How to Install a Removable Decal Accent Wall in Your Nursery

Hi y’all! Today we’re going to talk about how to make an accent wall out of removable wall decals in your nursery (or any room in your home). This was a super easy DIY, no power tools needed. AND, it’s renter-friendly! So, if you have an hour or two of free time and a room that needs a little pizazz, check out this wall decal tutorial!

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Supplies Needed

• Removable Decal (I bought this super cute teal palm tree one from Etsy)
• Large level
• Painters Tape
• Measuring Tape
• Step stool
• Scissors
• Wallpaper Smoother
• Sharpie

Step 1: Choosing Your Decal & Measuring Your Space

The very first step in installing a removable wall decal accent wall for your nursery is to choose your decal. Since I was hoping for a tropical/coastal vibe, but didn’t want it to be too overwhelming, I went with a small simple palm tree in a repeating pattern. I kept the wall white, so the teal palm trees would pop out and create the feature wall I was hoping for.

Once you choose your decal (and before you order it), measure your wall and plan out the spacing of your decals.

Now, I didn’t make marks on my wall or anything at this point. I just kinda guesstimated that 5-6 decals every 18 inches or so would make a good pattern, and luckily that was how many came in my order.

But, if you want to be more precise, feel free to skip to Step 4 and mark out your decal spots to ensure you order enough of them.

Step 2: Purchase Your Supplies

Ok, once you have a rough idea how many decals you need, go ahead and purchase your decals and any other supplies you may need.

Step 3: Prep Your Wall Space & Decals

Now, if you need to paint your wall, do that now. I painted my wall white, and then I let it sit for a few days before applying the decals. I think the paint I used recommended waiting at least 24 hours before applying anything to it.

And, since I was super pregnant and chasing a toddler at the time, that quickly stretched to the next weekend.

And, go ahead and cut out your decals in this step. Don’t be super precise. You’re just looking to get them into pieces that are easier to work with.

Step 4: Mark Out Your Decal Spots

Ok, let’s get down to business! Time to apply your removable wall decals to your nursery accent wall!The first step is to mark out your decal spots on your wall. This is easily the hardest step, and it’s just hard because you want to mark the places correctly.

You’ll need your large level, painters tape, a sharpie, and measuring tape for this step.

First: Measure Out the Spacing on Your Level and Mark it with a Sharpie

I know this sounds a little odd, but it’ll make placing your marks on the wall so much easier.

If you have different spacing going lengthwise and width wise for the decals, make marks for both on your level.

Next: Mark the center of each row of decals on the top of the wall with painters tape.

This will help you easily identify where to start your row of decals, as well as easily see the spacing, in case you need to adjust things.

Then: Plot Out Your Decals Using the Measurements on the Level and Marking With Painters Tape

This is where marking the level itself comes in super handy. Now you’re just moving the level to mark your spots, while also making sure they are level at the same time (instead of juggling a tape measure and a level together).

I marked my spots with painters tape since my decals were so delicate. I didn’t want pencil marks visible, or to have to worry about the eraser making marks on my freshly painted white walls.

Instead of painters tape, you can also go ahead and just use painters tape to apply your decals to the wall temporarily, to get a better visualization of the spacing.

Step 5: Apply Your Decals

Ok, once you have the wall marked for your decals, you are all set to start applying them!

If you haven’t already, now’s a good time to use painters tape and tape your decals up, just to triple check that you like the spacing. I did this for each row as I was working my way across the wall.

Now, go ahead and remove the backing paper for your first decal.

Place the decal in the position you want it in on the wall.

One you’re happy with the positioning, use your wallpaper smoother and smooth out the decal to make sure it sticks well. And, using the smoother will remove any bubbling on the wall decal.

Then, remove the transfer tape (the clear paper on top of the decal). I found it best to remove the transfer paper at a 45 degree angle (not up or down, or side to side). And, remove it slowly so if some of it starts to pull up, you can correct it quickly.

Done!

Now, repeat the same process for the rest of your decals!

Voila! New Room, Who Dis?

That’s it! A super easy project to add a great accent wall with removable wall decals to your nursery (or any other room in y our home)!

What do you think? Easy-peasy? Renter friendly? Kid friendly?Let me know what you think!

Have Questions? Looking for Beginner Friendly DIYs?

Check out our posts on How to Create an Artwork Gallery Wall, How to Replace a Door Knob, and How to Install Cordless Faux Wood Blinds !

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Last but not least, please review our Disclaimer before completing any project we describe here.