I am pretty sure you have heard of this word before, perhaps in the Cosmo or Glamour magazine?
Ombre is a technique took the hair world by storm a couple of years ago, describing the process where hair is gradually lightened from root to tip. For those not familiar with the term, the word Ombre is derived from the French word Ombre’ which means ‘to shade.’ Basically the premise of the Ombre is to gradually lighten. Ombre has gained a lot more popularity since hitting the hair scene and has morphed across into fashion, beauty (Ombre nails anyone?) and of course interiors.
I love Ombre on anything with length or height so that you can really appreciate the graduating colour. I also love a feature wall.
So today I thought I would share some tips on how to create your own Ombre feature wall. (Did that just sound like Suzelle?)
What You’ll Need
Paint
For best results it is recommended to use 3 shades to blend. I would also recommend that you stick to shades within the same colour (eg. Blues) or else colours that would blend nicely together. (eg. White, Grey, Blue) You cant Ombre colours on opposite sides of the colour wheel….
Supplies
- Tape measure
- Paint roller
- Paint tray
- Wide paintbrush
- Masking tape
Get Started: Paint and Blend
1.Paint a Base Coat
For best results, wipe down or dust the wall you are going to paint. Choose the lightest shade of paint and begin by painting the entire wall this color. Don’t skip this step: This will give your other colors a fresh base of paint to go over, making a smooth, even surface for blending. Let it dry.
2.Divide the Wall Into Sections
To achieve an ombre look, measure three equal sections on your wall and mark lightly in pencil. The top section will be the lightest color. The darkest color goes at the bottom, leaving the third color for the center.
3.Start With Medium in the Middle
Paint the middle section with the second-lightest color, leaving about half a ruler (150mm) of room between the edges of each section. In a timely manner, hold a dry brush at a 45 degree angle to blend.
4.Apply the Darkest Hue at the Bottom
Paint the darkest hue at the bottom of the wall, leaving a foot between color sections.
5.Mix a New Color
In a fresh paint liner, mix your lightest color and your middle shade at a ratio of half and half. Use this first new color blend to paint the gap between the lightest and middle color. Taking a dry brush and holding it at an angle, quickly blend up until you meet the next color section.
6.Mix the Second New Color
In a fresh paint liner, mix your darkest color and your middle shade at a ratio of half and half. Use this second new color blend to paint the 150mm gap between the darkest and middle color. Taking a dry brush and holding it at an angle, quickly blend up until you meet the next color section. Continue to brush the three sections together until you achieve the level ombre you desire.