The Ultimate Guide to Wall Panelling: Styles, Finishes & How to DIY

Wall panelling has been around for centuries (it dates all the way back to the 13th century) and it is one of those timeless design details that never really goes out of style. Whether you love a classic shaker look or something sleek and modern like slat panelling, there is something so satisfying about adding depth and character to plain walls.

Wall panelling is definitely having a moment right now, but it is more than a passing trend. It is versatile, affordable, and surprisingly easy to do yourself.

In this complete guide, I will take you through:

• The different types and styles of wall panelling
• How to choose the right design for your space
• The best paint finishes and products to use
• A simple step by step wall panelling guide
• Answers to your most frequently asked panelling questions

What Is Wall Panelling and Why Use It?

Wall panelling is a decorative wall treatment made using MDF, wood, or lightweight mouldings to add pattern and texture. It was originally used to insulate and protect walls, and today it is one of the easiest ways to add a touch of luxury and visual interest to your home.

Why is it worth doing?

• Hides minor imperfections or uneven walls
• Adds instant character and architectural detail
• Protects high traffic areas like hallways and staircases
• Works beautifully as a feature wall or full room treatment
• Can be painted any colour to suit your scheme

Types & Styles of Wall Panelling

There are so many styles to choose from, which means you can find something to suit every home and personality. Here are some of the most popular designs and how to decide which one is right for you.

Shaker Style / Batten & Board

The most popular choice right now, and for good reason. Shaker panelling uses MDF battens to create a grid of squares or rectangles across the wall. Go full height for a dramatic statement or half height for a relaxed, contemporary look.
Getting your measurements right is key. A 9 to 10 cm batten width works well in most rooms, and if you need a little guidance, we have a full  youtube tutorial to walk you through it.

Wainscoting

A classic that never dates. Wainscoting uses decorative mouldings to form squares or rectangles, adding elegant detail to your walls. Once you have mastered a simple 45° mitre cut, you will be flying through it. If you want an easier option, try our NMC lightweight mouldings. They are simple to cut, stick straight on, and give that same beautiful finish.

Shiplap or Tongue & Groove

If you love a cosy, cottage inspired look, shiplap or tongue and groove is perfect. The panels slot together neatly, either vertically to add height or horizontally for a laid back feel. It is a lovely choice for bathrooms, boot rooms, or utility spaces where you want warmth and texture.

Wood Slat Panelling

One of the biggest design trends right now, wood slat panelling adds modern texture and depth. Originally designed as acoustic panels, slim plywood strips are fitted side by side, often with a dark background behind to make them stand out. Keep them natural for a Scandinavian vibe or stain them for a richer, contemporary look.

Geometric Panelling

If you are feeling creative, this is your chance to design something totally unique. Using MDF strips, you can create diagonal lines, chevrons, or abstract shapes for a bold, modern statement. It is a great way to add personality to plain walls and works especially well in living rooms and hallways.

How to Choose the Right Panelling Style for Your Space

The best wall panelling suits both your home and your lifestyle. Think about how you use the space and what mood you want to create.

Bedrooms
Shaker or wood slat panelling feels calm and cocooning. Try soft neutrals or muted tones for a peaceful feel, or go bold and colour drench for a boutique hotel look.

Hallways & Staircases
Half height Batten & Board or Wainscoting always looks smart. It adds protection in busy areas and brings character to otherwise plain walls.

Bathrooms
Shiplap or Tongue & Groove finished in a moisture resistant paint gives that spa like feel while being practical too.

Traditional homes
Classic Shaker or square designs in timeless tones work beautifully.

Modern spaces
Slatted or geometric styles painted in warm neutrals or deeper statement colours give a sleek, Scandi inspired finish.

And do not worry too much about getting it perfect. Panelling is forgiving. Choose what makes you smile when you walk into the room, and you will love it.

Best Paint Finishes & Products for Wall Panelling

Once your panels are up, it is time for the fun part, painting. The right paint finish will make all your hard work shine, so it is worth picking products that are durable and smooth.

Start by priming MDF. It is a porous surface, so priming helps seal it and gives a silky, even finish. My go to products are Zinsser Bullseye 123 and Tikkurila Helmi Primer. Both are water based, quick drying, and can be tinted to match your topcoat for better coverage.

For your topcoat:

Tikkurila Helmi

My top recommendation for panelling. Available in Matt 10, Satin 30, and Gloss 80, it gives a flawless, scrubbable finish and levels beautifully whether you are brushing or spraying.

Zinsser AllCoat

The ultimate multi surface paint. It adheres to almost anything, from skirting to radiators to uPVC. Available in Matt, Satin, or Gloss, and with a Class 1 scrub rating, it is tough enough for family homes.

Johnstone’s Acrylic Durable Range

A great value choice that still performs beautifully. Both the Matt and Eggshell finishes work on walls and woodwork, perfect for a colour drenched or seamless finish.

Leyland Trade Hardwearing Range

Another great contender for top coats would be the Leyland Trade Hardwearing Matt or Eggshell paints. Both suitable for woodwork and walls if primed correctly.

Whichever paint you choose, do not rush your prep. Taking your time with sanding and priming gives you that smooth, professional finish that makes the whole project look effortless. For more detail have a read of my blog here!

Tools & Materials You Will Need for Wall Panelling

• MDF slats or sheets
• Cutting in brush
• Foam and fluffy rollers
• Copley Decor Grip Plus Joint Adhesive
• HB42 Decorators Caulk
• Spirit level and tape measure
• Sandpaper and tack cloth
• Mitre box MB1 - For Cutting Coving & Panelling (depending on the project)
• Leyland Trade Hardwearing Acrylic Eggshell or Zinsser AllCoat
• Nail pins and hammer

Step-by-Step Wall Panelling Installation Guide

Here is a quick checklist to keep your project simple and stress-free.

Step 1

Choose your batten thickness. Cut a few samples and hold them against the wall to test the look. Around 9 to 10 cm wide works well for most projects.

Step 2

Measure carefully. Once you have chosen your design, mark your wall and cut your MDF. Accurate measuring makes all the difference to the finished result.

Step 3

Fix any wall issues. Treat damp, flaking plaster, or uneven areas before starting. Good prep saves you time later. Have a read of my blog on prep here!

Step 4

Start with the frame. If your design includes a border, fit that first using  Copley Decor Grip Plus Joint Adhesive and a few nails to hold it in place.

Step 5

Find your centre line. This helps keep spacing even for symmetrical designs.

Step 6

Fix your battens. Secure each one with adhesive, checking with a spirit level as you go.

Step 7

Fill and caulk. Fill nail holes and gaps with Toupret Interior Filler, then caulk the inside edges for a smooth look with HB42 Decorators Caulk. Sand lightly once dry.

Step 8

Prime your MDF. Use Acrylic Primer Undercoat or Zinsser Bullseye 123. A foam roller works best for smooth coverage. I would recommend Axus Lime Series Wood Finishing 4" Mini Roller Kit or the Axus Silk Touch 4" Mini Roller Kit.

Step 9

Paint. Apply your chosen topcoat, for example Leyland Trade Hardwearing Acrylic Eggshell, Zinsser AllCoat paint, or  Tikkurila Helmi. Cut in first with a cutting in brush like the ProDec Premier Cutting In Paint Brush or the Hamilton For the Trade Cutting In Brush, then roll in sections for an even finish.

Step 10

Final checks. Lightly sand any small nibs, touch up, and admire your handiwork.

My example: Measuring Spacing for Shaker Panelling

As you can see from your sketch, with five panels you’ll have four spaces between them. This is where the maths comes in!

I decided on a panel width of 9 cm after playing around with the tape measure and holding it up on the wall to see what felt right for the space.

Now for the maths bit...

• Wall width: 167 cm
• Number of panels: 5
• Batten width: 9 cm each
• Total batten width: 5 × 9 = 45 cm
• Remaining wall space: 167 − 45 = 122 cm
• Number of gaps between battens: 4
• Gap size: 122 ÷ 4 = 30.5 cm

Still with me?

Just to double check:
9 + 30.5 + 9 + 30.5 + 9 + 30.5 + 9 + 30.5 + 9 = 167 cm. Perfect!

For height, I went with 120 cm for the panels and 7 cm for the top rail, which brought me to a total of 127 cm. This lined up nicely with the window height and made the most of standard MDF sheet sizes, meaning less waste and a more efficient cut.

Carpenter Shopping List

• 5 × 9 cm × 120 cm battens
• 1 × 7 cm × 167 cm top rail

Top Tip: If you have offcuts available, use a 30.5 cm piece as a spacer when fitting your panels. It’ll make spacing so much easier!

Wall Panelling FAQs

How do you do wall panelling?
Measure, cut, and fix MDF battens or panels to your wall with adhesive and nails, then fill, sand, prime, and paint for a seamless finish.

How high should wall panelling be?
Half height panelling usually sits between 90 and 120 cm, while full height panels reach the ceiling. Use window sills or dado rails as a guide.

What paint should you use on wall panelling?
A water based paint with a durable, scrubbable finish such as Tikkurila Helmi or Zinsser AllCoat works perfectly. Always prime first.

What thickness of MDF is best?
Six to nine millimetres is ideal, lightweight but still strong enough for good definition.

Can you panel curved walls?
Yes, just use flexible MDF or lightweight mouldings.

Can you use panelling in bathrooms?
Absolutely. Use moisture resistant MDF and a mould resistant paint like Leyland Trade Hardwearing Acrylic Eggshell or Zinsser Perma-White.

How much does DIY wall panelling cost?
Typically between £40 and £100 depending on the wall size and materials, still much cheaper than hiring a professional!

Please don’t hesitate to pop us a DM on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok, or message us on  WhatsApp if that’s easier. You can also email us at sales@decoratingcentreonline.co.uk or give us a ring on 01388 655844 if you’d like some general advice.

There’s no question too big or too small, and we’d love to hear from you. If I’ve inspired you to give panelling a try, why not order a few of our samples to see which style suits your home best? Or start planning your colour palette with one of our colour charts.

Happy decorating,

Helen x