Christa Sinclair
June 2025
DIY French Panel Wall with Fusion Mineral Paint
A weekend project to add soft architecture and timeless charm to your space
Some updates feel like a total transformation. This one felt like a gentle unfolding—like the room slowly became what it was always meant to be.
We’ve always had a thing for French-inspired paneling. There’s something about the symmetry, the softness, the way the light shifts across each frame. It’s architectural, yes—but never loud. Just quietly beautiful.
So one weekend, we decided to bring that magic into our studio. Armed with a nail gun, a miter box saw, and a little patience, we created a paneled wall that instantly gave the room warmth, structure, and soul.
Our Vision
We were craving a detail that felt refined but lived-in. Elegant, but not precious. French paneling checked every box—especially when paired with the dreamiest paint color: Fusion Mineral Paint in Limestone.
It’s warm and creamy, not too white, not too beige. The kind of tone that adds depth without stealing attention. It made the trim pop in the softest, most romantic way.
What We Used
Materials:
• 1” x 2” MDF trim boards (cut to size)
• Fusion Mineral Paint in Limestone
• Nail gun + finishing nails
• Miter box saw (for precise angled cuts)
• Painter’s tape
• Measuring tape + level
• Wood filler & Caulk
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Angled paint brush + small roller
Cost:
Approx. $200
Time:
One weekend (or a month if you work like us)
The Process
1. Plan your layout.
We taped out the entire design directly on the wall using painter’s tape. This helped us adjust spacing, frame size, and overall flow before making a single cut.
2. Cut trim using a miter box saw.
For the cleanest, most professional-looking corners, we used a miter box saw to cut our trim at 45-degree angles. It was simple, satisfying, and gave our paneling that polished, built-in feel.
3. Nail it down.
We installed each piece of trim using a nail gun. Quick, clean, and secure. There’s something incredibly gratifying about this part—it comes together fast.
4. Fill + sand.
We filled all nail holes and seams with wood filler, let it dry, and sanded the edges smooth. It’s the little touches that make the whole wall feel custom.
5. Paint it pretty.
Fusion Mineral Paint in Limestone went on beautifully. Two coats gave us full, velvety coverage. We used a brush for cutting in around the trim and a small roller for the panels. The finish? Soft and subtle with a rich, lived-in texture.
The Result
This wall feels like it’s always been there. It gave our space structure and softness all at once. The room feels taller, calmer, more layered. Exactly the kind of everyday beauty we’re always chasing.
And the best part? It’s a project that’s absolutely doable. With a little prep and the right tools, you can recreate this look in a weekend.
Want to Try It?
We’ve created a downloadable checklist and sketch to help you plan your layout. You can also shop Fusion Mineral Paint in Limestone [here].
Tag us if you try it—we love seeing your take on these simple, soul-filled upgrades.
- Christa
from the Clementine studio, where the walls tell quieter stories now
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