DIY Project

Paint

Painted arch accent wall

A big painted arch behind a bed or desk that adds color and shape to a room with a single quart of paint.

Painted arch accent wall
LevelBeginner
Time3 hours
Cost$25 to $45

What you'll need

Materials

Tick them off as you find them.

Tools

How to make it

Safety

Keep the ladder fully open and locked, and don't stand on the top step.

  1. Step 1: Mark the center line
    1

    Mark the center line

    Decide the arch width, like 48 in for a queen bed. Mark the center and draw a light vertical line with the level.

  2. Step 2: Mark the curve's start
    2

    Mark the curve's start

    Mark the height where the curve begins on the center line. Tap the nail in there, leaving it sticking out.

  3. Step 3: Draw the curve
    3

    Draw the curve

    Tie string to the nail and to a pencil, half the arch width apart. Pull it tight and swing the pencil in a half circle.

  4. Step 4: Draw the sides
    4

    Draw the sides

    Draw straight lines from each end of the curve down to the baseboard, using the level.

  5. Step 5: Tape the straight edges
    5

    Tape the straight edges

    Tape outside the straight lines. Press the edges down firmly.

  6. Step 6: Cut in the curve
    6

    Cut in the curve

    Paint along the curved line with the angled brush, slowly. Steady your hand on the wall with your pinky.

  7. Step 7: Roll the inside
    7

    Roll the inside

    Roll the rest of the arch. Add a second coat after the first dries.

  8. Step 8: Pull the tape
    8

    Pull the tape

    Peel the tape while the last coat is slightly wet. Spackle the nail hole and step back.

Edie's tip

Hold the brush so the bristles lean into the line. Pulling toward the curve gives a crisper edge than pushing.

Written by the DIY Project team. How we check · Report a mistake

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