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What Colors Do I Need to Make a Cheetah Print Wall?

Prints, rather than solid colors, can add significant interest to a room. A cheetah print can be a complicated but attractive pattern that can be done with a little thought and preparation. However, before you can begin painting, you must choose the right colors, especially if you are looking to create a natural or realistic-looking cheetah print.
  1. Base Color

    • The base color of a cheetah can vary in color, which can make finding the right shade easier. According to the Museum of Zoology at the University of Michigan, the base color of a cheetah is tawny in color but may be a pale bluff or grayish white color. The underside of the cheetah tends to be white. For an unusual effect, the base color can be gradually faded downward into white on the wall, creating an even more realistic look.

    Spot Colors

    • The spots of a cheetah are naturally black, though for painting a wall, dark brown may also be appropriate. In size, a cheetah’s spots can be as small as three-quarter inch to one and a half inches in diameter. Their spots should not be confused with the spots of a leopard, which are shaped like a ‘C’ and contain an inner third color.

    Alternative Coloring

    • Though natural colors are the most realistic when creating a cheetah print wall, any colors can be used. If the cheetah print wall is for a teenager’s room, pair vibrant colors such as hot pink and turquoise or lime green and hot pink. For a more toned-down look, pale colors such as a baby blue with a darker shade for the spots can also be visually pleasing.

    Tips and Tricks

    • Always wipe down the wall entirely with a mild soap mixture to remove any dirt, debris and cobwebs from the wall. Allow the wall to dry before painting it using the base color. Once the base color has been applied, allow it to dry thoroughly before adding the cheetah spots to the design.