deskwallpaperwalls
I recently stumbled upon a wall mural (I believe that's what it's called anyway), that I found after researching some desks. I would very much like to emulate this style of wall mural found behind the desk and computer. Could anyone tell me the best way I might go about re-creating this sort of effect?
In my personal opinion, it is always worth it to remove wall paper. Even if this one doesn't have a strange texture to it, it's always easier to patch holes or similar things later if you don't have an extra layer of vinyl to deal with.
Wall paper and glue can really vary-- some of it is a royal pain to remove, while others just peel right off the wall. I've had both in the same house. A spray bottle of warm water really helps. You might need to poke holes in the paper to let the water through; this tool makes it really easy to do so by just rolling it around on the wall.
In my opinion, your painting will definitely go easier with less hassles if you aren't trying to paint over vinyl. Of course, "the proof is in the pudding": if painting over the vinyl works for you, there is no overwhelming need to remove the wallpaper. It really is a personal preference; whatever works for you will be good enough.
I would avoid using chalk or charcoal for laying out the grid and/or sketch lines as it could cause finish-coat adhesion problems. Assuming this is a large scale project I would use a carpenter's pencil (hardware store) to lightly mark the grid and to sketch your design; no need to rub off as the paint will cover over the pencil marks.
Don't draw solid grid lines, use a straight piece of lumber and draw intermittent marks for the grid.
As for paint, it depends. Pre-tinted exterior house paint might be a good idea if large areas of the design are a single color (they can be duplicated with fair accuracy). If the design is intricate with many hues required then it would probably be more economical to purchase smaller containers of acrylic paint (art/hobby supply store) and mix them yourself (colors will not be easily duplicated though).
Large area brushes: hardware store, and do not skimp on the quality; good brushes= good coverage and finish.
Intricate design brushes: art/hobby supply store.
Best Answer
Photograph, large format printer, gator-board, dry-mount press, your favorite wall attachment hardware. The mural is panelized and the seams are visible in the image.