Corner Slat Wall Feature

We are getting closer to the end of another One Room Challenge. For week 7, I focused on the corner of Brock’s room by adding a slat wall feature.

The Inspiration

I had seen a slat wall feature in a photo, with the varying sized slats. I loved the uniformity of the spacing, but the chaotic nature of the ends in random form. I decided that corner of the room was the best place for this, and as a fun feature, I decided to go both directions, so there would be slats on both walls.

Prepping the Slats

If you’ve seen my projects before, you know I have a process. This one was no different. I started by purchasing 22 1x2x4 wooden boards. I cut them in random sizes–just varying them enough that there was varying levels. But, for each size I cut, I matched that size with about 4 boards (for each side). The side next to the window would be much shorter than the adjacent wall. 

After cutting, I arranged them, and then cut some more, to achieve the ideal look. I sanded with my palm sander and 220-grit sandpaper. To clean the wood, I used mineral spirits and a clean, dry rag. My stain choice for this space is the Minwax Aged Barrel. Applying with a clean, dry rag, I wiped on and then wiped off, keeping the boards from being “wet” or having too much stain. I found it helpful to wipe all the fronts of the boards as they were lined up, going back and doing the sides and ends individually. The final coat was Minwax Polycrylic. The normal application is at least two coats, sanding in between. But, since this is a slat wall feature, and I’m not worried about it needing to be “protected,” my reason for using a top coat was to cover the stain odor. So, I only applied one coat.

Installing the Slat Wall Feature

If you have a chance to visit my Instagram, you’ll see this installation saved in highlights. The hardest part about this was getting started. I needed at least three hands. Holding the first board in place–close to the ceiling, but not touching–I had to check level and nail in place. And, even though I had applied liquid nails, I dropped the first slat a number of times before I could get it in place. Then, once I finally nailed it, I had nailed too shallow, splitting the very edge of the board. Phew. This was a test in patience. 

The second board, meeting at the corner, was only slightly easier, lining up with the first, checking level and nailing. But, after that, it was a piece of cake. Using “spacing” boards that were 1×3, I was able to easily get the new slat in place, do a quick level check and nail. 

Was it important to check level? Absolutely. I didn’t do it for rows 2 & 3, and then I happened to check, and each row was slowly changing. So, I just made it one step of the process. And, I did both sides at the same time all the way down. First the right side, then the left.

• Add liquid nails
• Place spacing board
• Place new slat
• Check level
• Nail

Many of the items I use for DIY projects are linked on my Amazon Storefront–even if just for reference so you can get an idea of what you’re looking for. While many items are cheaper online, it seems like home improvement supplies can really get expensive to order, depending on what you\’re looking for.

The Magic Trick

In a surprise finish, the one thing I love most about this slat wall feature is that you can use little shelves–removable and adjustable! Because I made sure to fit that spacing board pretty tight as I nailed, that same spacing board can be put in place to create a “shelf” that’s able to hold decor. Because this is in the corner, I chose to fit them to span the corner and hold plants (of course). If you’d like to add shelves that fit along the wall, you just slide them in place, and they’ll stay!

I cut 1×3 boards, sanded, cleaned & painted them black. I added plants that won’t need as much light since this is a North-facing room.

What do you think? Are you ready to add your own wall feature? Let me know if you do! I’d love to see it. Get ready for the Room Reveal next week!