Steps: 1.Aluminum lithographic plates (figure A) are used on the wall. These plates, available free from print shops, are recycled and come in large sheets. Use tin snips to cut into the pattern of your choice. You can also use metal flashing or any type of lightweight metal sheeting for this project.2. When cutting these plates, always cut on a stable surface, use a straightedge and a utility knife and make sure to wear heavy work gloves, as the cut edges will be very sharp. Have patience when cutting this type of metal, since it is very tough to cut.
3. Using a straightedge, draw a pencil line 1" up from the bottom edge and across the horizontal length of the plate. The pencil line will act as a template line for the next metal pieces. They will slide under the top piece of metal and stop at the pencil line, creating a shingled look.
4. Use contact cement on each of the four corners to initially hold the metal panels in place on the wall (figure B).
5. When the panels are on the wall (figure C), use decorative upholstery tacks to anchor the panels to the wall (figure D). The tacks act as a design feature on the metal and can be used to create any pattern you prefer.6. MEK is used to remove fingerprints and smudges from the metal. Make sure the room is well ventilated and use gloves to protect your hands.
7. To add texture and a design element to the wall, use a medium-coarse grade of steel wool to make large circles on the metal panels. You can vary the pattern to suit your room: circles are used here to follow the circle theme of the rug that will be added later.
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