The trend for feature walls shows no sign of slowing down. They’re a great way to highlight a fireplace, show off a piece of art or just frame a stunning sofa. All it takes is paint and some elbow grease.

To help you get started Mitchell Kahn of Asset Allies, painting contractors in Jo’burg, has this advice.

“As with any wall, the surface preparation is the most important part,” says Mitchell.  “You have to have a perfectly smooth wall if you want a perfectly painted wall.”

READ MORE: Upcycling with paint

YOU’LL NEED

Paint scraper

Cloth drop sheets

75mm paint brush

Painters tape

100 grit sandpaper

Smooth internal roller

Paint tray

Paint in the colour of your choice

Primer

HOW TO DO IT:

1.Measure the wall and assess the condition of the surface. Your local paint store will advise how much paint and primer is needed.

2. Make sure the wall is completely dry. Peel and brush off any debris or loose, flaking paint. Smooth over and fill holes and/or cracks with internal crack filler using the scraper and allow to dry.

3. Spread the drop sheets over furniture and under the feature wall area. Always use cloth drop sheets instead of plastic, as cloth absorbs the paint.

4. Tape the border of the feature wall using painters tape. Stir the primer from the bottom to ensure that it’s properly mixed before using. Pour it into a paint tray. Use water based plaster primer for interior rooms as it has low VOCs (volatile organic compounds). VOCs have a strong odour and can be harmful if there’s no ventilation.

5. Using the 75mm brush, apply the primer around the border of the feature wall. Then switch to the roller and paint over the entire feature wall area, making sure to go over the original border brush strokes.

6. Allow primer to dry for at least 24 hours. Sand over any filled areas or imperfections to create a smooth surface.

7. Then repeat using the paint of your choice. Leave to dry for four hours before applying the second coat.

8. Once the second coat is completely dry carefully remove the painter’s tape. Using a small brush, touch up any imperfections around the edge.

View more from Mitchell Kahn and Asset Allies HERE