Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Decorating Ideas For Paneling

Wood Paneling


Paneling can make a room feel dark and dated. Faux wood paneling can give your room a busy feeling. Removing paneling can be an expensive and time-consuming process. Decorate your paneling to give your room a fresh look. You can paint your paneling or decorate around the wood tones to incorporate it into your room.


Painting Paneling


Paint can tone down wood paneling. When the wood grain is gone the room may look less busy. The grooves will still show through. Paint your walls anything from a bright white, cheerful yellow or a daring blue.


Look to see whether the paneling is laminate or wood. The painting process is different depending on the material. To paint your paneling, first you'll need to clean off any oil or dirt. Sand the paneling down if it's real wood. Prime and paint the room.


If you have real wood paneling, you might white to consider pickling or whitewashing the wood. These processes will lighten up the space while showing the natural wood grain. For a cozy effect, stain real wood paneling a dark, rich color.


Retro Decor


Paneling was a popular item in the 1970s and 1980s. If you can't paint your walls, work with the faux wood grain. Infuse the room with bright, modern furniture for an updated retro look. Place a white shag rug on the floor and light the room with large ceramic lamps. Pay homage to the era that the paneling came from while updating the room.


Work with the color of your existing paneling. Retro paneling is often a medium wood tone. Pair it with a bright white for a neutral look. Turquoise works well with many shades of brown.


Theme Rooms


Incorporate painted paneling into your theme of choice. Paneling adds texture and interest to the walls. White paneling will make a room feel like an old cottage, perfect for a shabby chic look. Blue paneling will transform your room into an old country farmhouse. You can often find natural paneling in ski lodges or cabins. Accessorize your room with faux deer antlers and plaid blankets. If your paneling is in a kid's room, nursery or playroom, experiment with color. Paint alternating panels different colors; the paneling will act as built-in stripes. Choose colors that are close to the same tone so the room doesn't feel busy.


Artwork


Artwork can help you cover large areas of paneling. Paint your own modern art pieces on white canvas. Lean tall pieces against the paneling to distract the eye. Use a staple gun to cover several canvases with fabric for budget-friendly art.


Fabric


Fabric is an alternative to painting paneling. Hang floor-to-ceiling drapes to cover the paneling. Use this as an accent wall or tent an entire room. The curtains can be sheer if you want to tone down the paneling. Buy a heavier fabric if you want to completely disguise the paneling.

Tags: your room, wood paneling, your paneling, paneling will, real wood, room with, wood grain