🪚 DIY Shaker Wainscoting Tutorial – Weekend Woodworking Project Under $100

June 14, 2024
Posted by Philip Miller

Want to add character and depth to your walls without breaking the bank? In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll show you how to build and install beautiful Shaker-style wainscoting for around $100 using simple tools and materials. This is the perfect weekend DIY woodworking project for upgrading any room in your home.

Whether you're renovating a living room, bedroom, or hallway, this project will help you improve your space—and give you hands-on experience with installing baseboards and wall trim.

🔨 Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
🕒 Estimated Time: One Weekend
💲 Estimated Cost: ~$100

📹 Step 1: Watch the Build Video

Before you start, watch my full build video on YouTube to follow along and see how I tied this project into existing trim work. Perfect for visual learners!

📏 Step 2: Measure Your Wall

Simple layout formula:

Measure wall length (e.g., 120" for a 10 ft wall)
Choose the number of panels (I used 5)
Divide length by number of panels → 120 ÷ 5 = 24"

This gives you the spacing for your vertical shaker slats. Be sure to align the center of each slat with the center of your measurement line.

🪵 Step 3: Cut & Install Baseboards

Start by removing any existing baseboards. I used a 1x8 primed wood board to create a solid foundation for the wainscoting.

Attach your 1x8 using a brad nailer
Carefully miter corners (45° cuts) for clean transitions
Remember: baseboard may terminate near door trim—angle ends for a professional look

📐 Step 4: Install Vertical Shaker Slats

For added depth, I used ½" MDF sheets instead of standard ¾" boards. MDF is ideal for painted projects and cuts cleanly on a table saw.

Tips:

Use a scrap piece to set your table saw fence
Cut slats to uniform height using a miter saw
Stack and cut multiple slats at once for efficiency

🎨 Step 5: Prep & Paint

Before painting:

Fill all nail holes with wood putty
Caulk gaps for a seamless finish
Sand smooth and wipe off dust

Use a quality paint (I used Emerald Eggshell White) and apply with a brush and roller. Painting takes about 30 minutes and really makes the project pop!

✅ Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Project

This DIY Shaker wall paneling project is:

Low cost – Around $100 total
Beginner friendly – Straight cuts and simple measurements
High impact – Adds visual interest and architectural detail
The hardest part? Matching existing trim if you're extending wainscoting. Take your time, use a cordless brad nailer for speed and safety, and always follow shop safety best practices.