Little Miss Sunshine

Painting murals in your child’s bedroom is a fun and relatively quick way to make their space unique, while highlighting certain features of the room. In this case, the mural makes the bed the room’s natural focus, and the shelves become a secondary focal point. When decorating, give children a couple of Resene paint colour choices so they feel they have input.

Choosing a shape

When it comes to colour-blocked murals, organic shapes that are symmetrical are most pleasing. The best way to achieve this is to draw half your shape freehand (for example, the left side) onto cardboard. To get the scale correct, slot the cardboard behind the bed or shelf that the mural will sit with. Draw the shape onto the cardboard, leaving enough space around the furniture so that the mural generously frames it. Cut this shape out, and trace it onto the wall on the left side. Then flip the cardboard over and trace the right-hand side so it joins in the middle. This will give you a symmetrical shape that still has an organic feel. Using a small angled brush, paint around the shape using your chosen Resene paint to get a clean line, then use a roller to paint the rest so you get even coverage with no brush marks. When choosing the paint colour, think about the finish as well as the shade. You could use the same sheen as the wall or opt for Resene FX Metallic or the higher gloss of Resene Enamacryl waterborne enamel for a more stand out finish.

All things in moderation

When painting furniture in bright colours, it can be easy for DIY to look overdone. The best way to avoid this is to paint only certain parts of the item of furniture, rather than the whole thing. This gives it a bespoke feel. On high wear and tear areas, use a higher sheen paint finish like Resene Lustacryl semi-gloss waterborne enamel.

Stylists tip:  Make sure the scale of your mural is proportionate to the furniture in front so they look cohesive.