The Pros and Cons of a DIY Board and Battan Project

Living in a basic builder grade home in suburbia can be quite interesting for me as a designer because as a desiger, all I see are potential design projects.

There’s so much to do and so little time!

Our master bedroom was the first and only room that has some interest with baseboards and window casings. The rest of the home is still naked with no finishes.

Adding Architectural Character

Image Credit: Marise Vitale Photography

In my last post, I discussed my design and storage woes with the younger two girls’ shared bedroom.

Their toys and clutter is still everywhere!

My youngest daughter still lovingly plays with the every toy and treasures every single one.

Maybe it’s because she’s my baby, but I just don’t have the heart to throw it all out in one fell swoop like I would have with the older two.

So as I racked my brain on how to add more storage but not add heavy furniture (been there, done that) then I also started thnking about adding architectural interest to their room as well.

This article by Emily Henderson on adding architectural interest with walls was very helpful.

And another one on Millwork by my friend Room For Tuesday’s Sarah Gibson gave me much food for thought. Mainly on her disdain for DIY attempts at moulding. I immediately laughed out loud.

In all seriousness though, I learned a great deal from her article. Definitely a great read!

Shh..don’t tell her I am going to try Board and Battan DIY style anyways. Our secret mmkay?

Basic Board and Battan 101

Usually I am a jump into the pool with my clothes in kind of gal. Go big or go home. That’s me.

But I am happy to report adulting has taught me to take time and understand and prep for a big project.

Here are some basic Board and Battan pros and cons before jumping into this project.

Pros

The most significant advantage of installing moulding yourself is the the savings. You can keep those big bucks for the rest of your house.

Another advantage in a DIY is the personal satisfaction that you personally created a finished statement for the room.

Cons

If you have never touched carpentry or a DIY before, this may not be a good first endeavor. The biggest hurdle for moulding is being sharp in math and measurements. And then having experience in cutting and mitering all the corners and fitting the edges perfectly.

I can’t tell you how many times I was very close to putting crown moulding in myself and whether it be a friend or handy man, they told me I wasn’t ready.

Problem is, you can’t tell me I can’t do it. It will make me want to do it more, ha!

I am realistic though. Crown moulding is hard. Board and Battan fits my skill level better.

But even so, having a mentor or someone experienced to guide me on this first time project still would be helpful. Even if it is YouTube vids.

A few examples

Now for the part you have been waiting for! Here are some board and battan ideas that have inspired me!

Image Credit: Room For Tuesday

I love how Sarah has used moulding details even on closet doors! Add the brass knobs and this classic, clean visual would *almost* make me want to re-organize my messy closet inside.

Image Credit: Studio McGee

This mudroom has all the right details. Brick flooring, vintage rug, black door and of course the ultimate architecture detailing for walls. All the board and battan you could wish for!