If you’re craving a home update that adds instant character, a herringbone accent wall is a showstopper. It’s one of those patterns that looks sophisticated yet feels handcrafted; perfect for transforming a plain wall into a statement piece.
The best part?
You can DIY it in a weekend with a few tools, patience, and a little creativity.
Step 1: Choose Your Wall and Pattern Style
Before you start cutting or painting, decide where your herringbone wall will go and what kind of herringbone you want to create. Each version gives your space a slightly different look:
- ⬥ Classic Herringbone – Each piece meets at a right angle, forming a perfect “V” shape. Great for a timeless, traditional feel.
- ⬥ Double Herringbone – Two pieces are placed side by side before angling in the opposite direction. Ideal for larger walls or modern interiors.
Source: MosaicMarble
- ⬥ Diagonal Herringbone – The pattern runs at a diagonal instead of vertically, adding a sense of movement and drama
Source: Pinterest
- ⬥ Chevron – Often mistaken for herringbone, this version has angled ends that meet to create a clean, zigzag line.
Each pattern can be achieved using wood trim, paint, or even peel-and-stick wall panels — depending on your skill level and how permanent you want the look to be.
Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools
You’ll need:
- ⬥ Measuring tape and level
- ⬥ Pencil and chalk line
- ⬥ Miter saw or handsaw
- ⬥ Construction adhesive or nails
- ⬥ Wood trim or MDF boards
- ⬥ Paint or stain (optional)
- ⬥ Painter’s tape and drop cloths
Lay everything out before you start. Prepping in advance helps you keep momentum once you begin marking and cutting.
Step 3: Mark Your Pattern
This is where precision pays off. Find the center point of your wall, and use a chalk line to mark your vertical and horizontal centerlines.
Then, lightly sketch your pattern using a level to ensure everything lines up evenly.
This will serve as your roadmap — especially helpful if you’re doing a double or diagonal herringbone, which can get visually complex.
Step 4: Cut, Attach, and Perfect
Now comes the fun part—bringing your design to life. Before you begin, measure your wall carefully. The pattern’s symmetry depends on precise layout and cutting.
The preparation process is the same, whether you’re using wood, paint, or stick-on tiles. To ensure your design turns out beautifully, do the following:
- ⬥ Mark the center line vertically from floor to ceiling.
- ⬥ Then, use a level and chalk or painters’ tape if you’re painting, to draw your first 45-degree guide line—this becomes your base.
For wood or panel installations:
- ⬥ Using chalk, continue marking parallel lines on both sides to ensure a balanced pattern.
- ⬥ Cut your wood pieces according to your chosen pattern, angling each end as needed (45° for chevron; straight cuts for herringbone).
- ⬥ Using construction adhesive or finishing nails, begin attaching pieces from the center outward using adhesive or small nails. As you go, check for even spacing and adjust where needed.
- ⬥ Alternate angles to form that classic “V” pattern.
- ⬥ Trim edge pieces as needed for a clean border.
- ⬥ For a clean, professional look, fill nail holes and gaps with wood filler, sand smooth, and finish with your preferred paint or stain.
For painted patterns:
- ⬥ Tape along your guide lines to create crisp “plank” edges.
- ⬥ Continue marking parallel lines on both sides to ensure a balanced pattern.
- ⬥ Paint one color first, let it dry, then tape and paint the alternating sections.
- ⬥ Peel tape before the paint fully dries for sharper lines.
Patience pays off here—small adjustments can make a big difference in the final look.
Pro tip: Lay out your pattern on the floor before installing it. This helps you visualize the design and adjust angles before committing to the wall.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Once your wall is complete, frame it with molding or trim for a polished look. Add accent lighting or artwork that complements the texture and direction of your herringbone pattern.
If you’ve used paint instead of wood, you can even combine tones — try a two-color herringbone for extra dimension or contrast.
Track Your DIY Project in HomeZada
Big or small, every home upgrade benefits from staying organized. With HomeZada, you can:
- ⬥ Track your materials, costs, and progress
- ⬥ Store inspiration photos and your final results
- ⬥ Set reminders for touch-ups or future projects
It’s an easy way to document your creativity and manage all your home improvements in one place.
A herringbone wall may take a bit of patience, but the payoff is huge—a stunning feature that instantly elevates your space. So grab your tools, turn on your favorite playlist, and get ready to create something special. By Sunday evening, you’ll have a designer-worthy wall and the satisfaction of saying, “I made that.”
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