contrasting color and intriguing texture. This finish creates a stylized interpretation of moire, a textured woven fabric.

And as with linen, lighter pastel tints of colors usually work best here to keep the look from overwhelming.

Dragged Stripes

paint striping and dragging

Plaid is perhaps the most difficult and time-consuming paint striping technique of all. It requires multiple colors and several different stripe sizes. But if you add a faux painting technique to the mix, it becomes a dangerous combination for beginners!

Dragging is done with a special brush that is pulled through glaze to reveal the underlying base color. The finish can often resemble linen or denim, depending on the color.

Stamped or Stenciled Stripes

paint striping and stenciling

Ordinary, boring stripes can be really dressed up with some hand-made stamps or stencils.

The design for your stencil can be inspired by almost anything: fabrics, wallpaper, photos, architectural elements, or your imagination.

But whatever your inspiration, always err on the side of simplicity.

Metallic Stripes

metallic paint striping

Metallic glazing can be combined with any technique described above. The difference is only in the use of a metallic-color glaze rather than a regular tinted one.

This is a great way to give any painted wall an instant dash of class and sparkle without overwhelming the eye.

Want more paint striping examples? See "Painting Stripes on Walls".