One of the alternative choices in Interior design that has become rather popular in the last several years is upholstered walls. This elegant yet soft look can be achieved relatively easily with few tools and minimum experience. Try this project in an informal den, home office, or in the bedroom. A luxurious boutique hotel look can be achieved by mounting the panels behind a bed as a headboard.
The tools and basic materials to make your fabric panels are readily available and inexpensive to purchase. You will need particle board for your base panel. This can be cut to size, free of charge, at any local Lowe's or Home Depot. Velcro can also be purchased at these locations. Soft poly foam to pad the base, and fabric to cover it can be found at your area fabric shops. Depending on your budget and style different looks can be achieved by using different fabrics. Clean, simple lines can be achieved by using ducks, twills, or canvas. Plush, full sumptuous looks can be achieved by using velvet or chenille. Damasks and suedes add a feeling of richness and have become very reasonable in price with the advent of new weaving technologies and fibers.
1) Measure and cut your panels. Remove any trim from the wall you are covering. This includes any crown molding or chair rails. Measure carefully and divide the measurement into equal sized panels. Take your measurements to your local lumber yard and have them cut your panels to size. Use a pencil to mark the locations of the panels on the wall.
2) Cut a piece of 1 inch foam large enough to cover each panel. Add 6 inches to the width and length to allow for working the foam. 1 inch batting can also be used. Cut your fabric the same size (6 inches extra) as your foam.
3) Lay one inch two sided tape along the edge of your panel. This will hold the foam or batting in place while you attach the fabric. Place the fabric over the foam layer. Place fabric side down and wrap the extra 3 inches of fabric on each end around the panel. Using your staple gun and 1/4" staples, put one staple in the midpoint of each side. Make sure you pull the fabric firmly as you staple. Work your way around the panel, pulling, flattening, and stapling the fabric into place. Be aware of wrinkling and creases as you work your way around. Meticulous work during this stage will pay big dividends.
4) Cut lengths of heavy duty Velcro to the width of the panels. Use staples and your staple gun to attach the lengths of Velcro to the back of the panels. Staple corresponding side of the Velcro to the wall. Hang your panels by simply pressing them into place on your walls.
Stand back and enjoy your new, sophisticated, elegant upholstered wall!
By Mark Mehler