Revamp your outdated kitchen with a budget-friendly makeover! Follow our complete Kitchen Remodel Series for more inspiration.
Let’s dive into the walls – the canvas of our kitchen transformation. Our kitchen’s previous design featured a light peachy-pink paint color, complemented by a green vine wallpaper border that was promptly removed upon moving in. For over two years, the walls remained untouched, until we decided to elevate the space beyond a simple fresh coat of white paint. We embarked on a journey to install shiplap paneling, embracing a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic that steers clear of the “shabby chic” trend. The final result exceeded our expectations, creating a bright, modern, and inviting kitchen nook.
DIY Shiplap Paneling: Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- 1/4″ Softwood Plywood
- Table Saw (optional, but recommended for precision)
- Jigsaw or Router with Flush Trim Router Bit (for intricate cuts)
- Level (essential for straight lines)
- Nickels or Spacers (for consistent shiplap gaps)
- Brad Nailer (for quick and secure attachment)
- Electric Sander, Sandpaper, or Sanding Block (for smooth edges)
- Caulking Gun (for filling gaps and seams)
- Damp Cloth (for cleaning surfaces)
- Paint (choose your desired color)
- Paint Brush
- Paint Roller and Accessories
Important Note: While traditionally “shiplapping” involves creating a rabbet joint for a watertight seal (think boat siding), we opted for square edges in this indoor application for simplicity. We still maintained the characteristic shiplap look by spacing the boards evenly. Don’t be afraid to give it a try!
Prepare Your Plywood
Begin by meticulously measuring your wall(s) to determine the required square footage of plywood. Plywood typically comes in 4′ x 8′ sheets, so round up to the nearest multiple of 32 square feet to account for any necessary extra pieces. Next, rip the plywood into 8-inch wide strips using a table saw.
Pro Tip: Many home improvement stores like Lowes offer plywood ripping services, which can save you considerable time and effort. This service also ensures more consistent cuts. Be sure to check availability and associated costs based on your location. Before moving on, lightly sand the edges of each board to prevent splintering.
Locate Studs and Install the First Row
Use a stud finder to identify and mark the location of all studs on your wall. This will provide secure anchoring points for the shiplap. Using a level, ensure that your first piece of plywood is perfectly straight before attaching it to the wall. Proper alignment of the first row is crucial for the overall appearance of the shiplap. Once positioned correctly, use your brad nailer to securely fasten the plywood to the wall, nailing into the studs. Repeat this process across the entire length of the wall.
Note: Starting the installation at the top of the wall allows you to conceal any slight discrepancies or unevenness as you approach the bottom, where the baseboards will eventually be installed.
Maintain Consistent Spacing
With the first row level and secured, maintain consistent spacing between the boards for a classic shiplap look. Place your next board just below the first and carefully insert nickels (or your chosen spacers) along the length of the board. This will create uniform gaps between each plank.
Nail the board to the wall, again securing it to the studs. Repeat this process, using the nickels as spacers, until you have covered the entire wall.
Cutting Around Obstacles
Inevitably, you’ll encounter obstacles such as outlets, windows, or door frames. Use your table saw to cut the boards to the appropriate lengths. For precision cuts around outlets, utilize a jigsaw or router. Remember to sand the edges of the cut pieces to ensure a smooth finish. Stagger the seams between rows to avoid creating noticeable vertical lines.
Dealing with Door Jams
If you have door jams, allow the plywood to slightly overhang the trim. Use a router with a flush trim router bit to carefully cut the boards flush with the existing trim. This will create a clean, professional-looking finish along the exposed edges.
Sanding for a Smooth Surface
Once all the shiplap is installed, sand the entire surface to create a smooth, even canvas for painting. Pay close attention to any rough edges or imperfections. After sanding, wipe down the walls with a damp cloth to remove any sanding dust.
Caulking for a Seamless Look
Using a caulking gun, carefully fill any nail holes, seams, or gaps between the shiplap boards and the wall. This step will create a more seamless and professional finish.
Wipe away any excess caulk with a damp cloth. Allow the caulk to dry completely before proceeding to the painting stage.
Painting Your Shiplap
Begin painting by “cutting in” along the ceiling, corners, and floor using a paint brush. This involves carefully painting a narrow strip along these edges to create a clean, defined line.
Use a paint roller to apply paint to the larger, flat surfaces of the shiplap. Ensure even coverage and avoid drips. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next. Continue painting until you achieve the desired level of coverage and color intensity. To complete the look, reinstall your baseboards. (We skipped this step as we have another DIY project coming soon!).
We are absolutely thrilled with the final result! The shiplap adds a beautiful texture and depth to the room, creating a stunning backdrop for our wooden furniture and acting as a captivating feature wall. The white paint significantly brightens the space, beautifully contrasting with our newly painted black cabinets. The Scandinavian vibe is now undeniable. The process is surprisingly straightforward once you get the hang of it!
