How to paint a wall two colours

Why choose one colour when you can have two? The possibilities and colour combinations are endless when you think outside the box. And we're not just talking horizontal lines, try geometric patterns for a real show-stopper. With this easy to do project, your walls will be Instagram ready by bedtime!

A stylish hallway featuring a two-tone painted wall, with navy blue on the lower half and light grey on the upper half. A small side table sits against the wall, accompanied by a circular mirror hanging above it, adding a decorative touch.

Project shopping list

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Materials	Tools	Safety
Walls & ceilings paint	Paint brush	Goggles
Masking tape	Roller & tray	Gloves
Painters tape	Spirit level

Step 1

Before you begin painting your walls, you’ll need to make sure the surfaces are properly prepared, so you’re left with a finish to be proud of. Take a look at our ‘Prepping your walls for painting’ article to find out how to do this.

Step 2

The first job is applying the lighter colour to the entire wall. Stir the paint thoroughly with a paint stirrer, if you don't have one then you can use an alternative like a chop stick or wooden spoon.

Start by cutting into the edges with a paint brush - cutting in is where use a paint brush to paint areas that are too tight for rollers (such as at corners or the trim). This part needs precision, so take your time to get a nice clean finish. As you don't need to load up your brush, try tipping a little paint into a small container to prevent it from dripping.

Using a paint roller to apply paint to a wall in an "M" motion for even coverage and a smooth finish.

Step 3

Now you need to fill in the larger areas using a roller. Apply the paint in an M or W motion.

Brush out any drops immediately to avoid an uneven finish.

Now allow the paint to dry.

Step 4

Repeat the painting process for a second coat.

Person holding a tape measure against the wall to measure the height where the second colour will be painted.

Step 5

Mark on your wall, using a measuring tape and pencil, where you want your second colour to be, whether that's a geometric shape, or half of the wall.

Extend the line using a spirit level to keep it straight.

Person applying a horizontal line of masking tape to a wall, using one hand to unroll the tape and the other to press it firmly into place.

Step 6

Run a line of masking tape flush above the pencil line.

Smooth the tape down thoroughly to prevent your paint colours from bleeding.

Using a paintbrush to carefully cut in the paint along the edges of a wall, ensuring clean lines where the area has been protected with masking tape.

Step 7

Start by cutting in with a paint brush as before.

Paint along the line, slightly overlapping the masking tape.

Use a roller to fill in the larger areas and allow it to dry.

Apply a second coat of the darker colour if you need to when the first coat is dry. Remove the masking tape and allow it to dry fully.