Outdoor areas can be just as charming and attractive as indoor spaces, and there are many ways to create dynamic and livable rooms outdoors that you love spending time in. While artwork is a given in interior spaces for adding interest and character to walls, it’s often an overlooked element outdoors. Exterior walls, high fences, and garden separators are often missing out on a great opportunity to add art and décor that can bring in color and texture. Outdoor art can also direct the eye toward a focal point, draw you in, and help define spaces like nooks and outdoor seating areas. Painting an outdoor mural for your space may be easier than you think and can be done with a little preparation and some outdoor-friendly paint, making this an outdoor trend you will see a lot of. 

DIYers are showing off how they add interest to outdoor walls. In some cases, they create a stunning abstract design that sets a backdrop for wall-mounted planters. Not only does this give their patio a splash of color that echoes the shades found in other areas of the space, but it also gives the huge blank space above the outdoor sofa some interest and definition. A mural is a perfect alternative to large outdoor-friendly paintings, which can be expensive. A savvy way to incorporate art in your yard, the simple organic shapes anchor the space and give it a warm and whimsical feel that complements the furniture.   

To paint a simple outdoor mural, you will need brushes in various sizes and outdoor-friendly latex paint (house paint will work fine). The base of the mural will be the exterior color of your wall, so choose something that complements or contrasts nicely with that. Begin by laying out a drop cloth and marking off your desired design with a pencil. This could be organic shapes or more geometric ones created by hand or with straight edges. You could also use stencils to get more precise designs. Other great shape options include stripes, rectangles, arches, waves, blobs of color, and zig-zags. Or use leaves, flowers, botanical elements, or scrollwork for a more romantic look. The shapes make a great backdrop for other décor items along the wall, like planters or lighting sconces. Or use the paint to highlight other outdoor accents like sundials or hanging feeders. 

Once you have the design drawn, paint within the outlines, using a smaller brush to get into tight places like between planks or siding. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly and add a second or third coat. If necessary, add an outdoor UV-proof sealant to help protect the color’s vividness if it’s in a spot that’s exposed to weather and sunlight. Other fun elements like wall appliques, millwork pieces of wood, small mosaic segments, and tiles can be attached to the wall to add texture and greater dimensionality. Or give old dishes new life by creating three-dimensional glass flowers as stunning décor for a wall or fence as part of a mixed media mural.