How to Colour Block

Bedroom in interior designer's home in Halifax with orange yellow and blue colour blocks behind bed

Colour blocking has been really popular in the world of interior design for a while now. It’s a really easy and affordable way of adding interest to a space, whether you’re doing a half-painted wall or a colourful, fun feature. So get your paint pots ready, and get creative!

What you’ll need

Paint - leftover paint or paint samples in your chosen colours
Paintbrush and/or roller (depending on how big the area you’re painting is)
Level
Pencil
Frog tape - yellow tape if you’ve recently painted or green if the existing (background) paint has been on the walls for a while
A credit/store card

Step 1 - Draw your design

Once you’ve decided on a design, lightly draw the lines for your first shape on to the wall. If the line you want is horizontal or vertical, as opposed to diagonal, use a level (I also use my level as a ruler). Make sure the lines look straight to the eye - if you have old walls that aren’t straight, you might need to adjust the tape.

Step 2 - Apply the frog tape

Yellow frog tape on wall in interior designer's Halifax house

Apply the tape, using the pencil marks as a guide. Apply just outside the pencil mark lines so that they’re covered with the paint.

Then run your credit/store card right along the edge of the tape, applying quite a bit of pressure to make sure it’s fully sealed.

Step 3 - Paint your shape and remove the tape

Now for the fun bit! Paint inside the frog tape.

Remove the tape while the paint is still wet. Make sure you pull the tape back on itself rather than towards you so that you don’t get any paint bleed. If you need to do a second coat, let your first coat dry for about half an hour before applying the second coat.

Step 4 - Repeat for your other shapes

If your design involves two or more shapes which overlap, allow the paint in your first shape to cure for at least 24 hours (check your paint tin for exact drying times) before applying the frog tape for your new shape..

And that’s it! A really simple and easy way to add personality to a space.

For more colour blocking inspiration, take a look at this open plan family kitchen-living space and this coastal kitchen-diner reveal.

If you’re starting a project and need some help or inspiration, please get in touch. I’m based in Halifax, West Yorkshire and I also offer a remote design service.

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