How to create a panelled wall effect

• decorative moulding

• a few large sheets of paper

• some chalk

• a tape measure

• a small hacksaw

• a mitre box

• a paint colour for the moulding

• a nail-substitute adhesive to attach the moulding to the wall.

We recommend using large sheets of paper to sketch out the size and shape of the panels that you want to create. Use masking tape to stick them on the wall – this way, you can move them around and get a good idea of how they’ll look in the space.

Rectangular panels are easiest, but if you feel confident, you could recreate the cutaway corners seen in the image here.

Using chalk and a tape measure, mark out where you want your panels to be positioned on the wall. You might find it helpful to use a spirit level and plumbline to ensure the edges are level and straight.

If you tape over your chalk lines with low-tack masking tape, you’ll have a clear idea of what they’ll look like.

You can purchase this in a range of different shapes and sizes from DIY, wood or specialist hardware shops.

Once you’ve bought your moulding and are ready to start, use a small hacksaw and mitre box to cut your moulding at a 45 degree angle. Lightly sand them down, so that you create a neat corner where two pieces meet.

The colour you choose to paint your moulding will influence the kind of mood that you create in the space. To emulate the look of a beautiful French country house, crisp white is a great colour to choose.

If you would like to create a bolder look, you could try painting your mouldings a brigher colour and pairing them with a neutral wall.

When the paint is dry, fix your moulding to the wall with a nail-substitute adhesive – the type that is available in a tube with a nozzle for accurate application.

Your new moulding will take at least 24 hours to dry properly.