DIY Shiplap Boards Transform Any Room's Style
If you're looking to add rustic character to a space, shiplap boards are a great DIY project. With simple tools and materials, you can create beautiful, textured planks that instantly elevate your home's design. From cozy cabins to modern farmhouses, shiplap brings natural warmth and style to any room.
We'll cover wood selection, tools, cutting the joints, installation, and decorating tips. With a bit of carpentry practice, you can build and hang gorgeous shiplap wall planks that transform your home.
Materials Needed
Wood Selection
The first step is choosing what type of wood to use. Pine is a classic choice for shiplap with its affordability, easy workability, and traditional look. Plywood is another budget-friendly option that comes pre-cut into panels, though it can be tricky to work with. For a reclaimed aesthetic, check salvage yards for old barn wood or fence boards.
Consider your project's style, budget and skill level when selecting lumber. Wider planks from 5 to 8 inches are typical for a bold, rustic look. Thickness around 3/4 inches provides durability without weighing down your walls. Distressed woods in gray, brown and white hues add gorgeous contrast.
Tools
Though simple in concept, high-quality shiplap requires some key tools:
- Table saw - for joint cuts
- Miter saw - for precise angle cuts
- Sander - to smooth boards
- Nail gun - for efficient installation
- Drill/driver - for screws and holes
- Level - to ensure straight boards
- Spacers - small items for even gaps
Safety gear like goggles, ear protection, and dust masks are essential too. Building up your basic carpentry skills will ensure success.
Other Supplies
In addition to wood and tools, have these supplies on hand:
- Wood glue
- Nails and/or screws
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper
- Primer and paint or stain
Good preparation with the right materials will make your project go smoothly from start to finish. Now let's get to cutting!
Cutting the Shiplap Joints
Setting Up the Table Saw
A table saw equipped with a ripping blade is essential for cutting the lap joints that form shiplap boards. Adjust the height so the blade cuts half the depth of your wood's thickness. Position the rip fence equally from the blade to the edge of the wood to center your cuts.
Refer to your saw's manual for specific set-up steps and always wear protective gear when operating. A steady hand and focused mindset are key for safe, precision cuts.
Cutting the Lap Joints
With your board laying flat, run it through the table saw to cut the first end. Then rotate the board on its side and pass it vertically through the blade to create a symmetrical rabbet cut into both edges. These two rip cuts form the distinctive lap joint shape.
Go slowly, holding the wood securely as you feed it into the blade. Check that your blade depth and fence position are creating even, consistent laps down the full length of each board. A depth guide block can help you achieve identical joints on every plank.
Alternative Cutting Methods
While a table saw is ideal for efficiency, you can get creative with your cutting methods. A circular saw with an angled guide jig lets you cut straight laps. For DIY hand tool enthusiasts, a miter box and backsaw will get the job done too.
Just ensure your technique results in smooth, symmetrical joints. Consistency is key so your boards fit tightly together during installation.
Prepping and Sanding the Boards
Once cut, it's time to get your shiplap boards installation-ready. Run boards over a jointer to flatten any warped edges. Sand down the faces, sides, and laps removing saw marks and splinters.
Work your way up grits from coarse to fine for a smooth sanded surface. Wipe away dust and use wood filler to patch any imperfections or knots. Let dry completely then sand again for a flawless finish.
Priming boards before installation allows the shiplap to expand and contract evenly over time. A quality primer also enhances wood grain and gives a uniform base for paint.
Installation
Wall Prep
Start by ensuring your wall's surface is clean, smooth, and ready for shiplap. Find stud locations and mark them for aligning nails or screws during installation. Plan your layout based on your room's dimensions and outlet placement.
Consider leaving a 1/2 inch gap along the ceiling and floor to allow your boards room to expand and contract. Pre-drill holes for nails to prevent wood splitting.
Hanging the Boards
Begin fastening your starter row of shiplap at the bottom, ensuring it's perfectly level. Use spacers like coins between the lap joints to create consistent spacing and prevent buckling.
Work methodically up the wall, nailing or screwing each board into studs. Check with your level frequently to keep planks straight. Have someone help hold boards while fastening for easier alignment.
Stagger seams randomly from row to row. Apply wood glue for an extra-secure hold. Continue until you reach the top and enjoy the texture of your handsan shiplap wall.
Finishing Touches
Fill any cracks with matching wood filler then caulk along the top, bottom and edges for a seamless look. Consider trim like baseboard, chair rail, or picture ledges to frame the shiplap.
Sand lightly then apply your preferred protective finish - a natural wood oil, matte varnish, or paint color that accentuates those beautiful planks. Your DIY shiplap wall is complete and ready to enjoy for years.
Decorating with Shiplap
Shiplap brings natural flair to many interior design styles like farmhouse, rustic, industrial, and craftsman. Mixing materials like exposed brick, wood beams, and metal hardware creates an eclectic aesthetic. Introduce eye-catching contrast with your wall color or decor accents.
Display floating shelves, sconces, and artwork directly on your shiplap background. Layer in woven textures, earthy ceramics, and vintage finds to enhance the handmade charm. Your personalized decor will reflect the unique character only a DIY shiplap wall can bring to a space.
FAQ
What size boards should I use?
The most popular shiplap board width is 6 inches. But sizes range from 4 to 8 inches based on preference. Wider boards make a bolder statement while narrow widths feel more delicate and traditional.
How do I cut plywood safely?
Have the store make the initial cuts when purchasing sheets of plywood. This leaves you with safer, smaller boards to work with. Clamp boards down securely and take it slow to control your saw on the final cuts.
Ring shank nails offer the strongest hold in shiplap boards. For added strength, you can also use an adhesive construction glue along with nails.
You can make beautiful, custom shiplap planks with the right tools and materials. Just take your time and savor the carpentry process - those rustic boards will be so rewarding to install and enjoy for years to come.