Step 1: When choosing the colors for a project, it is very important to experiment with different shades of off-white and gray. The basecoat that covers the entire wall before you begin must be an off-white because your final highlight is done by using a bright white paint. (#7 on diagram A)

Step 2: Assess the area for measurements. Measure the entire length of the wall under the chair rail to determine how many panels will fit on each section of wall. There should be 4" between each panel, as well as between each panel and the baseboard and chair rail (diagram C).

Step 3: Once the number of panels is decided, use the level and pencil to draw in the entire outer section of each square panel.

Step 4: After the outer lines of each panel are drawn in, you will measure inward from these outer lines to get the precise shape. There will be a total of three more squares to be drawn inside the original. Use a level and tape measure to draw the inner lines as folows: 3/4" from outer line, 1 3/4" from second line, and 1/4" from third line (diagram B).

Step 5: Once the panel sketch is complete, each area needs to be taped off and painted. Each area is painted in numerical order. Tape off all sections of each faux panel. Follow the color scale (diagram A and Paint Colors), the hues going from lightest to darkest are as follows: Lightest 7,1,5 then 6,4,3 and 8 darkest. The only shading to be done is on piece #5 on diagram A. The area is to be shaded from top to bottom, light down to dark, with a dark line above the light portion. By this time, the first panel you painted will be ready for you to move on to the next section (#2 diagram A). Continue with each section in order until the panel is complete.