Adding custom wainscoting is an easy way to transform the look and feel of a room. Burlap, if used the right way, can add an earthy texture to a room. As a bonus, it's also very affordable compared to a custom wall treatment or wallpaper.
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Do you want to eliminate all four walls or simply accentuate a bare wall? Rolled burlap is easier to handle when broken down into manageable panels. Panel seams will be covered with trim, so decide on the optimal number of panels and divide the length of the wall evenly. For example, if you have a 12' wall and plan on 3' siding, divide the wall into four equal 3'x3' panels. Now add the lengths of all the walls and add 15 percent for the residuals. Rolled burlap (easily obtained online) is often sold by the yard, so don't forget to divide by 3 feet per yard when ordering by length.
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For a partial height wall treatment, there will need to be a transition trim piece between the lower deck and the painted upper wall. If your room doesn't have a chair rail (an easy mid-height stopping point), then you'll need to install a horizontal trim over the top edge of the burlap. It will also be easier if you remove any existing base trim and reinstall it over the burlap. In this case, a simple 1x cutout was used and painted. Measuring from the floor, mark the final height of the burlap (minus cut) and transfer the line across the wall with a 4' level. Lastly, turn off the power to the outlets and remove the trim plates. Cut burlap roll into pieces that correspond to panel sizes.
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The wall color may show through the weft in the burlap. To create a perfect finish, take the time to paint the wall with flat paint and let it dry. To determine the correct amount of adhesive to apply (enough to hold the burlap but not seep through the material), do a test run. Then apply adhesive, working on one section at a time.
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Apply the first piece of burlap to an inside corner and secure with four staples along the vertical edge. These will be covered with trimming later. Working with an assistant and being careful not to distort the shading, gently pull the burlap out and across the wall. Slowly apply the burlap down onto the adhesive with a flat edged object. Maintain gentle tension on the burlap at all times.
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Using a utility knife, cut out any sections at the outlet boxes. Just remove the portion above the box so the trim plate will cover the burlap when reinstalled.
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Mark a new level line indicating the top of the cutout. Make sure the cutout overlaps the burlap by at least 1 inch; install with 15 ga Finishing nails hammered into existing studs.
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If the base molding is being installed over existing carpet, additional molding is generally not required. If the base molding is installed over a hard surface such as a wood floor, a shoe mold may be necessary to account for variations in the subfloor. Check the floor with a 4' level to be sure, then install the trim with 15 ga. Finishing nails, nailing to existing tacks..
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Be sure to measure each piece as the top edge may vary in distance from the base if installed on an uneven floor. Use narrow crown staples and construction adhesive to apply battens if they do not line up with existing studs. If the trim is being painted, seal all joints between pieces, being careful not to touch the burlap fabric. Trim can be primed on the bench and topcoated first prior to installation. Reinstall any removed electrical trim plates and finish paint or stain.
