How to Make Padded Wall Panels

Measure your wall to determine panel dimensions. Place one panel over the entire area or several smaller panels spaced out or butted up against one another, for instance. Write down your measurements.

Cut a piece of thin plywood, sturdy foam or upholstery board to your desired dimensions.

Cut a piece of foam batting as thick as you'd like your wall panel. Thinner panels can be subtle and sleek, while thicker ones create a lush or cozy look.

Purchase upholstery fabric for your panel. Textured material creates depth and adds texture to a room, while smooth material can create a sleek or casual effect, depending on the color or print.

Cut the fabric to your measured dimensions, adding about 1 1/2 inches to each side, as well as the thickness of the foam batting. Wash and iron your fabric before using.

Lay the fabric face down on a large, clean and smooth work surface. Measure and mark 1 1/2 inches from each edge inward.

Lay the foam batting piece atop the fabric, centering it and measuring to check. Lay the panel board on top, checking that its edges sit flush with the batting edges.

Tug slightly on the top of the fabric without shifting it, pulling it up and over the batting and panel. Staple it in the center of the panel to secure. Repeat this step with the opposite side, then the adjacent sides. Adjust and tug slightly as you work to keep the fabric taut and smooth.

Staple from the center outward on the top side of the panel. Repeat this step with the bottom side, then the two adjacent sides. Check for smoothness as you go. Remove and restaple any trouble spots where puckering or wrinkles appear.