Learn Mural Painting with Free Lessons & Tips

When painting smooth ceilings, the best strategy is to roll parallel with the main source of natural light, such as a big window, as it helps prevent roller lines. If you roll perpendicular to the dominant light source, the roller lines can form a slight shadow. The same applies when spraying.

These murals can draw visitors to a particular neighbourhood or area, leading to increased foot traffic and potential economic benefits for local businesses. Such revitalisation of areas through art has been observed in various cities around the world, helping to boost tourism and supporting local economies.

It starts by applying a gesso layer to prime the area to be painted. The area is then chalked out with a numbered grid, which is used to translate the scaled down image design to the mural site. Finally the mural is painted using the glaze painting technique, which uses multiple layers of paint to create the image.

They are often a symbolic representation of the activities of the time, to encourage a common social identity. In Northern Ireland these murals have been painted to enact social change for the last century, from Ulster Unionists strengthening an orange identity in 1908 to the anti-Brexit images of today.

You need the pick the paint that's resistant to moisture and, if the precast wall is outside – which is often the case, choose one that can withstand constant sun exposure. You can either go for paints that are specifically designed for the outdoors or get an oil-based one, which is just as good.

To paint any mural, you'll need a variety of brushes—larger ones and smaller detail brushes in both flat-edged and chisel-tipped brushes are useful. Different brushes are necessary for enamel and acrylic latex paints. You may also need a sponge roller (and a paint tray) for covering larger surfaces with a single color.