DIY A BOARD-AND-BATTEN WAINSCOTING

The trim and wainscoting in our Project House comes from Woodgrain. “We have one of the largest millwork operations in

the world,” says brand manager Lauren Persichetti. Here’s Woodgrain’s tutorial on how to create a feature wall yourself.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• Measuring tape

• Level

• Chair-rail wood boards (Woodgrain recommends their 1x4" 2EE)

• Baseboards (Woodgrain recommends their 1x6" 2EE)

• Wood boards for vertical slats (Woodgrain recommends their 268 Lattice)

• Saw to cut molding

• Nail gun and finishing nails (2" nails) • Tarps and painter’s tape

• Caulking (at least 2 tubes)

• Caulking gun

• Spackle, joint compound or wood filler • Paint of choice

• Paint sprayer or brush and roller

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

1. Choose a room for your board-andbatten wainscoting. Remember, “wainscoting” refers to any type of wall paneling that covers only the lower section of the wall.

2. Measure the height and width of the walls, and decide how high you want the wainscoting (consider outlets, windows and light switches). The standard height is 36" or 48" from the ground.

3. Using a level and measuring tape, mark the wall where you’ll place the molding to get a visual of how it will look. The boards of board-and-batten are usually spaced 12 to 24 inches apart.

4. Once you’re satisfied, determine how many boards you’ll need. Add 10 percent extra for waste.

5. Cut your molding.

6. Begin applying the pieces to the wall starting with your baseboard. Secure each piece with 2" finishing nails and a nail gun.

7. Apply the rest of the molding to the wall, keeping angles and spacing consistent. 8. Caulk all the seams to fill in any gaps. Then apply putty to all the nail holes. Remember to tape off and lay down tarps on the floors.

9. Paint the boards and wall of the wainscoting. Enjoy your finished project!