DIY: Customized Wood Panel Wall Art

One key component of my living room makeover was to create a new decor scheme. I've always liked a mishmash of decorating styles, so I came up with a fusion of  mid-century modern and Moroccan decor. When a DIY folding screen project didn't work out, I had leftover panels of wood. I used them to create customized wall art to fit into my new theme. There were a few things I considered in making this piece. I wanted an exotic yet subtle design. I didn't want the decor to feel overwhelming, both in creating it and in its finished state. The piece would also have to be large enough to serve as a focal point and to help visually extend the height of the room. Check out more info on what I used to create this decor after the jump.

The panels were previously cut with odd measurements from the failed folding screen project, but I summoned my improvisation powers to create the wall decor with both pieces. The narrow panel on top measures 16″ x 58″ and the bottom panel measures 32″ x 58″, so the total dimensions are 48″ x 58.” Because I used a lightweight wood (underlayment), I was able to hang the panels on the wall using upholstery nails.

To create the arches on the top panel, I drew them out on paper first, making sure they were symmetrical in appearance and measurement. For the borders, I used blue painters tape to mask off the areas and create straight lines. The rest of the patterns were painted on with the assistance this stencil set:

I used both interior house paint and acrylic craft paint on the wood. The background was painted with an off white (Behr “Silver Leaf”) and light gray (Behr “Silver Screen”). For the outer border, I used Behr “Pacific Sea Teal” and Folk Art “Metallic Pearl White.” This pearl white was also used over the gray for the other border and for the inside patterns. Once all the paint was dry, I used Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish in clear semi-gloss.

This wall art is a great foundation for the new modern/Moroccan style in my living room. I have more items that tie into this theme and will be sharing them later—be on the look out!

UPDATE: View the entire living room makeover here!

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