How to paint an ombre wall with Dulux Colour of the Year 2024

The technique of painting subtle gradients of colours that blend effortlessly from one to another is called colour flow or ombre. A colour flow feature wall is a great way to use different colours in one room. Do it freehand in 6 simple steps and be left with a cool, contemporary, and eye-catching look.



WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
Tin of each of your chosen paint colours. Paint stirrers. 3x small rollers and tray. 3x medium-size, wide paint brushes with synthetic fibres.
1x small paint brush (optional). Tape measure. Pencil. Scissors. String. Chalk. Masking tape. Paint tin opener. Gloves.



HOW TO:
Step 1: Measure and mark
Using a tape measure and pencil, mark the halfway point on the wall.

Step 2: Make a guideline
Cut a long length of string and, using masking tape, stick either end to the edge of the wall at the height of your pencil mark. Cover the string with chalk and ping it against the wall to make a horizontal chalk guideline. 

Step 3: Start painting
Using a roller, paint the top half of the wall in the Dulux Colour of the Year, Sweet EmbraceTM.

Step 4: Apply your second colour
While the first colour is still wet, apply a wide band of the second colour underneath. Here, we used a soft ochre from the Uplifting Dulux Colour of the Year palette to complement Sweet EmbraceTM.

Step 5: Blend the colours
While both colours are still wet, use a criss-cross motion to blend the colours together. You’ll need to work quickly with two brushes, blending upwards and downwards simultaneously for a smooth effect. Blend upwards with one hand, lightly brushing the bottom colour into the top section. Blend downwards with the other hand, lightly brushing the top colour into the section underneath. Practice this technique on paper or cardboard beforehand, to build your confidence before attempting it on the wall.

Step 6: Paint and blend again
Using a roller, paint the bottom section of the wall in your third colour up to the painted section, and blend the second and third colours. Use a soft brush to feather the edges.

DULUX LOOKBOOK
Dulux Colour of the Year 2024

For over 20 years, our colour experts have been translating global trends into a Colour of the Year that captures the mood of the moment.

Sweet EmbraceTM
A kind, delicate tone that brings a feeling of positivity to our lives, inspired by the softness of feathers and evening clouds. As well as being a warm and practical standalone shade, it’s also a great foundation colour that’s ideal for combining with many other shades. Subtle and sophisticated, it takes on different tones in different lights, bringing warmth to northfacing spaces and softness to sunlit rooms.



Test the shades of Sweet EmbraceTM in your home with a Dulux Colour Tester



For more ombre wall inspiration and photos for the step-by-step guide visit
https://www.dulux.co.za/en/colour-inspiration