How to Paint Perfect Stripes on Furniture

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How to Paint Perfect Stripes on Furniture

Abi Hugo

Neutrals Stylist

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Stripes are such a fun way to add interest to a room or upcycle. They can completely transform a plain piece of furniture or wall into something playful, classic or totally bespoke depending on the colours and widths you choose. Whether you love a subtle tonal look or want something bolder, here’s how to get clean, crisp stripes every time.

Step 1 – Clean with sugar soap

This is the most important part of any project. If you skip it, you risk sanding grease and grime into the surface which can affect how your paint adheres later on. Give your piece or wall a really good clean with sugar soap, rinse it off, and let it dry completely before moving on.

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Step 2 – Give it a scuff sand

If you’re painting furniture, a light scuff sand helps the paint grip. For most projects, 120-grit sandpaper is perfect. You don’t need to go overboard - just enough to remove any sheen and key the surface. If you’re working on laminate, make sure that glossy finish has completely gone. For walls, you can skip this step.

Step 3 – Paint your base layer

Start with your lightest colour first - this will be the base of your stripes. Apply one or two coats as needed and make sure it’s fully dry before taping. Don’t rush this bit, as any tackiness will cause the tape to lift paint later.

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Step 4 – Measure and mark out your stripes

Now for the planning. I like to use the width of my painter’s tape as a guide because it keeps things simple and even. For example, if your tape is one inch wide and you want one-inch stripes, just alternate the tape. If you want two-inch stripes, lay two strips of tape side by side to create the correct spacing.
If you’re going for a more specific measurement, grab a ruler, pencil, and either a set square or laser level to make sure your lines are perfectly straight. Take your time with this part, neat taping is the key to neat stripes.

Step 5 – Seal the tape

Once you’re happy with your layout, press the tape down firmly to create a solid seal. Then apply a very thin coat of your base colour over the edges of the tape. This step helps prevent bleeding - if any paint does sneak under the edge, it’ll be the same colour as your base layer, keeping your lines crisp. Let it dry fully before moving on.

Step 6 – Paint your top colour

Now comes the fun part. Use your chosen top colour (usually the darker shade) and paint in light, even coats over the exposed sections. Two coats are usually enough for good coverage. Here I’ve used Finishing Coat to create a shiny stripe, but you can use any colour.

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Step 7 – Remove the tape

Once your final coat is touch dry, not dripping wet but still slightly tacky, it’s time to peel. Carefully remove the tape at a 45-degree angle, pulling it away from the painted area. Don’t let the loose tape flap back onto your freshly painted stripes. This timing is key for those perfect, clean edges.

Step 8 – Admire your work

Step back and take it in. Crisp, clean stripes that look like they’ve been done by a pro. Whether you’ve gone for soft and subtle or bold and punchy, you’ve just added a whole new layer of personality to your piece or space.

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