How to paint checks with the Dulux Colour of the Year 2023

When the time comes to give your home a fresh coat of colour, the latest paint trends are always a positive place to start.

The launch of the Dulux Colour of the Year 2023, Wild Wonder^TM, means there are plenty of home decorating ideas for you to try. If you fancy taking your interiors in a different direction, why not add interest to your walls with a chequerboard effect?

While this might sound like a big jump from plain painted walls, you’re in safe hands with the natural tones of Wild Wonder^TM. Combined with one of its complementary colours, you can create a statement design that feels comfortable.

6 steps to painting checks

The chequerboard effect is easy to achieve with our step-by-step guide. Ready to get started? Here’s how you can recreate the look in your bedroom, office or any room that needs the magic of Wild Wonder^TM!

What you’ll need:

• Tin of Wild Wonder^TM and a tin of your chosen base colour

• Paint stirrers

• x1 large roller and tray

• x1 small roller and tray

• Tape measure

• Pencil

• Scissors

• String

• Keys

• Chalk

• Masking tape

• Spirit level
  
  

Step 1: Paint base colour

Apply your base colour first, using a roller to cover a large surface area. Allow to dry (2-4 hours).

Step 2: Measure and mark the vertical stripes

Decide how wide you want the checks and the vertical stripes to be, then measure and mark sections at the top of the wall, making sure they are evenly spaced.

Step 3: Use chalked string to make a guideline

Cut a long length of string, and using masking tape, stick one end to the first mark at ceiling height. Attach keys to the other end to act as a weight, so the string hangs vertically. Cover the string with chalk and ping it against the wall to make a chalk guideline. Repeat for the other vertical lines.

Step 4: Mask

Apply masking tape to the edges of your stripes, using your chalked lines as guidelines.

Step 5: Apply paint with a small roller

Next use a small roller to carefully paint Wild Wonder^TM inside the masked up vertical lines. Remove the masking tape while the paint is still slightly wet, then leave to dry.

Step 6: Paint the horizontal stripes

Repeat the process you used for the vertical stripes. This time, secure your string at both sides of the wall, using a spirit level to make sure it’s straight. Then cover with chalk and ‘ping’ to create horizontal guidelines. Mask, paint and leave to dry.

And there you have it! All that’s left to do is step back and admire your transformation.

For more paint inspiration and to learn about the latest colour trends, go here.