Underwater Murals - Do-It-Yourself With These Simple Tips

What could be more tranquil than an underwater world? Murals that create the impression of being under the sea or beneath the surface of a lake or river can be perfect for a peaceful bedroom, a rustic beach cottage or a child's room. The water theme also goes well in bathrooms and can complement outdoor areas, for example, around a swimming pool. Here are some ideas and tips to stimulate your imagination.

Inspirations

There are many ways of achieving an 'underwater look', depending on the style you go for. A child's room may invite cartoon-style, whereas you will probably want a different look for a bathroom, living room or adult bedroom. Murals in a child's rooms will use different imagery. With 'Pirates of the Caribbean' popular with kids, you might want to depict shipwrecks and chests of sunken treasure. A humorous treatment works well in kids' rooms - and a bit of whimsy can be fun in the bathroom too.

In a living area the tranquil look that an aquarium creates can be simulated in paint. Tropical fish in bright colors, swimming through gently waving underwater grasses, can look exotic as well as peaceful. If fish aren't your thing, there are other options. A sea or riverbed strewn with delicate, pastel seashells can make for a subtle underwater scene that will go well in a variety of rooms. Remember too that your underwater mural doesn't have to be blue. Soft greens and even shades of brown can also create a relaxing ambiance.

For a bit of fun, you could experiment with trompe l'oeil painting. In a kid's room you could paint portholes which afford glimpses of a magical underwater realm. The room itself then 'becomes' a ship or submarine, which may appeal especially to boys. Little girls might like trompe l'oeil windows that give the impression of looking on to a sandy sea floor where mermaids frolic.

Mural Painting

Whichever design you choose you will be able to find a stencil to suit your needs. Reusable stencils, or transfers that allow you to mark a design on to the wall ready for painting, can make life much easier for those who lack confidence in their artistic skills.

You can also create a mural from a picture or photograph of your choice. Divide your image and your wall space into corresponding squares and trace out your design block by block, amplifying the scale and measuring to make sure you're on track - or use one of the computer programs that will do it for you.

The way to start painting your underwater vista is to mark out your 'horizon' or equivalent. You might have two zones: the sea or riverbed and the water above. Using a roller for a larger space, cover these areas in the desired background color(s). You can then get going on the details of shells and submerged rocks, as well as decorative touches such as light slanting through the underwater plant life.

Source : ezinearticles