Here’s How to Create a Trompe l’'œil Shelf Table

We love a perfectly styled room, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t space for the imperfect and playful in our homes. In fact, who isn’t in the mood for a little whimsy these days? This fun Trompe l’'œil painting project is all of that and more. It’s a DIY that’s easy to execute with just a few materials, a little imagination and a can of paint. The visual trickery gives a simple shelf serious panache and provides a whimsical way to spruce up an empty corner or wall in your home. You get storage, display potential and one-of-a-kind style!

What You’ll Need* :

Supplies

Floating Shelf
BeautiTone Paint

Tools

Projector (optional)
Stencil (optional)
Level
Paint Brush
Pencil
Tape Measure
Drill
Drop Cloth

* Our full assortment of building supplies is available at Home Building Centre and Home Hardware Building Centre locations. To unlock our catalogue of building supplies online, please select your local Building Centre.

Here’s How

For this project, we’re using a basic floating shelf that comes with its own hanging hardware. We also kept our Trompe l’'œil painting simple by sticking to a single colour, but feel free to improvise and expand your paint palette as you wish.

Steps:

1. Assemble all the materials and tools for your project.

2. Measure and mark the location for your floating shelf. Use a level and mark the two end points.

3. Using a projector, project and then trace your desired table design onto the wall. (If not projecting a pattern or template, you can also use your own original design and make a freehand drawing).