How to paint a ceiling stripe in 5 simple steps

We all know that a fresh coat of paint can completely transform a wall. But using more than one color to highlight a space, or create a feature, will help you achieve a high-end interior decorator look that takes your room to the next level. An elegant stripe near the ceiling will bring definition and distinction to your space and it’s easy to do – just follow our step-by-step guide.

You’ll need:

• A tin of each of your chosen paint colors.
  We’ve used:
  E4.22.49 / 00YY 26/220
  A3.20.13 / 78RR 06/137
• Small paint roller
• Paint tray
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Ball of string
• Chalk
• Masking tape
• Paint brushes
• Scissors

Step 1: Choose your base

Fresh clean paint will work best as the background for your stripe, so now’s the time to choose a new color. We’ve used Spiced Honey, Dulux Colour of the Year 2019. For an instant preview of what this warm and welcoming shade could look like on your wall download the Dulux Visualizer app. Once you’ve applied your new background color and the paint is completely dry, you’re ready to create your stripes.

Step 2: Chalk up

First you need to decide where you want your stripe to be, then measure down from the ceiling and mark a few dashed pencil lines using the tape measure. Next, rub chalk along a length of string. Stretch the string across the wall where you marked the dashed line and secure it with masking tape at the ends. Check the string is straight, then ping it to leave a chalk line across the wall.

Step 3: Mask up

Apply two strips of masking tape – one where the ceiling meets the wall, the other below the bottom line of chalk.   

Step 4: Apply your stripe color

Using your roller, paint a stripe of color to fill the space between the two lines of masking tape. For a perfect finish, make sure you paint just over the edge of the masking tape. 

Step 5: Peel and reveal

Wait until the paint is still slightly wet, peel away the masking tape to reveal your stripe!

Not sure which colors to go for? Experiment with the latest Colour of the Year palettes with the free Dulux Visualizer app.