Panelling a Feature Wall

Wall panelling is one of the easiest ways to transform a room. A popular interior design trend, it adds texture, character and a premium finish to any room. In this quick and easy project, Ruth shows you how to install full MDF panelling sheets that slot together to form a clean, vertical design. It’s a fast, beginner-friendly method that requires minimal cutting and creates an instant feature wall that transforms your room.
 
Ruth also adds an optional gallery-shelf style picture rail to complete the look - perfect if you want a more traditional finish. 

Tools Used:

• Jigsaw or Circular saw
• Nail gun
• Mitre saw (if you need to trim panel height)

Materials:

• Water-resistant MDF or a panelling kit
• Strong adhesive
• Wood filler
• Sandpaper
• Caulk
• Tape measure
• Spirit level
• Picture rail (optional)

 

Installing Wall Panelling: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Measure Your Wall

 

Start by clearing the space where you plan to add the panelling. Measure the full width and height of the wall you’ll be panelling.

 

This tells you:

• How many MDF sheets you’ll need
• Whether you need to trim the height of your panels 

Step 2: Cut Your Panels (If Needed)

 

Most slot-together MDF panelling sheets come pre-cut to standard heights. If yours are slightly too tall:

• Trim the tops using a jigsaw, circular saw or use a mitre saw for an extra clean, straight cut
• Sand any rough edges before fitting to ensure a smooth join with the next panel.

 

Step 3: Dry-Fit the First Panel

 

As our houses are all different, and walls are rarely perfectly straight, you need to find the middle of the wall using a tape measure; often known as a plumb line, this is where you’ll start the first panel. Before using any adhesive, position your first panel against the wall. Mark the wall with pencil once you’re happy with the position.

 

Check that it is:

• Perfectly vertical using a spirit level
• Sitting flush with the wall

This first panel determines the straightness of the whole wall, so take your time, and measure it twice if you’re unsure!

Step 4: Apply Adhesive & Fix the First Panel

 

Once you’re happy with the position, apply a strong adhesive to the back of the panel. Press it firmly onto the wall.

Then secure it in place using a nail gun - this holds the panel steady while the adhesive cures.

Top Tip: Be sure to nail along the thicker parts of the panel to avoid splitting.

Step 5: Slot in the Next Panels

 

Slide the next MDF sheet into the groove of the first one. These particular panels are designed to interlock, creating perfectly spaced vertical battens automatically - no separate pieces needed.

 

Check the vertical alignment with a spirit level, then:

• Apply adhesive
• Press the panel firmly to the wall
• Secure using the nail gun

Repeat this process across the entire wall.

If your end panels need cutting down, to get a straight cut, use a circular saw with a track (if you don’t have a circular saw, you can use a jigsaw).

Step 6: Cut Around Plug Sockets

 

If your wall has any plug sockets, before applying any adhesive to the piece, you’ll need to align your panelling and draw around them, then cut these sections out using a jigsaw.

Step 7: Add the Picture Rail (Optional)

 

If you want a more decorative finish, add a picture rail along the top of the panels.

1. Measure the width of the wall
2. Cut your rail to size (use a mitre saw if you have corners to match)
3. Apply adhesive to the back
4. Fix it to the wall with the nail gun This creates a clean border and frames the panelling beautifully. 

Step 8: Fill Nail Holes and Sand

 

Once all panels and the picture rail are installed:

• Fill every nail hole with wood filler
• Smooth the filler with a finger or scraper
• Allow it to dry fully
• Lightly sand the surface to remove excess filler and create a seamless finish

This step makes your wall look like one continuous, professionally installed panel. 

Step 9: Caulk All the Edges

 

Use caulk to seal:

• The top edge
• The bottom edge
• Corners
• Any gaps where the panels meet the wall
• Around plug sockets

Caulking hides small imperfections and creates a clean, finished look. You can smooth any bumps in fresh caulk with a wet finger or use a specific caulking tool. Let the caulk dry before painting. 

Step 10: Paint Your New Feature Wall

 

Once everything is filled, sanded and caulked:

• Apply primer if needed (depending on your MDF type)
• Paint your wall in your chosen colour

This type of panelling looks great in dark, rich colours or soft neutrals - whatever suits your room and taste.

And that’s it - a full feature wall completed in just a few hours!

Final Tips

• Start with a perfectly level, straight first panel - it makes everything easier
• Check with a spirit level as you go - ensure each panel is fitted straight
• MDF absorbs moisture, so always choose water-resistant panels for kitchens or bathrooms
• Caulk is your best friend for a seamless finish
• Don’t skip sanding the filler - it makes the paint finish flawless and hides holes perfectly.
• Adding a picture rail is optional, but it creates a beautiful traditional detail and finishes the top of the panels nicely.

 

Wall Panelling, installed easy!

If you’ve followed this guide to install your own wall panelling, feel free to tag us on social media, find us on Facebook and Instagram.

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