How to Create an Accent Wall with Wood

A wood accent wall adds warmth, texture, and natural beauty that no paint or wallpaper can replicate. Whether you choose shiplap, reclaimed wood, a geometric wood pattern, or a modern wood slat design, a wood accent wall becomes the defining feature of any room. Here's how to create one.

What You'll Need

• Peel-and-stick shiplap wallpaper: CiCiwind Peel and Stick Shiplap Wallpaper, White, 78.7"x17.7"
• Wallpaper smoothing tool: Art3d Smoothing Tool Kit for Peel and Stick Wallpaper
• Miter saw: SKIL 10" Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
• Brad nailer: Metabo HPT Brad Nailer 18 Gauge NT50AE2
• Finish nails: Mr. Pen Nail Assortment Kit, 600 Pcs
• Stud finder: Stud Finder Wall Scanner 5-in-1
• Laser level: Laser Level Line Tool by AikTryee
• Construction adhesive: Loctite PL Premium Construction Adhesive
• Caulk gun kit: Professional Caulk Gun Kit 5-in-1
• Silicone caulk: GE Advanced Silicone Caulk, Clear
• Wood filler: BONCART Wood Filler White, Paintable
• Double-sided tape: ZMUAXUAN Nano Double Sided Tape Heavy Duty

Popular Wood Accent Wall Styles

• Shiplap: Horizontal planks with a small gap. Farmhouse and coastal. Very popular.
• Reclaimed wood: Weathered, rustic planks with natural variation. Warm and characterful.
• Wood slat wall: Thin vertical or horizontal strips with gaps. Modern and architectural.
• Herringbone pattern: Planks arranged in a V-pattern. Bold and geometric.
• Peel-and-stick wood wallpaper: Easiest option — realistic wood look, no tools required.

Method 1: Peel-and-Stick (Easiest)

Use CiCiwind Peel and Stick Shiplap Wallpaper for a realistic wood look with zero tools. Use the laser level to mark a level starting line. Peel the backing, align at the top, and smooth with the Art3d smoothing tool. Work strip by strip across the wall. Trim edges with a sharp knife.

Method 2: Real Wood Planks

Step 1: Find the Studs

Use the stud finder to locate and mark all wall studs. Mark from floor to ceiling so you can nail into studs at any height.

Step 2: Establish a Level Line

Use the laser level to mark a perfectly level starting line at the bottom of the wall (or at your chosen starting height).

Step 3: Cut and Install

Cut planks to length with the SKIL miter saw. Apply construction adhesive to the back and nail into studs with the Metabo HPT brad nailer. Use a coin as a spacer between rows for consistent gaps. Stagger end joints between rows.

Step 4: Finish

Fill nail holes with BONCART wood filler. Caulk edges with GE silicone caulk. Apply a clear topcoat for natural wood, or paint for a painted wood look.

Pro Tips

• Paint the wall behind the wood the same color as the wood before installing — gaps look intentional rather than unfinished.
• Acclimate real wood in the room for 48–72 hours before installation to prevent warping.
• Mix plank widths for a more organic, reclaimed-wood look.
• A wood accent wall looks stunning with warm Edison bulb lighting — plan your lighting before installing.
• For a herringbone pattern, use the SKIL miter saw set to 45 degrees for all cuts.